Your Driving Test Advice
- Christopher Cook
- Nov 14, 2025
- 4 min read
Updated: Feb 7
A complete guide to presenting yourself well, preparing calmly, and giving yourself the best chance of success
The driving test is your opportunity to show that you are a safe, responsible, and capable driver. Think of it like a job interview. Arrive clean, fresh, and professionally dressed. First impressions matter, and how you present yourself can help set a positive tone for the rest of the test.
Below is a simple, clear guide that applies to anyone taking their test, no matter where you are in the country or which instructor you are learning with.
Before the Test
Morning checks
Check your emails to ensure there are no updates from DVSA such as examiner absence or bad weather cancellations.
Arrive in plenty of time so you are not rushing (do not enter the test centre parking until 5 minutes before your test - most have limited space and the previous candidates may be leaving).
Use the toilet at the test centre before your test begins if you need to.
Parking at the test centre
If you are using your own car or you are arriving early with your instructor, reverse bay park neatly within the lines. If the car is not straight, adjust it. Taking a moment to park properly creates a calmer start. You don’t want to lead your examiner to the only car that is not straight!!
Ask your instructor about support
Some instructors offer to sit in the back of the car during the test to observe how examiners mark and to support you afterwards with detailed feedback. It is always your choice. If it helps you feel more comfortable, say yes. If you would rather focus without anyone in the back, that is completely fine.
Meeting the Examiner
When the examiners come out, they will call your name. Offer a polite greeting with a simple “Good morning” or “Good afternoon.” A calm, friendly start always helps.
Have your provisional licence ready in your hand. Avoid rummaging through bags or pockets.
The examiner will check your details, confirm your email address, and ask you to sign their tablet. Sign your name as it is signed on your license!
Preparing Your Car
Whether you are using your instructor’s car or your own, make sure the vehicle is:
Clean inside and out. A tidy environment helps create a focused mindset.
In good working order:
– All lights and indicators working
– Washers and wipers topped up
– No warning lights
– Good tyre condition
Fitted with L plates at the front and back
Equipped with an interior mirror for the examiner
A slightly open window can help reduce condensation and keep the car feeling fresh, although the examiner may close it if needed.
What to Wear
Clean, fresh, and professionally dressed
You do not need to dress formally, but you should look neat and presentable. Smart casual works well. If doing your hair or wearing makeup helps you feel confident, go for it. Feeling good in yourself can make a real difference.
Keep it appropriate
Avoid clothing that is overly revealing or looks like you are heading for a night out. It will not influence the result, and it may make you feel uncomfortable during the drive.
Wear the right shoes
Your shoes have a huge impact on your control of the pedals.
Wear shoes you have driven in regularly.
Choose flat, secure footwear with thin, flexible soles.
Avoid heels, heavy boots, thick soles, flip flops, or sliders.
Consider sunglasses if it is bright
If the sun is strong, take a pair of sunglasses you have already driven in. They can make a massive difference to visibility, especially in low winter sunshine. Avoid heavy tints and oversized frames that reduce peripheral vision.
During the Test
Eyesight check
The test begins with reading a number plate. If you wear glasses or contact lenses, you must have them with you. Minor reading slips are usually fine, but you must meet the legal standard.
The “Tell Me” question
You will be asked a safety question before driving off. Learn all the “Tell Me” questions so you can answer confidently. A strong start helps settle your nerves.
Staying calm while driving
Keep your hands on the wheel and drive in the way you have practised.
If small talk helps you relax, feel free to chat politely. Examiners are usually friendly, but they are unlikely to be overly chatty because their focus is on assessing your driving. If the quiet is a problem you can have the radio on (or a pre-prepared playlist).
If you make a mistake, do not panic. Correct it if you can and move on. Many people pass with small faults.
If a satnav instruction seems unclear, the examiner will clarify it.
Going the wrong way is not usually a problem. If you find yourself trapped by other road users or in the wrong position, DO WHAT IS SAFEST!
Show a calm attitude
Be patient with other road users. Avoid visible frustration, sighing, or aggressive gestures. Examiners are assessing your attitude as well as your driving.
After the Test
When you pass
The examiner will ask for your provisional licence so they can start the process of upgrading it. Allowing them to do this makes things easy.
You will receive a certificate that allows you to drive immediately until your full licence arrives.
Celebrate. You earned it.
If you do not pass this time
Listen carefully to the feedback.
Ask questions politely if you do not understand something.
Do not argue. It will not change the result and you may meet the same examiner again.
Remember that thousands of people need more than one attempt. It is part of the learning process.
Final Driving Test Advice
Failing a test does not define you. It simply means you need a little more time to build the habits and consistency of a safe, independent driver. Passing is not about perfection. It is about showing that you can deal with everyday situations in a sensible and controlled way.
Good luck with your test. Arrive calm. Look prepared. Drive the way you have been taught. You are closer than you think - We hope you found this Driving Test Advice helpful.
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