Gyle Driving School
Pass In Style @ The Gyle Driving School

The Tests

The Tests

The DSA require you to pass a theory test before they allow you to take the practical driving test. The theory test consists of 50 multiple choice questions and you have to get 43 correct, It also includes a hazard perception test and both parts of the test have to be passed at the same time in order to pass the whole theory test, The current fee is £31.00,  Visit DSA's website for more details.

We will provide the help and advice you need to get you over this important first hurdle.
We recommend that you aquire all or at least some of the following study aids to assist you in passing the test:-
 

Books:

  • The Highway Code
  • Know Your Traffic Signs
  • Driving - The Essential Skills
  • The Official Theory Test for Car Drivers
(All published by HMSO)


Videos:
  • Roadsense
  • What If?
(Both official DSA videos)
 
CD Rom:
  • Driving Test Success
This is not an exhaustive list and other titles are available. Ask us for details.
All the above can be purchased from high street suppliers. However, ask us and we may be able to supply them at a discount!

Once your theory test is successfully completed, you can then book a practical driving test. The form to apply is available from the Driving Test Centre or your Driving Instructor. However you can also apply by telephone on 0870 0101372 which is obviously quicker as a day and time can be arranged at the time of phoning,You can also book your test on-line at the DSA's  website and is the best way to do it. You will also need your Instructors ADI number to ensure that tests are not double booked for the same car. The DSA's fee for the test is £62.00, Visit the DSA's website.

It is always best to take the advice of your Driving Instructor as to when you are ready for your driving test. You should have had enough driving tuition and/or driving practice to ensure that you are at a suitable standard for a driving test. You must be able to drive consistently well and without any assistance or guidance from your Driving Instructor. Most people who fail do so because they do not have enough driving instruction and/or driving practice. You should also have a fairly good knowledge of the local area and a reasonable amount of road experience. Should you feel you want to go for the driving test before your driving instructor suggests it, then he will agree to this providing that there is no danger to yourself or other road users.

Whichever method you use to learn to drive, whether an approved driving instructor or a family member or friend, the car you supply for your driving test must be a roadworthy and suitable for the purpose of the test. You must display regulation size L-plates. The vehicle should have seat belts, and front head restraints fitted to the front passenger seat plus an interior mirror for use by the examiner.
 
You must take with you the documents detailed on your driving test appointment letter, these include your theory test pass certificate, a valid GB or Northern Ireland driving licence and photographic proof of identity (i.e. Passport). If you have the new style photocard licence, you must bring both parts of the licence to the test. This type of licence will also act as your photographic ID.

 

You're Driving Test will include a declaration by you that the car you are using for your test is covered by insurance for the purpose of your test. You will have to sign to this effect at the driving test centre. You will then have to read a number plate at the required distance. Your driving instructor will check this on your first driving lesson.

You will be driving for about 35 to 40mins, depending on what progress you make round the route and the level of traffic.


The driving examiner will test your ability to drive a car by asking you to drive safely and competently round a prescribed route under various road and traffic conditions, giving you instructions as far as which direction he wants you to take. Included in the test are two out of the following 4 manoeuvres, Turn in the Road, Reverse round a corner, Bay parking or Reverse Parking. Plus Moving away on a hill, Moving away at an angle and perhaps an Emergency stop. Once the test is completed the driving examiner will inform you of your success or otherwise and offer you an explanation of any faults.