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Test DayWhat Happens on Test Day — Minute by Minute
Knowing exactly what to expect removes the fear of the unknown. Here's your complete timeline.
Arrive at the test centre
Get there ~10 mins early. Your instructor can wait in the waiting room. Check in at reception with your provisional licence.
Meet your examiner
They'll greet you, check your licence, and ask you to lead them to the car. They'll ask you an eyesight test (read a number plate from 20 metres).
'Show me, tell me' questions
Two vehicle safety questions. One 'tell me' (explain) and one 'show me' (demonstrate while driving). Getting one wrong = 1 minor fault.
Driving begins
You'll drive on various roads for about 40 minutes. The examiner gives clear directions. If you miss a turn, don't panic — they'll redirect you.
Independent driving section
About 20 minutes following a sat nav or road signs. The examiner won't give directions during this part.
Manoeuvre
One of: parallel park, bay park (forward or reverse), or pull up on the right. You'll only do one.
Return to test centre
The examiner will guide you back and ask you to park. Stay focused — many faults happen in the last 2 minutes.
The result
The examiner tells you right there whether you've passed or failed, and explains any faults. If you pass, you get a pass certificate!
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