aura Kingston Driver Training

The Tests

In order to obtain your full driving licence, you will need to pass two tests, the theory test and the practical test. To help you to understand what is required of you in these tests, I have included a description of each below.

The Theory Test.

The theory test consists of two elements, a multiple choice test and a hazard perception test. The multiple choice test consists of 50 questions including case studies, and is based upon your knowledge of The Highway Code. Therefore, pupils will need to have thoroughly read and understood this before they take their tests. In order, to pass this part of the test, pupils will need to score 43 out of 50. The second element, the hazard perception, is based upon your recognition of and reaction to hazards. It consists of a number of video clips, in which you are seen to be the driver, and you must click the mouse to inform the computer that you have spotted a hazard. In order to pass this part of the test, you have to score 44 out of 75.

To help to prepare you for these tests, I will recommend a number of books, CD-ROMs, apps and websites that are particularly useful. I have a number of revision aids that are given out to pupils to help them to improve their knowledge and test out their skills. Furthermore, I also offer one-to-one tuition in the home if a pupil feels that they may need some more in-depth help.

The Practical Test.

Once a pupil has passed their theory test, and when advised to do so by myself, they will then look to book their practical test. This test consists of a forty minute drive from a designated test centre with a DSA examiner. The test will begin with an eyesight check and a 'Tell Me' question regarding the safety and maintenance of the car. Then, once the drive has begun, the pupil will be expected to carry out a twenty minute independent drive, a reverse manoeuvre, possibly an emergency stop and a 'Show Me' question. The independent driving section may include following a sat nav on a pre-designed route or following a set of road signs. The manoeuvre will either be a reverse park, a bay park or a right reverse. The 'Show Me' question will require a pupil to safely demonstrate the use of an ancillary control whilst driving. The pupil will be expected to demonstrate a safe and consistent driving standard throughout their test.

In order to prepare for this test, a pupil will have covered all of the learning to drive syllabus thoroughly. I help my pupils to chart their progress through this syllabus throughout their lessons so that they are always aware of their capabilities and areas for improvement. Closer to the test, I also help to ready a pupil for test with mock tests and plans of action. On the day of the test, pupils will have a pre-test drive to settle them into the situation, and this also allows me time to create a calm and controlled atmosphere before the test itself. I also always offer the pupil the option of having me sitting in the car during test if they wish to give them a familiar face and a second opinion.