Preparing for the UK practical driving test can feel overwhelming, especially with strict requirements, detailed checks, and specific rules every learner must follow. This 800-word guide breaks down everything you need to know — from eligibility to documents, vehicle rules, test sections, pass criteria, and costs — in a simple, structured, and easy-to-learn format.
Overview Table
| Requirement Category | Key Points | Who It Applies To |
|---|---|---|
| Eligibility | Must be 17+, valid provisional licence | All learners |
| Documents | Provisional licence, theory pass cert | Test-day applicants |
| Vehicle Rules | MOT, insurance, L-plates, roadworthy | Using own vehicle |
| Test Format | Eyesight check + 40 min driving | Manual & automatic |
| Pass Mark | Max 15 minors, no serious faults | All applicants |
| Fee | £62 weekday, £75 evening/weekend | UK-wide |
Full Guide: UK Practical Driving Test Requirements 2025
1. Eligibility Requirements
Before you can book the UK practical driving test, you must meet the essential eligibility rules:
- Age requirement: You must be at least 17 years old.
- Licence requirement: Hold a valid UK provisional driving licence.
- Theory test: You must have passed the theory test and it must still be valid (valid for 2 years).
- Medical fitness: You must meet the minimum eyesight and health standards to drive.
Learners with disabilities
- Can apply for special arrangements, such as extra time or adapted cars.
- Must meet medical rules set by DVLA for driving with medical conditions.
2. Required Documents for the Test Day
You must bring the following original documents on the test day:
Mandatory Documents
- UK Provisional Driving Licence (Photocard)
- Theory Test Pass Certificate
- Booking Confirmation (digital or printed)
If You Forget Documents
Your test may be cancelled, and you may lose your fee. DVSA does not allow the test to continue without proper documents.
3. Car Requirements for the Practical Test
You can use your instructor’s car or your own private vehicle, but the car must follow strict DVSA rules.
Essential Car Conditions
- Must be roadworthy and safe.
- Must have an MOT certificate (if older than 3 years).
- Must be properly insured for the test.
- Tyres must be legal (minimum 1.6mm tread).
- Must have working seat belts, mirrors, indicators, and lights.
Mandatory Vehicle Features
- Must display L-plates on the front and back.
- Must have an extra interior mirror for the examiner.
- Must be able to reach at least 62 mph and have a max speedometer in mph.
Cars Not Allowed
- Any vehicle with dashboard warning lights showing major issues.
- Convertibles with poor visibility.
- Unsafe or heavily modified vehicles.
4. What Happens During the Practical Driving Test
The UK practical driving test lasts 40 minutes and checks your real-world driving skills.
The Test Includes:
1. Eyesight Check
- You must read a number plate from 20 metres away.
- Failure = automatic test fail.
2. “Show Me, Tell Me” Questions
These safety questions check your understanding of car basics.
- Tell Me: Asked before you start driving (e.g., “Tell me how you’d check the brakes”).
- Show Me: Asked while driving (e.g., “Show me how you wash the windscreen”).
3. General Driving Ability
Covers different road types, including:
- Roundabouts
- Junctions
- Dual carriageways
- Traffic lights
- Residential streets
- Bus lanes (when allowed)
4. Manoeuvres (You will be asked to perform one)
- Parallel parking
- Pull up on the right and reverse
- Reverse bay parking
- Forward bay parking
5. Independent Driving
- Lasts 20 minutes.
- Follow sat-nav instructions or traffic signs.
- Not a memory test — you can ask the examiner to repeat instructions.
5. Test Grading: How You Pass or Fail
The examiner will check for:
Types of Faults
- Driving Faults (Minor mistakes): Up to 15 allowed.
- Serious Faults: Immediate fail.
- Dangerous Faults: Immediate fail and may stop the test.
Examples of Serious or Dangerous Faults
- Driving too fast or too slow
- Not checking mirrors when changing lanes
- Failing to give way
- Mounting the pavement
- Poor control during manoeuvres
6. Fees and Costs for the Practical Test
The DVSA sets different fees depending on the day and time.
Fee Structure
| Type of Test | Manual & Automatic |
|---|---|
| Weekday Test | £62 |
| Evening/Weekend/Bank Holiday | £75 |
| Extended Driving Test (for disqualified drivers) | £124–£150 |
7. Tips to Improve Your Chances of Passing
- Take a mock test with a DVSA-approved instructor.
- Know all manoeuvres comfortably.
- Practise driving in different weather and road conditions.
- Avoid last-minute driving lessons — consistency matters.
- Stay calm and take deep breaths before starting.
Detailed Requirements Table
| Requirement | Details | Mandatory? |
|---|---|---|
| Provisional Licence | Must be valid and original | Yes |
| Theory Test Pass | Must be passed within last 2 years | Yes |
| Eyesight Check | Ability to read number plate at 20m | Yes |
| Vehicle Requirements | MOT, insurance, L-plates, roadworthy | Yes |
| Car Type | Manual or automatic | Choice |
| Pass Criteria | Max 15 minors, no major faults | Yes |
FAQs
Q1: What is the pass mark for the UK practical driving test?
A: You must avoid all major faults and keep minor faults at 15 or fewer.
Q2: How long does the UK practical driving test take?
A: The test lasts around 40 minutes, including independent driving.
Q3: Can I take the test in my own car?
A: Yes, as long as your car meets all DVSA safety and legal requirements.