What a mock driving test should include

Mock driving tests work best when they include all the parts of the real driving test.

Your mock tests should last about 40 minutes, and include:

checking your driving licence
checking your eyesight
‘show me, tell me’ vehicle safety questions
general driving ability on rural roads, urban roads, dual carriageways, multi-lane roundabouts and one-way systems
reversing the car
independent driving for 20 minutes, either following directions from a sat nav or following traffic signs
an emergency stop
giving you the result and feedback

The emergency stop may not be included in your actual driving test. It’s used in 1 in 3 tests, but it’s a good idea to practise it in a mock test.

Driving test routes

The Driver and Vehicle Standards Agency does not publish driving test routes.

Your driving instructor will use routes they’ve designed that contain similar types of roads. You will not use an actual driving test route.

You’ll usually be ready to take your driving test when:

1You do not need prompts from your driving instructor.

2You do not make serious or dangerous mistakes when you’re driving.

3You can pass mock driving tests.

4You have practised ways of managing your nerves.

5Your driving instructor agrees you are ready.

Only take your driving test if you’re feeling completely prepared.

You can move your driving test back if you’re not feeling quite ready yet.

It’s free to change your appointment time, as long as you do it at least 3 full working days (Mondays to Saturdays) before your test.