Driving test - what's required

The test is the same, wherever you take it. The time spent driving will be around 35 to 40 minutes, and the total time available is 57 minutes. Here's a brief run-down of the diiferent parts:

• Arrive at the test centre about ten minutes early. Not too early otherwise you might get in the way of the previous test. If you're with your instructor they'll make sure the timing is right.
• The examiner will greet you and check your documents. Take both parts of your licence - the photo card and the paper counterpart. Remember, no licence - no test.
  (Note: If you have an old style paper licence, you will need a current passport as well - no other form of photographic identification will be accepted.)
• Your eyesight will be checked - just read a number plate more than 20.5 metres away.
• Answer two show me, tell me questions.
• Drive around a varied route, including national speed limit roads.
• Park in a "safe and convenient" place at least twice.
• Park on a hill, and move off.
• Park near a parked vehicle, and move off.
• Do two reversing manoeuvres.
• One in three tests do an emergency stop.

The pass rate for the whole of the UK is around 43% - but different test centres vary. The pass rate in some urban areas can be lower than 30%, and in some remote areas it can be over 70%