Practical Test
In your practical test, you have 40 minutes to demonstrate everything you have learned in your driving lessons. You need to show you can drive competently and safely. You'll be asked to do 2 manoeuvers and possibly make an emergency stop. You'll also answer 2 vehicle check questions.
To pass, you will have to complete the test with no serious or dangerous faults, with 15 or fewer minor errors.
A weekday practical test costs £48.50. Evening or weekend tests cost £58.
Show & Tell / Safetey Questions & Answers
On your practical test you will be asked 2 questions, one will be a 'show me' question and the other will be a 'tell me' question.
'Tell me' questions
Q1: Open the bonnet, identify where you would check
the engine oil level and tell me how you would check that the engine has
sufficient oil.
A: Identify dipstick/oil level indicator, describe check
of oil level against the minimum/maximum markers.
Q2: Open the bonnet, identify where you would check
the engine coolant level and tell me how you would check that the engine
has the correct level.
A: Identify high/low level markings on header tank (where
fitted) or radiator filler cap, and describe how to top up to correct
level.
Q3: Identify where the windscreen washer reservoir is,
and tell me how you would check the windscreen washer level.
A: Identify reservoir and explain how to check level.
Check your car's manual to see how to do this.
Q4: Open the bonnet, identify where the brake fluid
reservoir is, and tell me how you would check that you have a safe level
of hydraulic brake fluid.
A: Identify reservoir, check level against high/low markings.
Q5: Tell me how you would check that the brake lights
are working on this car.
A: Operate brake pedal, make use of reflections in windows,
garage doors etc, or ask someone to help.
Q6: Tell me how you would check that the brakes are
working before starting a journey.
A: Brakes should not feel spongy or slack. Brakes should
be tested as you set off. Vehicle should not pull to one side.
Q7: Tell me where you would find the information for
the recommended tyre pressures for this car and how tyre pressures should
be checked.
A: Manufacturer's guide, use a reliable pressure gauge,
check and adjust pressures when tyres are cold, don't forget spare tyre,
remember to refit valve caps.
Q8: Tell me how you would check the tyres to ensure
that they have sufficient tread depth and that their general condition
is safe to use on the road.
A: No cuts and bulges, 1.6mm of tread depth across the
central ¾ of the breadth of the tyre and around the entire outer circumference.
'Show me' questions.
Q9: Show me/explain how you would check that the power-assisted
steering is working before starting a journey.
A: If the steering becomes heavy the system may not be
working properly. Before starting a journey two simple checks can be made.
Gentle pressure on the steering wheel, maintained while the engine is
started, should result in a slight but noticeable movement as the system
begins to operate.
Alternatively, turning the steering wheel just after moving off will give
an immediate indication that the power assistance is functioning.
Q10: Show me how you would check that the headlights
and tail lights are working.
A: Operate switch (turn on ignition if necessary), walk
round vehicle.
Q11: Show me how you would check that the direction
indicators are working.
A: Applying the indicators or hazard warning switch and
walking around the vehicle to check functioning of all indicators.
Q12: Show me how you would check that the horn is working
(off-road only).
A: Check is carried out by using the control (turn on
ignition if necessary).
Q13: Show me how you would check the parking brake for
excessive wear.
A: Demonstrate by applying parking brake that when it
is fully applied it secures itself, and is not at the end of the working
travel.
