Mock tests, what to expect on the day, common faults, how your test is marked and some top tips for your driving test day.

In the lessons leading up to your driving test, you'll be given the opportunity to take one or more mock driving tests with your instructor.

This will give a good indication on what areas you are performing well at and what areas you need to improve.

We'll also visit the Poole test centre and explore the immediate area around it.

On the day of the test, it is necessary to book at least a 2-hour slot with your instructor. This will allow enough time to get to and from the test centre and for a “warm up” drive maybe even to deal with any last-minute concerns.

The UK driving test lasts for around 40 minutes.

We’ll arrive at the test centre about 5 minutes before your test start time. We can choose to wait in the reception area, or wait with the car.

At your start time, you’ll meet your examiner, your test will commence. They will ask you if you would like your instructor to sit in the back during your exam, this is your choice.

You will start with an eyesight check by reading a registration plate 20 meters away.

The examiner will then ask you one “show me, tell me” question on vehicle safety.

Then you’ll be assessed on your general driving ability, by following the instructions given by your examiner. You’ll be asked one “show me” question on the move.

If you are unsure of where to go or need the examiner to repeat an instruction, just ask them.

If you take a wrong turn, for example, the examiner asks you to turn right and you turn left, don’t worry, as long as you make that left turn safely you won’t be marked as a fault, the examiner will just get you back on track.

During your test you will be asked to carry out one manoeuvre that involves reversing.

You’ll also be asked to demonstrate your independent driving capability using a pre-determined route in a Sat-Nav.

Your then be guided back to the test centre, where your examiner will tell you your result and give you a productive debrief you on any areas you can improve.

Top 10 Common faults

1. Not making effective observations at junctions.
2. Not using mirrors correctly when changing direction.
3. Not having proper control of the steering.
4. Incorrect positioning when turning right at a junction.
5. Not moving off safely.
6. Not responding appropriately to traffic lights.
7. Poor positioning in the road during normal driving.
8. Not responding correctly to traffic signs.
9. Not having control when moving off on slopes.
10. Exceeding the speed limit

Some top tips for your driving test

Treat your test like one of your driving lessons, remember your training and try to enjoy the drive.

Make sure you have at least had a snack and a drink before your test. Take a bottle of water with you if needed.

Being nervous is is very normal, some deep breaths will get oxygen to your brain and help you focus.

Your instructor and the examiner want the best outcome for you and will support you where they can.

Do what is safe, even if this means going the wrong way. Don't try to swerve dangerously into another lane just to stick to the route!

If you loose track of the speed limit, pick the slower option. Better to get a driving fault for driving too slow than a serious fault for driving too fast.

Take your time, it's not a race, your examiner understands you are a new driver and doesn't expect you to keep pace with experienced drivers.

If you need to make an adjustment during a manoeuvre, make it count, for example, if reverse bay parking, don't just go forward a few inches and shuffle back into the same place, go further and  make a proper adjustment.

Try not to look at the test as a pass or a fail, it's a process, you can always book another test and get more training if needed.

An unsuccessful result will no doubt cause negative emotions, rest assured, these are temporary, once you get home and lick your wounds, take time to reflect on you performance and work out what you need to do to resolve any issues. Take responsibility for learning. You'll bounce back stronger next time

A successful result is a relief, celebrate it, but appreciate this is when the real learning starts.

Your test is marked on the form below and further down this page are explainers to how your test will be marked. This provides a good insight to what the examiner is looking for. (please note not all sections will be used for your category B CAR driving test)