15 driving test tips to help you ace your test

Test day is everything that you've been working towards as a learner driver. Months of careful preparation boiled down to a 40 minute test. Every learner hopes to pass their test first time, and get on the road with that newfound sense of freedom as soon as possible.

And while some pass first time, many don’t, which is why we've put together this guide to give you the very best chance of acing it first time. From pre-test preparation to advice during the test, these tips are designed to help you prepare properly, avoid common mistakes, and give yourself the best possible chance of success.

What’s covered

• Preparation and planning
• Test day essentials
• Driving test technique and awareness
• Final thoughts

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Preparation and planning

1. Take enough lessons

The DVSA recommends around 47 hours of professional instruction and 20 hours of private practice. But this is only a guideline - some learners may need more time to practise, and others less. The key is to take the test when you feel test-ready and confident - rushing into your test too soon can lead to failure, extra costs, and a knock to your confidence.

Tip: Listen to your instructor - they know your strengths and weaknesses best. If they say you’re ready, trust them. If they suggest waiting, take their advice. At the end of the day, they want you to pass just as much as you do.

Also read: How many driving lessons do you need?

2. Know the Highway Code

It’s not the most thrilling read, but the Highway Code is essential. Many of its rules are legal requirements, and breaking them during your test could result in a serious fault.

Brush up on essentials like road signs, speed limits, and right-of-way rules to build your confidence before test day. You can either grab a physical copy, or use a theory test app, many of which have a copy of the highway included so you can learn on the go.

3. Learn to drive in all conditions

Sunshine is lovely, but it won’t always be there on test day. If you can, make sure you’ve driven in rain, fog, and at night too. Being confident in different conditions will help you stay cool and collected if the weather turns for the worst on test day.

4. Choose your test centre wisely

Some test centres have higher pass rates than others. This is due to a combination of factors, such as road type, traffic volume and test route complexity.

For example, rural test centres tend to have higher pass rates compared to urban test centres because they're usually quieter and less congested. So, if you have the flexibility, consider booking at a centre with simpler routes or less traffic.

Find out more here: Where are you most likely to pass your driving test?

5. Practise the test routes

Use your final lessons to drive around the area near your test centre. Your instructor will likely know which routes are commonly used, so use this time to get familiar with things like tricky junctions and roundabouts.

If you know the test routes well, you’ll give yourself a much better shot at passing.

6. Book a lesson before your test

A warm-up lesson on test day helps you settle into the driving mindset. It’s a chance to shake off the nerves, get into the flow, and remind yourself that you do, in fact, know how to drive.

7. Take a mock test with your instructor before the test

A mock test is one of the most effective ways to prepare for the real thing. It simulates the test conditions, helps you identify weak areas, and gives you a feel for what the examiner will be looking for.

Ask your instructor to run a full mock test, including manoeuvres, independent driving, and ‘Show Me, Tell Me’ questions. Treat it seriously, no feedback until the end, and use it to iron out any last-minute concerns.

Test day essentials

8. Bring everything you need

Don’t risk failing before you’ve even started. Make sure you bring:

• Your provisional licence

• Your theory test pass certificate

• Glasses (if you need them to drive)

• A valid passport (if your provisional licence is paper)

Remember: You must be able to read a number plate from 20 metres away. Fail the eyesight check and your test ends immediately.

9. Use the car you're most familiar with

Driving a car you’re familiar with gives you a huge advantage. Whether you've been having lessons and practising in your own car, or your instructor's, go with whichever you've spent the most time in. You’ll also know how the controls work, which will help with the ‘Show Me, Tell Me’ section of the test.

10. Take your instructor along

You’re allowed to bring someone with you during the test. If it will make you feel more relaxed, bring your instructor along. If you'd prefer to be alone with the examiner, that's fine too.

Many learners choose to bring their instructor for reassurance, and they can also provide useful feedback afterwards, especially if things don't go to plan.

Driving test technique and awareness

11. Watch out for common faults

The 6 most frequent reasons for failing include:

• Poor mirror checks

• Hesitation at junctions

• Inappropriate speed

• Failing to signal or cancelling signals

• Poor clutch control or stalling

• Coasting (keeping the clutch down too long)

Tip: Practise these areas until they become second nature. It should become muscle memory, even if your brain gets nervous.

12. Exaggerate your mirror checks

Make your mirror checks as obvious as you can by moving your head as you check. This will help demonstrate to the examiner that you’re being observant.

13. Ask your examiner to repeat instructions

If you don’t hear or understand something during the test, you’re allowed to ask the examiner to repeat it. Staying calm and clarifying instructions could save you from making a mistake.

14. Watch for pedestrians and cyclists

Examiners love to see you actively scanning for vulnerable road users, and will look for clear head movements to confirm observation. So keep an eye out for pedestrians and cyclists, especially at crossings and junctions.

15. Don’t assume you’ve failed

Remember: you’re allowed up to 15 minor faults, so if you make a mistake, stay calm and carry on. What you don't want to do is dwell on a mistake, as this could lead to more. Unless it’s a serious or dangerous fault (you'll know if that's the case), you’re still in with a chance.

Final thoughts

With the right preparation, a clear head, and a solid understanding of what the examiner is looking for, you’ll give yourself the best chance of success. Stay calm, trust your training, and remember, it's ok to not pass first time!

Next guide: Are you ready for your test? Your driving test checklist →