The driving test was introduced on British roads in 1935 because of the number of accidents on the roads. The first driving examiners came from the services or police force.
The aim of the DSA is to produce a test format that is applied as consistently as possible throughout the UK.
Your driving instructor will let you know when he feels the time is right for you to book your driving test. You will then be sent an appointment card.
On the day of your test you must arrive in good time as lateness can mean that the test cannot be carried out and you will loose your fee. The examiner will call out your name and ask you to sign an insurance declaration. He will also check your signature against your provisional licence. He will then ask you for your photographic identity and current address. After this, the examiner will then ask you to lead the way to your car. The test will take approx. 40 minutes.
You have to have passed your theory test before taking the practical. There is always a waiting list for the test.
You can also take your test at the weekend, but this costs alot more. Evening tests in the summer are also available at extra cost..
You can book your test in three ways:
Online
Through the DSA web site. Make sure you have your licence number, theory test pass certificate number and a valid debit/credit card.
This link will take you straight there.
Phone
Most people use the phone. By doing this you will be given details of your test immediately. Just call 0870 010 1372 between 8am and 6pm monday to friday. You must have these details when you ring:
Theory test pass certificate no.
Driver no. from your licence
Driving school code no.
The date you would prefer
If you can accept a date at short notice
Your personal details
After this you will be given a booking number and then sent an appointment card with all details on it. Check these are ok with your instructor
Post
Fill out the form DL26 from either: Theory test centres, driving test centres, driving instructor, or the National test booking line 0870 010 1372.
On the day of your test you will need to take the following with you:
The appropriate theory test pass certificate (or confirmation) if you are not exempt.
Both parts of your photo card licence. If you do not take both parts of your licence your test will not take place and you will lose your fee.
If you have an old-style paper licence, you must bring both your paper licence and a valid passport.
For a motorcycle test please remember to take your CBT certificate as well.
Your appointment letter.
If you misplace your licence, you must apply for a replacement from the Driver and Vehicle Licensing Agency (DVLA), which could take up to 15 days. If this happens, you may have to re-arrange your test.
