Can I use my own car for the test?

Yes, but beware. The examiner needs to be satisfied that the car is roadworthy. They’ll be checking the tyres are legal, lights are not broken and working, external mirrors are present and not cracked, and the windscreen is clean and not damaged. The car must also be taxed, insured, displaying valid registration numbers and ‘L’ plates.

If the car fails to meet any of these requirements, the examiner will point out the problem, and will give you about 5 minutes to fix it, failure to fix this issue will result in the driving test being terminated and you losing the test fee.

You are also required to provide an extra mirror for the examiner (if you don’t have a mirror tell the examiner before you walk out, they usually have some spare in the office, but don’t count on it, it is your responsibility), the seatbelts must be working properly and the car must have proper rear seats for adults, so you can’t use a 2 seat coupe for the driving test.

What do most people fail on?

Below is list of the Top Ten reasons to why people fail their driving test:

1. Inappropriate speed – travelling too slowly or being hesitant

2. Reversing around a corner – ineffective observation or a lack of accuracy

3. Moving away safely – ineffective observation

4. Observation at junctions – inefficient observation and judgement

5. Lack of steering control – steering too early or leaving it too late

6. Reverse parking – ineffective observation or a lack of accuracy

7. Incorrect positioning to turn right – at junctions and in one way streets

8. Use of mirrors – not checking or not acting on the information

9. Incorrect use of signals – not canceling or giving misleading signals

10. Incorrect positioning on the road – at roundabouts or on bends

How many passengers can I have in the car driving with a provisional licence?

As many passengers as the car can legally carry. You can also carry passengers during your driving lessons, as long as your driving instructor says it’s alright.

How many points can I get on my licence before I’m banned?

Any driver who gets six penalty points or more on their licence within two years of passing their practical driving test will automatically lose their licence and have to go back to a provisional licence and ‘L’ plates until they have passed another, possibly extended and more expensive driving test. Experienced drivers are allowed up to twelve points before they loose their licence.

Can I start driving lessons with an instructor before passing my theory test?

Yes, and the DSA encourages it. They believe the best way to learn is to study them in conjuction with one another. However, you need to have passed your theory before taking your practical.
“Those who pass their driving test have had, on average, about 45 hours of professional training combined with 22 hours of private practice. Learners who prepare this way, with a combination of plenty of professional training and plenty of practice, do better in the test.” (DSA website).

Can I take my car theory test before my 17th birthday?

No. You can only take your theory test once your provisional licence becomes valid. For a car this will be your 17th birthday. You can book your theory test before your 17th birthday.

Does my instructor have to book my test?

No, you can do this yourself. However, check the dates with your instructor first as he/she may be busy that day. You can do this online or on the phone.