Your practical driving test questions answered

Having a driving test on the horizon can bring a lot of nerves and uncertainty. With so many rules, procedures, and myths floating around, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed.

If you're unsure about any aspect of the test, or have any burning questions, you're in the right place. We've put together a list of the most commonly asked driving test-related questions to help you feel extra confident on the day.

What's covered

• How do I book a driving test?
• How long is a UK driving test?
• How much does a driving test cost?
• When will I know if I passed?
• How to pass your driving test for the first time?
• Can I take my driving instructor or someone else in the car during the test?
• Can I ask the examiner questions during the test?
• What are the new DVSA changes to test rebooking and cancellations?
• What kind of faults are recorded during the test?
• How many faults are allowed in a driving test?
• What is the most common fail in a driving test?
• What's an instant fail in a driving test?
• Can you fail for driving too slowly?
• Is it an instant fail if you hit the curb?
• Can I drive immediately after passing my test?
• What does S and D mean on a driving test report?
• What is coasting in driving?
• Should I check all three mirrors every time?

Are you looking for learner driver insurance? Get in touch with us! A member of the Howden team would love to help you find the perfect policy!

Get a Quote

---

How do I book a driving test?

You can book your UK practical driving test through the official GOV.UK website. To book, you’ll need:

• Your provisional driving licence number

• A valid debit or credit card for payment

• Your theory test pass certificate number

Tip: Try to book as early as you can, because waiting times can be several months in some areas. You can also check for cancellations to get an earlier slot.

Find out more here: How to book your practical driving test in 2025

---

How long is a UK driving test?

The practical driving test typically lasts around 40 minutes. The test includes:

• Eyesight check (reading a number plate from 20 metres)

• ‘Show me, tell me’ questions

• General driving on different road types and traffic conditions

• One reversing manoeuvre (e.g., parallel park, bay park, or pull up on the right)

• 20 minutes of independent driving using a sat nav or following road signs

Don't get caught out. Sign up for your MOT reminder. Check MOT

---

How much does a driving test cost?

The cost of your driving test will depend on when you take it. On weekdays, it costs £62. For evenings, weekends, and bank holidays, it costs £75.

Also read: How much do driving lessons cost in the UK?

---

When will I know if I passed?

You’ll know the outcome of your driving test as soon as it’s over. The examiner will tell you whether you’ve passed or failed and go through any faults you made during the test. If you pass, you’ll receive a pass certificate right away, which means you can start driving immediately. Your new licence will be sent to you automatically within a few weeks.

---

How to pass your driving test for the first time?

Passing your driving test on the first attempt is all about preparation and confidence. Make sure you practise in a wide range of conditions, including different road types, traffic levels, and even weather if possible. Focus on the areas where learners most often fail, such as observations at junctions and correct mirror use.

Taking a mock test with your instructor is a great way to get used to the pressure of the real thing. On the day, stay calm, take your time, and remember that the examiner isn't trying to catch you out - they want you to pass!

For more tips, check out our guide: 15 driving test tips to help you ace your test

---

Can I take my driving instructor or someone else in the car during the test?

Yes, you’re allowed to have someone accompany you during the test, and most learners choose their driving instructor for reassurance. Alternatively, you can bring a friend or family member, provided they’re at least 16 years old. They must sit quietly in the back and cannot give you any help or advice during the test.

---

Can I ask the examiner questions during the test?

Absolutely, in fact clear communication is encouraged. You can ask the examiner to repeat or clarify directions if you didn’t hear them properly. They’re there to assess your driving, not to trick you, so don’t hesitate to speak up if you’re unsure about an instruction.

What they can’t do is guide you on how to drive or make decisions for you, so questions like “should I go now?” won’t get an answer.

---

What are the new DVSA changes to test rebooking and cancellations?

From 8 April 2025, you must give 10 full working days’ notice to change or cancel your car driving test without losing your fee (previously 3 days). This aims to reduce wasted slots and waiting times.

What kind of faults are recorded during the test?

During your test, the examiner records three types of faults:

• Driving faults (minors): Small mistakes that aren’t dangerous on their own, like missing a mirror check once.

• Serious faults (majors): Errors that could potentially cause danger, such as failing to check mirrors before changing lanes.

• Dangerous faults: Mistakes that actually put you or others at risk, like pulling out in front of oncoming traffic.

---

How many faults are allowed in a driving test?

You’re allowed up to 15 minor faults during your driving test, as long as they don’t add up to a pattern of unsafe driving. However, a single serious or dangerous fault will result in an automatic fail. Minor faults are small errors, like missing a mirror check once, whereas serious faults involve potential danger.

---

What is the most common fail in a driving test?

The number one reason learners fail is not making effective observations at junctions. In other words, not checking properly before pulling out. This often happens when drivers rush or assume the road is clear.

Other common fail points include poor mirror use when changing direction, incorrect positioning on the road, and lack of control when moving off.

---

What's an instant fail in a driving test?

An instant fail happens when you make a serious or dangerous mistake that could put you or others at risk. This includes things like running a red light, pulling out in front of oncoming traffic, or ignoring an examiner’s instruction that compromises safety. Even if you’ve driven perfectly up to that point, one major error means the test is over.

The most serious faults tend to happen when learners panic or act without checking properly.

---

Can you fail for driving too slowly?

Yes, driving too slowly can lead to a fault if it causes problems for other road users. While caution is good, being overly hesitant can create dangerous situations, especially on busy roads or roundabouts. The examiner wants to see that you can keep up with the flow of traffic safely.

---

Is it an instant fail if you hit the curb?

Clipping the curb lightly during a manoeuvre is usually marked as a minor fault, so it won’t automatically fail you. However, if you mount the curb with both wheels or do it in a way that could endanger pedestrians or damage the car, it will likely count as a serious fault and result in a fail.

---

Can I drive immediately after passing my test?

Yes, you can drive as soon as you’ve passed your test. The examiner will give you a pass certificate, and that’s all you need to get on the road legally. Your full driving licence will be sent to you by post, but you don’t have to wait for it to arrive.

After you pass, you'll need to check that your car is insured for you as a full licence holder, since your learner policy may no longer be valid.

Also read: Your guide to car insurance for 17 year olds

---

What does S and D mean on a driving test report?

On your driving test report, S stands for serious faults and D stands for dangerous faults. These are the major mistakes that will cause you to fail instantly. Minor faults are recorded separately, and you can have up to 15 of those.

If you see an S or D marked on your sheet, it means you didn’t pass this time. But you should still keep your report, as it's great tool for understanding what went wrong and what to work on for next time.

---

What is coasting in driving?

Coasting happens when you drive with the clutch pressed down or the car in neutral, meaning the engine isn’t engaged with the wheels. While it might seem harmless, it reduces your control over the vehicle, especially when braking or steering.

If it happens occasionally and doesn’t affect safety, it might just be a minor fault. However, if it becomes a habit or causes a dangerous situation, it could cost you the test.

---

Should I check all three mirrors every time?

Yes. Use the MSM routine (Mirrors, Signal, Manoeuvre) before any change in speed or direction. It’s one of the most common areas learners lose marks.

Next guide: What happens after I pass my driving test? →