Driving Tests - The Basics

In the United Kingdom, a driving test is taken by residents to prove their competence to be awarded a driving license (Northern Ireland or Great Britain). The tests can also be taken by licensed drivers who would like to add to their qualifications. For example, a licensed category B holder can take the test to be certified for other vehicle categories. The tests vary from one vehicle category to the other. what does the test involve and how much does it cost? what should you do to prepare for the test after driving lessons worcester?

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What does the test include?

The test is usually divided into two components: the theory and practical components. First, the candidate is expected to pass the theory test which usually has a pass rate of 51.9% on average. The test is further divided into two sections. The first is a multiple choice section where candidates must tackle 50 questions and get at least 43 questions right to pass for class B vehicles and 100 questions for bus and lorry drivers with an expected pass mark of 85 questions. This test takes around 57 minutes for class B and 115 minutes for Lorry and bus drivers and is administered on a computer. Those who would like to practice for the test have 15 minutes to do so while those who have special needs can apply for more time to take this test.

The second section of the theory test is the hazard perception test which tests the candidate's ability to identify hazards. The candidates watch fifteen one minute clips for class B and nineteen one minute clips for bus and lorry drivers and indicate where they perceive a hazard to be developing. The clips are filmed from the driver or motorist's perception. Once one passes this category, a certificate indicating that you passed the theory test is awarded and this is valid for two years. You must therefore take the practical test before the two year period elapses.

The practical test usually begins with an eyesight test whereby the candidate is requested to read out the number plates of the vehicle from a distance of 20 or 20.5 meters for new and old plates respectively. When spectacles are required to read the plates, the candidate must use spectacles during the test. Failure to read the number plates correctly after three trails leads to a fail. Such a candidate should take an eye test before taking the test again.

Over the next 38 to 40 minutes, a candidate takes a practical test guided by a certified trainer on a predetermined route. The test can be administered using a manual or automatic vehicle depending on the candidate's needs. The trainer checks for three categories of faults during a practical test. Dangerous faults, driving faults and serious faults. Accumulating dangerous or serious faults automatically results in a fail. A number of driving faults cumulatively make up a serious fault and therefore several driving faults may also lead to a fail.

How much does the test cost?

The theory tests usually costs around £23 for category B while the practical session costs around £62. These costs only cover the test but not the cost of the driving classes. If you fail, you are expected to pay the entire test fees again.

How to prepare

The first step is to ensure that you understand all types of road signs and the possible hazards that a driver can face in their day to day activities. You should also practice manoeuvring left, right and U-turns before the test. A lot of practice should go into safely reversing the car as this will also be tested. Remember that confidence is important for the test.