As an experienced London driving instructor who has helped many learner drivers pass the driving test over the last 10 years, I would like to give you some free tips to pass your next car test. It is important that you realise that the DSA car test is tough, and it is not easy to pass as evidenced by the low national pass rate of about 40%. It only takes one mistake for a candidate to be failed by the DVSA examiner if that driving error was deemed serious or dangerous, so these videos and the additional 10 tips have been put together to help you pass your next practical car assessment. The information might be simple and obvious for some of you, but all the same bear them in mind and concentrate fully during the 40 minutes the examiner is assessing you so that your dream of driving a car unsupervised can be realised on your next attempt, as my experience from almost 10 years of helping various people pass the driving test has shown that many capable and well prepared provisional licence holders fail not because they are bad drivers, but made simple avoidable errors either due to lack of knowledge or not taking my advice seriously enough! Visit my special website for those of you who are taking your driving test in the Mill Hill centre NW7 London. Video 1 Multi-Lane Major Roundabouts Before I begin, may I remind you that this website of mine is full of invaluable advice based on almost 10 years of ADI experience, so if you are really serious about passing, I strongly suggest you bookmark this blog, subscribe and go over the many other free online articles and videos posted here, you can never be overprepared, and who knows which tip it might be that saves you from making a serious error. Video 2 Independent Driving on the Test Practical Tips To Help You Pass Next Attempt. 1. Arrive at the DSA driving test centre on time. Know your centre location (make sure you have the right details as many candidates have turned up at the wrong address), how to get there, and if possible visit a day earlier to know if there are any road works or local restrictions in place (important if you are not using an approved driving instructor ADI). Arriving for your appointment early will allow you to be more at ease. If you don't follow this tip and arrive more than 5 mins late for your driving test appointment, the DSA examiner will not take you out, you will lose your booking fee and not be able to get another appointment for at least another 10 days. 2. Master the UK highway code!. This is probably one of the most ignored advice tips that I constantly give to all my learner driver clients. It is one of the simplest, cheapest and easiest ways of making sure you are fully prepared (apart from practicing driving a car according to DSA standard) for the test. The small highway code booklet should be your closest companion once you have a driving test booked, take it everywhere you go, reading it in your free time, as it will help with understanding road signs and markings, lane disicpline, how to deal with different types of junctions, other road users like pedestrians, cyclists and motorcyclists and generally solidify your knowledge of how to drive in the UK. Many times test candidates are not sure of how to deal with a particular situation, with different views being given even by qualified instructors! If you have read through the highway code a couple of times, you will always know the correct procedure, as DSA examiners will follow the highway code as this is the accepted standard. Just because you have passed the theory test doesn't mean you know everything or will remember it if you do not revise. It does not matter if people around you know that you are preparing for a driving test, what is more important is that you are not one of the drivers that the examiners tell "sorry you have not passed on this occasion, would you like me to tell you why?". Go and find your highway code booklet NOW and start reading it, what have you to lose? You do have a lot to gain from it! !function(d, s, id) { var js, pjs = d.getElementsByTagName(s)[0]; if (d.getElementById(id)) return; js = d.createElement(s); js.id = id; js.src = "http://player-services.goviral-content.com/embed-code/index/find?placementVersionId=51214887133224853740009"; pjs.parentNode.insertBefore(js, pjs); }(document, 'script', 'gv_script_51214887133224853740009'); 3. Get a good night's rest before the day of your driving assessment a tip easily overlooked. 4. A test tip to help anxious candidates is that Rescue remedy or Kalms might help with your driving test nerves (seek professional advice before using medication if you are driving), and remember being a little nervous is okay as it gets your adrenalin flowing, which helps you to perform in high pressure situations. 5. Use the toilet before you depart to the driving test centre (not all have facilties for learner drivers, DSA Barnet is an example), as you don't want to be caught short just before meeting the dsa examiner. A driving test tip I regulary give to my learner drivers. 6. During the 40 minute drive, deal with the present, don't try and predict the dsa examiner route, what set exercises you are going to get, which direction you are going to be told to go. You will pass the driving test if you successfully and safely carry out each step at a time. 7. Another driving tip is to make progress if it is safe to do so, but obey all road signs and markings, slow doesn't always mean you are being safe, and you could fail the test for driving too slow! 8. Make sure you understand any instructions you are given, if in doubt, ask for the driving examiner to repeat it. 9. Don't panic if you make a mistake, correct it and move on, dwelling on a driving error could cause a snow ball of errors, and the first one might not have failed you! 10. Make sure you are prepared before presenting yourself for the DSA driving test, you have a better chance of passing if you've taken professional training, know what the dsa examiner is looking for and had enough practice during your driving lessons. I've left this driving test tip till last, but it is the most important advice that you will get. Bonus Tip: Watch the video below: Mill Hill Driving Test Help If you are taking your driving test at Mill Hill test centre, you might be interested in the video below, especially if you are not local to the area, as it covers the hardest route in use by the DSA examiners where you have to deal with the dreaded Apex Corner multi-lane roundabout during independent driving as well as the 70mph A1, turning right at sterling corner as well as some other tricky locations. The video has full commentary to point out the failing areas. Follow UKADI on twitter for more tips and help to pass the driving test. Additional driving test tips Driving Test Major and Minor Faults. Most Common Failing Faults on the Car Test Provisional licence cant drive a car! Driving Test Car Hire. Want some cheap driving lessons. Test Coming Up? Find the Biting Point. Don't talk to examiner on the driving test! The DSA driving test moving off and Stopping How many driving lessons do I need before I book the driving test? Taking the driving test in a private car. DSA use of car horn on the test. Top ten dsa driving test errors. Nerves during practical car test 5 facts about the test you might not know. The Red Driving School training scam or con. Drive down petrol prices.Please let me know your views by posting a comment on the blog at http://www.ukadi.co.uk

On the 4th of December 2017, the Uk driving test changed with some radical new requirements being asked of the provisional licence holder. The reverse round the corner exercise was removed, you would now be required to drive into a bay and the reverse out, may be asked to stop on the right and then move off, as well as operate car controls like demister while the vehicle is in motion. In this post however, I want to give you my top 8 tips on how to follow a SatNav during the now 20 minutes long independent driving section of the test. 1. Even experienced drivers take the wrong turning. If you are worrying about taking a wrong turn while following a SatNav, then stop as even experienced drivers like me do this, the most important thing to remember is always be safe whatever you do, and obey road signs (don't turn into a no entry road because the TomTom told you to!). 2. ‎watch my independent driving video as contains information you can use. I made a video in 2010 about Independent driving when it was introduced, and the information there is even now more valid now that you have you have to do it twice as long, I have embedded it below, so watch and assimilate the information provided if you are serious about passing. 3. ‎Get used to estimating distances The SatNav will be giving you instructions and mentioning distances so you need to get used to knowing how far you will travel at different speeds before you get to the turning point. 4. ‎Don't be alarmed by verbal directions from examiner (verbal intervention ) The DVSA examiner may intervene verbally with a directional instruction during the independent section, this is not a failure! 5. ‎Always be safe and obey lane markings, no sudden changes As a test candidate, you are not a learner and will be expected to meet a minimum standard so being safe, having the ability to obey road markings/Signs should be normal and you should not be a danger to other road users by making sudden directional changes 6. ‎Roundabouts, you can go round again. If you miss an exit at a roundabout, go round again and there is nothing wrong with doing that (signal appropriately). 7. ‎Make use of instructors local knowledge. Your instructor will know the difficult/tricky areas that you need to be aware of, so once you are at test standard, practise them until you are comfortable. 8.Practise, Practice! I can never repeat this enough, you can never be over-prepared for the UK driving test, but if you skip lessons or Cant Be Arsed to turn up, then don't blame examiner quotas if you are not successful on your attempt at getting a full pink licence. I have made a video to accompany this post, and you should watch it to get additional tips and advice. I will you success with your goals Subscribe to my Driving Test Tips so you don't miss any future articles and get DSA updates direct to your inbox by Email. The service is provided and powered by Google Feedburner, so I don't personally keep your email addresses, and you can remove yourself anytime after passing the driving test with just one mouse click, you can also follow UKADI on twitter or join my UKADI Facebook page.Please let me know your views by posting a comment on the blog at http://www.ukadi.co.uk

So you are looking for some of those driving test secrets that will help you pass your UK practical car/riding test first time, or guarantee a pass on your next test attempt? Well I'm sorry to disappoint you, but there are no secrets to passing the driving test, all the information you need to know is on the DVSA website or can be acquired from any fully qualified approved driving instructor in the UK. If anyone tells you that they have some driving test secrets or insider information that will guarantee you a pass because no one else has access to this, my advice would be run, they are only after your money and are playing on the fact that you are deperate to pass this hard practical car assessment. I can however recommend you thoroughly read through the Highway Code as even if you encounter something you are not familiar with, if you deal with it as advised here, then there is no way you can be failed for it as even Examiners follow this, and there are no secrets to this. My experience as an instructor has shown that many candidates toss away the Highway code once the theory test has been passed, this is totally the wrong attitude! So to re-cap, make sure you have covered the DSA driving syllabus, get enough practise and be confident that you have reached the test standard and can carry out all the driving test tasks consistently and then read the Highway code. If you have any doubts, contact your driving instructor, if you are learning without one, you can seek advice at the many online forums now available on the internet, there are no secrets hidden from learner drivers, the information is out there if you look for it. The only driving test secrets you need to know is you will pass if you are properly prepared, and don't try to cut corners by going for a test too early. I also provide various driving test tips which can help you in your quest to getting your full UK driving license, accompanied by driving videos and full explanations. Subscribe to my YouTube Driving Test Video Tips channel and you SHOULD follow me on twitter here!Please let me know your views by posting a comment on the blog at http://www.ukadi.co.uk

If you have a provisional driving licence you can not drive a car in the UK unsupervised under any circumstances, so stop looking for excuses that allow you to do so, if you get caught by the ANPR police, you only have yourself to blame, and will have to deal with the penalties. To legally drive a car with a provisional license, here are the conditions you need to fulfil. 1. You need to be insured to drive the car either by having an insurance policy that covers you specifically for the vehicle, or by being a named driver on someone else's (parent, family friend or spouse/partner) insurance certificate for the car you intend to drive. As a provisional driving licence holder, you can get comprehensive insurance for one car which will also give you 3rd party coverage on any other car (provided you have the owner's permission to drive), but this policy will not come cheap, so not many learner drivers are able to use this option. 2. You need to be supervised by a FULL UK licence holder who has been qualified at least 3yrs for the category of car that you are driving, and is over the driving age of 21. This means that you can not drive a manual car with a provisional licence if the person supervising you has only passed the UK test in an automatic car no matter how old or long ago they have passed. This also means you cannot be supervised by a Foreign licence holder including EU even if they have been in the country for less than 12months. 3. You need to be displaying 'L' plates everytime you drive on the public roads in the UK with a provisional licence, no exceptions, and it is an offence under the road traffic act not to do so. 4. The car or vehicle you are driving should be roadworthy, and have a valid MOT if required for its age. Note that having a current MOT does not make the car roadworthy if the tyres are bald, lights are not working (headlights, brake lights) or is in a dangerous condition. 5. You need to have applied for and received a provisional driving licence from the DVLA. If there are no records of your details with the DVLA confirming that you have been issued with a licence, then you can't drive a car even if you fulfil steps 1 - 4 above. Your supervising driver does not need to be insured to drive the car you are in charge of (or have any insurance for that matter) unless they intend to actually drive the car, and it is your responsibility to make sure that they have the necessary licence to supervise you and are agreeing to do so (if stopped by the police and they deny being your supervisor, then you are in trouble, not the passenger beside you). You currently (August 2017) don't need to have had any previous professional driving lessons with an instructor before you can be supervised by someone else, but it does help. If you are driving a car in the UK on a provisional licence and do not meet all the 5 conditions above, then it is only a matter of time before the police and their ANPR camera equipped cars catch up with you, and you can be assured of a minimum of 6 penalty points on your licence, a fine or even a ban. Subscribe to Driving Test Tips so you don't miss any future articles or get updates direct to your inbox by Email. More Reading Passed driving test insurance gone up! New Continuous Insurance Enforcement Laws 2011. Police to offer courses to avoid speeding points on licence. New driver pass plus insurance discounts. Please let me know your views by posting a comment on the blog at http://www.ukadi.co.uk

Driving Instructor ADI number Further to my recent illegal driving instructors article, if you are trying to book a practical driving or theory test online via the DSA website or over the phone, you might be asked for your instructors ADI number and might not have it, you can still go ahead and book the test by leaving the field blank. It will not affect your test if you select do not have instructor, even if you are learning to drive with a qualified UK ADI. If you ask your instructor ADI their number for this purpose, and are not given, or the number you are given is not recognised by the DSA test booking system, this does not point to the fact that something might be fishy with your driving instructor. The ADI number requirement on the DVSA driving test system is just a measure to stop your instructor from being double booked on a practical test, and for it to work the ADI has to first register their details with the booking system. Not all do this (especially since there is a form to fill and a fee involved), also some prefer to manually keep track of their tests and other lessons, and just because a driving instructor does not have a test booked at a particular time does not mean that they will be free to take you for your appointment, so it is important if you want to use your instructors car for your driving test, then confirm your intentions with them first of all so they can let you know of any dates they possibly can not make. If you are suspicious of if your driving instructor is operating legally or not, then contact the DSA in the first instance on 02920 581155 or the police via your local station number. A refusal of ADI number to book a test, or the number not being recognised by the DSA testing system is no reasons for suspicion. Your ADI should however be displaying their ADI green badge on the dashboard/windscreen while giving paid tuition and should produce it when asked to prove that they are entitled to charge money for giving tuition by anyone who requests so. Protect yourself, don't just take cheap driving lessons from anyone, make sure your driving instructor is legal check the personal reference number on the green badge and their current status on your first driving lesson that way if you don't think they are really qualified, you can go somewhere else before you have spent too much money on lessons with the instructor. DSA Examiner Driving Test RoutesAs an instructor over the years I have seen some very good drivers get tripped up at some tricky places on some of the routes by examiners in the NW London area, so I have made these tutorial videos to cover these situations. Each video covers what I have found out to the toughest route, and has additional tips on other places or things that you should be aware as a driving test candidate. These are offered as complimentary preparation materials to your lessons or private practice sessions. Hendon Driving Test Routes Video 2017 £4.99 Buy Now Independent Driving On the Test. Theory Test Changes Driving Test Changes. Mill Hill Driving Test Route Video £4.99 Buy Now Borehamwood Test Centre WD6 Route Videos £4.99 Buy Now Subcribe to Driving Test Tips so you don't miss any of our future articles or be the first to get updates sent direct to your inbox by Email. More reading Using driving lessons blog A learners journey preparing for the UK DVSA Practical test. How many hours before I can go for a practical test? ADI Training costs. Taking an ADI check test Bad driving lesson before test.Please let me know your views by posting a comment on the blog at http://www.ukadi.co.uk

Winter is truly with us now, and those of you that passed your driving tests in summer might be driving in these conditions for the first time, or you might be learning to with a friend so here are some useful tips. Take driving lessons with a professional instructor. You might have passed the practical test, but winter conditions are totally different from summer, and there is nothing like gaining practical experience in a dual controlled car on how to deal with snow, fog, and black ice. Also your instructor has  many years of experience and for the cost of 1 or 2 lessons you could save on car repair costs and higher insurance premiums. Make sure you have clear vision all round your car. With low temperatures, windows will be covered with frost, so get to the car a few minutes early so you can get the windows cleared before driving off.  A lot of modern cars have heated front and rear windscreens, so you can start the engine and use these to clear the front and back windows, however you will still need to manually wipe clean the side windows.  If you have air conditioning you could use this to help clear the damp and moist air. No matter how in a hurry you are, don't drive with misted or frosted up windows as it only takes a second for an accident to occur! Drive carefully and don't get dazzled. The sun is usually low in the sky in winter months, and this means that you can easily be dazzled, so drive slowly if facing the sun, also remember that the temperatures could be freezing outside, and don't get fooled by the greenhouse effect of the rays in the car, the road could be icy and there might not be as much grip on the road due to black ice. Listen to weather warnings. Severe weather warnings are sometimes issued by the met office, listen to these, and if you are driving a car in an area affected, it might be wise not to drive if they predict adverse weather with black ice on the road or deep snow. Don't be lured into a sense of false security. Having a 4X4 vehicle does not necessarily mean that it would be safe to drive on icy roads. If the road is frozen over, the car tyres might not have any grip at all, and all it takes is one false move and the car goes sliding down the road. Above all use common sense, if it is not necessary for you to be out driving in dangerous conditions, then stay in or use alternative means of transport. In foggy conditions give other cars enough distance to stop, use headlights and fog lights if visibility is less than 100m as per show me tell me questions on the test Safe Driving and clean licence.Please let me know your views by posting a comment on the blog at http://www.ukadi.co.uk

My client learner driver that wanted to kill me the other day had another driving lesson yesterday, and as she walked up to the car, was proudly holding her copy of The Official DVSA Driving Manual, which I promptly checked she had read by asking a few questions about junctions and MSPSL. After completing her cockpit drill, she asked me about approaching a T-junction on a hill, to which I gave her some advise and mentioned we would practise that during the driving lesson. Right from the way she pulled off, through the way she approached the first junction, I could see that she had listened to the peep talk I had given her after her last lesson and indeed had been reading and thinking about the information contained in the Driving Manual. The first exercise of the day was the 'parallel park', which though she did not nail on the first attempt, she showed good control of the car, so we then did the 'turn in the road' this was carried out to test standard, that I decided to introduce the 'reverse round the corner' while things were going well. After the usual briefing, I talked her through the exercise without any problems, the second attempt wasn't as good in the accuracy department, but control was still kept. As time was running out, we made our way home, leaving her to deal with a mini roundabout on her own without any prompting from me, and she dealt with the situation very well approaching at a safe speed, taking effective observations and using the gap in the traffic to proceed safely. At the end of the driving lesson, I was happy with what she had done, and so was she, I shall see how things go tomorrow, hoping to continue with the 'reverse round the corner'. If you have any questions about learning to drive, please do search my blog 1st before emailing me, as I do get a lot of queries on things that I have already dealt with in a separate article. You can also subscribe to my free YouTube videos using the link in my video above.Please let me know your views by posting a comment on the blog at http://www.ukadi.co.uk

Following the recent closure of the old DVLA local office in Borehamwood that doubled as a driving test centre, the DVSA has a new temporary location from which a limited number of practical car assessments can be conducted for provisional licence holders. The address is: 7th Borehamwood Scout Group Denbigh Lodge Berwick Road WD6 4BG Please note the following instructions. 1. The site has no toilets for learners or Instructors 2. There is no waiting room, so when you arrive park in the car park and wait in the vehicle for the examiner to come to you. 3. Do not arrive more than 10 minutes before your appointment to keep the car par free for candidates finishing tests. 4. No practising is allowed in the car park at ANYTIME. 5. Your test confirmation letter/email will have a contact telephone in case of adverse weather. My one advice for anyone taking the driving test in Borehamwood is make sure you practise and are confident with mini-roundabouts as there are lots of them in the area. Subscribe to my Driving Test Tips so you don't miss any future articles and get DVSA updates direct to your inbox by Email. The service is provided and powered by Google Feedburner, so I don't personally keep your email addresses, and you can remove yourself anytime after passing the driving test with just one mouse click, you can also follow UKADI on twitter or join my UKADI Facebook page.Please let me know your views by posting a comment on the blog at http://www.ukadi.co.uk

In this article, I will provide you with a list of the DVSA's top 10 reasons that examiners use for failing provisional licence holders on the UK driving test, so make sure you do yourself a favour and get confident with these car handling skills by practising or knowing the relevant rules. According to released government statistics, the current average national pass rate in the UK on all driving tests (car, motocycle, HGV, PSV) is 43%. So let us look at the ten most common reasons for not being successful and the driver faults that would need to be addressed to increase your chances of passing 1st time! Observation at junctions: Ineffective observation and judgement. Make sure it is safe before proceeding at a junction. Depending on the type of junction (open or closed) you need to adjust your speed on approach. If you can't see it is safe when approaching, then you need to STOP. Once you are at the junction, continue to look for gaps in the traffic with the car prepared and ready to make use of a SAFE oppourtunity! Reverse Parking Maneuver: Ineffective observation or lack of accuracy. When you are doing any of the reversing exercises, you need to remember the examiners want you to be safe, while still being able to complete the assigned task You need to keep the car slow and keep checking all around you, especially look out for pedestrians and cyclists. Use Of Mirrors: Not checking or Acting on information from mirrors. Make it a habit of using the MSM routine before changing your speed or direction, and most importantly if you do check the mirrors, act on what you see. For example if changing lanes on a dual carriageway and there is a car next to you, Signal immediately, but DO NOT start drifting into the next lane until it is safe to do so, the Signal is an indication of what you INTEND to do, not a licence to move! Reversing Around a Corner Maneuver: Ineffective observation or a lack of accuracy. The most thing that I have noticed with learners when doing this exercise is that they concentrate so hard on getting round (usually by staring in the left mirror) that they don't look around regularly and miss pedestrians or other vehicles passing by. Incorrect Use of Signals On Driving Test: Not cancelling the indicators after exiting a junction (happens a lot at roundabouts) or giving misleading signals (for example signalling left and following the road ahead). Moving away safely: In-effective observation before moving off. Make sure you check the blind spot and react if you think you see something. The other scenario is moving off too slowing and causing the car behind to have to slow down. Incorrect Positioning on the Road: At roundabouts or on bends. Make sure you use the correct lanes on roundabouts or if no lanes then position left for turning left/following road ahead, or position right when turning right Common mistakes are straight lining a mini-roundabout or drifting out of lane when on a multi-lane roundabout Lack of steering control: Steering too early or leaving it too late. At junctions don't mount kerbs turning left or cut the corner when turning right. This could also be a <a href="http://www.ukadi.co.uk/2006/09/minor-and-major-errors-uk-driving-test.html">Minor or Major Fault</a> during maneuvers. Incorrect positioning to turn right: At junctions and in one way streets. As mentioned in point 8 above, also pay attention when turning from a one way street as many learners get confused and end up on the wrong side of the road creating a hazard for other road users. Inappropriate speed during the test:  Speeding is the obvious driver error here, but others are travelling too slowly (many learners automatically think that you have to drive at 20mph if they see a school sign) or being hesitant due to lack of practise on high speed dual carriageways. The Driving Vehicles Standards Agency (DVSA) also say that research has proved that on average, people who have had about 40 hours of professional tuition (backed up by additional private practise) stand the best chance of passing fist time. One additional point, don't book your test at a centre not recommended by your instructor just to get an earlier test date, routes could be more complex, distance could be an issue (mental fatigue also plays a role in whether you pass as concentration levels will vary). If you really want to pass the driving test, then you had better make sure you have fully dealt with the points listed above, otherwise you will not be among the 40% pass rate! More Tips and Advise Dealing with Driving Test nerves. My Free YouTube Driving Test VideosPlease let me know your views by posting a comment on the blog at http://www.ukadi.co.uk

On Friday 11th September 2015 my client was the last learner driver to take a practical car driving test from the former DVLA offices located at Unit 1-3 Elstree Gate Elstree Way Borehamwood Hertfordshire WD6 1JD The DVLA had already vacated the premises about 2 years ago, but driving tests were still being carried out from this location until this date. Unfortunately my pupil was not successful due to 2 serious driver faults 1 of which included breaking the speed limit which I has worked hard on getting rid of! For anyone looking for alternative centres to take the test, you can use Watford, Barnet, and others that are nearby. The DVSA is trying to secure another location in Borehamwood from where to conduct tests, and I will update once I have any news. Subscribe to my Driving Test Tips so you don't miss any future articles and get DSA updates direct to your inbox by Email. The service is provided and powered by Google Feedburner, so I don't personally keep your email addresses, and you can remove yourself anytime after passing the driving test with just one mouse click, you can also follow UKADI on twitter or join my UKADI Facebook page.Please let me know your views by posting a comment on the blog at http://www.ukadi.co.uk

Depending on the individual, your first driving lesson could either be something you are looking forward to or something that makes you feel very nervous and apprehensive. Here is some information that would help get you prepared and make the day go much more smoothly and earlier. If you've never driven a car before, and your lesson is with a UK qualified approved driving instructor (ADI), then it will usually be a controls lesson. This is basically an introduction to the Cockpit Drill (DSSSM) and the controls on the car. You can prepare yourself for this driving lesson by learning the cockpit drill and even practice it in someone's car. If you do have someone willing to help you, also ask them to point out what the 3 pedals (on a manual car) do, explain the gears, handbrake and indicators. If they are willing, ask them to start the engine and allow you to press the accelerator pedal, you will be surprised at how little pressure is needed. If you do this homework, then the instructor should really only need to ask you a few questions, see you demonstrate the Cockpit Drill, and then proceed to the next lesson which will be Moving Off and stopping. If you ignore my advise, or are lazy and can't be bothered, then the instructor will probably have to spend about 30 minutes explaining this to you, leaving you only 10 - 15 minutes of practical driving! You could use that time to better advantage learning more important practical driving skills, especially as a complete beginner If you are willing to put in the work, you spend less time (and money) on the theory, and more on practical issues. If you also take the time to learn the POM and MSM routines by search for these on my blog, it will greatly improve your knowledge and help you progress much quicker there by reducing the number of driving lessons required to pass the test. If you have any questions as a new learner, try searching my blog first, if still not sure I welcome queries via email or contact me on Twitter: UKADI_Please let me know your views by posting a comment on the blog at http://www.ukadi.co.uk

Yesterday I had a driving lesson with one of my least favourite pupils. Least favourite because she really makes me work for my money (which is not bad), but attitude conveys the message that she doesn't seem to be taking things seriously enough for someone who wants to pass the driving test first time. She hadn't had a driving lesson for about 10 days, so my intentions where to do a bit of revision by driving around the roads we used last going over what we had already learnt (she's a relatively a beginner), and then introduce something new a little later in the lesson if progress was made. She drove off from her house, and we headed to the area where we normally do our manoeuvres. The first manoeuvre we were to do was the parallel parking exercise, we had gone over the exercise a few times, and because she was having problems with it I had asked to make sure she wrote the steps in a notebook and went over it in between driving lessons as well as check out my video tutorial which I gave her the link to. She pulled up alongside the designated car, reversed till the back of the cars were level, then for some reason started to turn the wheel right instead of left, after a while she realised her mistake corrected it but the car was already out of position, and she still didn't remember the rest of the manoeuvre anyway, so I had to spend the next 10 minutes refreshing the exercise. I wanted us to drive around a little before we tried the next exercise, when I noticed that her approach to T Junctions was too fast (it was almost as if she wanted to get us killed in an accident), and we now had to address that issue! Even while we were doing this, she seemed to always want to brake at the last minute as she approached the junction, at one point she actually crossed the give way lines and stopped in the junction. Parallel Parking Driving Lesson Video To cut a long story short the whole driving lesson was spent revising what we had already learnt, and I had to insist that she get a copy of the The Highway Code and revise on the driving theory, especially junctions how to approach and the other things that we had done during the day's lesson. The first thing I will check on Tuesday when she has her next driving lesson is to see the copy of the book, hopefully I will have a less stressful hour, but more importantly she will be able to get good value for her money by not spending too much time in revision. More Driving Lesson Tips How Many Minors On Driving Test Will Fail You?Please let me know your views by posting a comment on the blog at http://www.ukadi.co.uk

I picked up my elderly lady learner driver after her Sunday afternoon church service, and wasn't sure what to expect, as her last driving lesson was about 6 weeks ago. Still I decided not to go easy on her, and had her drive out of the busy church car park which she handled well considering she is a bit nervous and clutch control was not one of her strongest skills at the moment. We then drove through the local side streets and got ready to join the busy Harrow A Road, again she coped well with the pressure and we proceeded to have a good lesson with just a few minor mistakes having covered busy junctions including roundabouts, dual carriageways and the 2 car manoeuvres we have learnt so far. We are making slow but steady progress, and I would advice anyone who thinks they have left it late to learn, to go for it. You just need to find the right instructor, put in the hard work and never give up. One thing that I don't get is when it's a nice sunny day as it was today, drivers seem to go bonkers, with many pulling out in front of us during the driving lesson when they had to give way, motorcyclists cutting across our path and just general lack of safety on the roads. All in all she is progressing well, considering her age and the fact that she is usually nervous before her driving lessons. I've got a surprise in stock for her next Sunday, she'll be going on the busier A1 dual carriageway, she doesn't know that, and I won't be telling her that at the beginning of the day either! Don't forget to subscribe to my blog or visit my UKADI youtube channelPlease let me know your views by posting a comment on the blog at http://www.ukadi.co.uk

Choosing a driving instructor is a very important step to take when it comes to learning to drive and passing the UK driving test, so you need to make sure that your decision is not just based on price. You have applied for your provisional license, started preparing for the Theory Test, and now want to do some practical driving, but don't know where to get a good driving instructor, I hope the following information will be of help. Your first point of call for choosing an instructor, is to ask friends or family for any recommendations, they know you well, and should be able to judge if you will get on with the driving instructor they had lessons or passed their UK driving test with, you should ask questions like what was it they enjoyed about the instructor, how was his/her time keeping, was he/she patient when you had difficulties and do they offer good value for money (not necessarily the cheapest), where they reliable, what was their lesson cancellation policy, do they offer a full hour or was it 50 minutes. If you don't get any recommendations, then you'll have to find a driving instructor yourself by either searching on the internet or phoning one of the national driving schools. Using this avenue usually means you will be paying a premium price for your lesson as the school will want to re-coup their advertising costs, but remember you are the customer, so make sure you are happy with your instructor otherwise ask for a new one if you are not comfortable with who you have got. Never be afraid to change driving instructors if he/she is constantly late, cancelling your lessons, abusive to you, impatient when you make mistakes or you are not comfortable with them for whatever reason! Many learners will put up with bad service when they are the ones paying to be taught, you need to vote with your money, they need you more than you need them, there is no shortage of driving instructors, you just need to find the right one for you! TIP: Make sure your instructor is based a max of 20mins drive from where you are being picked up for your lesson, this will help ensure your lessons are on time and reduce the likelihood of short notice cancellations. Question: Do I really need to use a driving instructor in order to pass my test? Answer: You don't need to learn to drive with a driving instructor, if you can find someone who is 21 or older, has had a Full UK driving license for at least 3yrs, then they can accompany you as you drive and teach you whatever they know, but make sure the car you use has a MOT and is insured for you to drive otherwise you and the driver with you would be breaking the law. The advantage of taking lessons using a driving instructor are you don't have to worry about the car or it's insurance, but more importantly you have someone qualified and has the current knowledge of the DVSA test requirements to teach you all the skills required to pass the UK driving test and avoid minor or major errors. Note: I don't think it is possible to pass the current driving test without having had any lessons with a driving instructor (a least not at the first attempt time, even 1 session could make the difference and could save you the fees of having to re-book and the long wait associated with that).Please let me know your views by posting a comment on the blog at http://www.ukadi.co.uk

Dealing with roundabouts is one of the skills many learner drivers find very daunting, and would rather avoid them if possible, especially on a test, however you can not escape them especially if taking your driving test in London where on one particular driving test route (Borehamwood) I counted about 20 mini-roundabouts! I'm going to give you a few tips that will help you better understand how to deal with them and hopefully boost your confidence, starting with mini roundabouts. First of all there are two prerequisite skills which you should have that will go a long way to helping you deal with roundabouts and get you confident for the UK driving test. 1. Make sure you do not have a problem moving off and stopping. If you are consistently stalling the car when moving off, or are having problems remembering to select the 1st gear after stopping before moving off, then get plenty of practise doing this until you are confident with this skill. 2. You should be able to make smooth gear changes down, using block gear changes where necessary. Again practice changing down various gears until you are confident in this area. The key here is you use the brakes to slow down the car and then select the right gear to continue at that speed. Using block gear changes on the UK driving test will give you extra kudos with the examiner, as this is an advanced driving skill. Note: You should not be taking your eyes of the road to change gears! Get these two skills sorted out, and you are half way there when it comes to roundabouts. You obviously know how to identify a mini roundabout, and know from the Highway Code the basic roundabout rule that you only have to give way to traffic approaching from the right of the junction. It is absolutely key you know these 2 steps, as it will help you to deal smoothly with mini roundabouts. First tip don't bother about signalling to come off a mini-roundabout, they are too small, and you usually don't have enough time to do it while you are steering and still keep proper control of the vehicle. Second, you only need to signal at a mini roundabout when you are either turning right or left, so if following the road ahead no signals are required on a mini roundabout, as they would be confusing to other road users. Third, when your instructor or examiner on the driving test is referring to a mini roundabout, there is a word that is constantly absent EXIT (some DVSA examiners do mention exits, but remember not to signal to exit unless you can do so safely). The instruction will usually be 'at the roundabout I want you to turn right' Okay now lets deal with the approach and what you need to do when you get to the roundabout. A roundabout is a junction, and from your knowledge of junctions you will know the junction is either OPEN or CLOSED. An OPEN junction is one which on the approach, you can see clearly what is approaching from either sides, and in the case of the mini roundabout we are only concerned with what is approaching from the right. A mini roundabout is usually found in residential or built up areas, and you usually need to go round them very slowly (avoiding driving over the white central section). Okay so we are approaching an OPEN mini roundabout and are turning right (it doesn't matter which way we are going, the speed we drive round the roundabout will almost be the same), we check our mirrors, put our signal on, our position in the road does not change (unless on the rare occasion where you have 2 lanes approaching a mini-roundabout), we now look ahead, spot the roundabout, our main concern is traffic approaching from the right, so if there is anything that we think we might give way to, then our first thought is to try and slow the car down enough so that if possible we get to the roundabout just as that car goes past our entrance and we don't have to stop, but follow it if there is a safe gap. this is where smooth gear changes come in. Many people make a habit of stopping at a roundabout during the UK driving test when they could have just slowed the car enough to give way to the approaching traffic from the right, the other mistake a lot of candidates make is they stare to the right without checking in front to see what the car ahead is doing or how fast they are getting to the junction. If we find out that we do have to stop (because there is a stream of cars coming from the right), then approach the junction in whatever gear you are in, stop at the give way line, put the car in 1st gear, and if stationary for more than about 3-5 seconds put the handbrake on. You should also always use the handbrake when you stop if there is a possibility you will roll back. Once you have stopped at the roundabout, get that car at the biting point ready to go when you spot a safe gap in the traffic. Spotting the gap requires practise, there are clues that can help though, the speed of cars, their signals, road position and the way the front tyres are pointing all give indications of what a car is about to do. For example a car approaching a mini roundabout from the opposite direction from you going ahead at the roundabout should not have any indicators on, will probably not slow down a lot, and the front wheels will be straight, so with that in mind you should be ready to proceed once that car is in the middle of the roundabout, and has blocked any traffic that might come across from the right. This skill takes practise, so don't be worried if you don't get it right at the first few attempts, the aim is to be able to do it safely during the UK driving test, so keep working on it. If you are approaching a CLOSED mini roundabout, where you can't see what is coming from the right, then treat it like a T junction, slow down enough (make sure you also select the right gear) so you can check what is coming from the right before deciding if it is safe to go or not (Look Assess Decide Act). It is not possible for me to go through all the scenarios you might come across, but the most important thing is spot the roundabout, approach with the right speed to allow you to decide if you can go or not, always aiming for a gap in traffic if possible. Finally whenever you are a passenger in a car, practice these decision making skills, and see if you do the same thing as who ever was driving, and don't be afraid to ask why they choose to go when they did (if it was done safely, and did not force another vehicle to slow down for them). I will deal with major roundabouts in my next post. Driving test tip: You do not need to indicate when leaving mini roundabouts, as there is not enough time to steer and signal at the same time, so concentrate on controlling the car, as the driving examiner will give you a driving errorif you lose control while trying to use indicators coming off the junction. DSA Examiner Driving Test RoutesAs an instructor over the years I have seen some very good drivers get tripped up at some tricky places on some of the routes by examiners in the NW London area, so I have made these tutorial videos to cover these situations. Each video covers what I have found out to the toughest route, and has additional tips on other places or things that you should be aware as a driving test candidate. These are offered as complimentary preparation materials to your lessons or private practice sessions. Hendon Driving Test Routes Video 2015 £4.99 Buy Now Video: Independent Driving On the Test. Theory Test Changes Driving Test Changes. Mill Hill Driving Test Route Video £4.99 Buy Now Borehamwood Test Centre WD6 Route Videos £4.99 Buy Now Please let me know your views by posting a comment on the blog at http://www.ukadi.co.uk

Why is it that some learner drivers think they know more than their driving instructors who is trying to help them pass the driving test with advice and tips from their many years of experience? Today I gave a driving lesson to a mature student who hadn't seen me for about 2 weeks. At the end of their previous lesson I had asked them to buy a DVSA Official Book to help with some of the things they were struggling on, and prepare for the topics to be covering next (I don't do this for everyone, but thought this would helpful for this individual's case). The first thing I asked before we began today was 'have you bought that book I recommended' to which they replied 'No, I've been busy preparing for a professional exam, so haven't had the chance'. Now that would have been a fair point if not for the fact that the next thing they said was 'I'd like to see if I could book a driving test for October', this coming from someone who last had a test about 2 years ago, had only had 4 lessons with me, and was no where near the DVSA driving test standard! Many provisional licence holders just think they can try their luck on the test, and if they get a nice examiner, they will scrape through. It doesn't work that way (yes you will hear the odd example of people being lucky), all examiners are looking for a particular standard of driving, and unless you are able to show that standard on the test day, you WILL NOT pass, but more importantly if you mange to scrape through and are not a safe driver, you could be involved in a nasty incident!. I'm very aware that people might not have a lot of money to waste on driving lessons, so I usually give advise and tips that would help them to maximise what they gain during each lesson(an example if this blog), but it seems the some students are not bothered to put in the required extra work in order to save money on driving lessons. I have lost count of the number of times I tell them to read the highway code in between lessons to increase their chances of passing especially because they keep forgetting what road markings mean, or rules regarding junctions or meeting situations! Getting a copy of the The Official Driving Manual is another piece of advice that falls on deaf ears and people wonder why the examiner fails them for what they think is a simple mistake! I can only give you advice, it is up to you to take it, put in the effort and not compare yourself to a friend who might be on an ego trip and tell you lies about how they only took 10 lessons to pass the driving test. Even if that is true, it doesn't mean you will be able to do the same! Here is some useful advice again, even if you have passed your theory test, continue to read your books in between driving lessons, and follow any advise your instructor gives you regarding increasing your chances of passing the Driving test 1st time. Follow me on twitter @UKADI_ or subscribe to my UKADI YouTube Channel for more free tips, videos and advice.Please let me know your views by posting a comment on the blog at http://www.ukadi.co.uk

Okay, so you are thinking of learning to drive a car and pass the UK driving test, and are not sure where to start. Well how about starting at the beginning! If you have not already done so, then your first step is to: Apply for and get a Provisional Licence. The current fee (August 2015) is £50. An international or foreign driving licence can not be used to prepare for the UK driving test, though you can use one to drive unsupervised within the 1st 12 months of you arriving in the country. Anyone normally resident in the UK and aged 17 or over can apply for a provisional license, If you are 16 and in receipt of the higher disability benefit you can also apply for one. Doing it online is quicker especially if you have a new biometric passport. Start preparing for your theory test. You need to pass the theory test before you are allowed to book a practical driving test appointment, so the earlier you get this out of the way, the better as you can concentrate on your lessons. Some advise: You can getting your learning underway preparing for the driving test by getting a copy of the Highway Code and reading it. If you can read through it twice before you get in the car, you will be amazed at how much easier your lessons will be. Another thing you can do is start reading your Official Theory Test CD/DVD material. This is the material by the people who conduct the test, so make sure you understand it fully, especially the Hazard perception portion which is where a lot of candidates fail. The Highway Code will start you on the way, but you will need to read the additional official book and practise your hazard perception skills (there are other resources out there including apps for your smartphone). You can not however apply to sit the theory test until you've received your provisional licence. Once you've received your provisional licence, you can now start thinking about when you want to book your Theory Test and choosing an instructor. Take driving Lessons! There are currently no legal requirements (August 2015)that make it compulsory for a provisional licence holder to take driving lessons with a fully qualified ADI in order to sit and pass the UK test, however I advice you do at least take some in order to make sure you are at the right standard, get a knowledge of the area you will taken, deal with bad habits and therefore increase your chances of passing and getting a full licence. This is especially true if you are a foreign licence holder or have been taught by parents or friends. More Reading 10 Easy Steps to Passing The Driving TestPlease let me know your views by posting a comment on the blog at http://www.ukadi.co.uk

One of the most common statements I hear from potential new learner clients is I want to pass my driving test as soon as possible and usually they also want the cheapest means of doing this at the same time. As a fully qualified UK approved driving instructor based in Mill Hill who has been helping many provisional licence holders succeed at their 1st attempt since 2003 and I'd like to share some useful tips on things you could do to increase your chance of passing the UK driving test and getting your full licence quickly. As you probably already know, the UK practical car assessment is conducted by the Driving Standards & Vehicles Agency whose motto is 'safe driving for life'. That motto is the key to passing and you need to bear this in mind at all times during your lessons or private practice with parents, family or friends. You must be safe at all times, and the best way is to make sure it is a habit not something you only do when your instructor is in the car! Anything that compromises safety will always result in a fail, and it could be something as simple as not checking your right blind spot before moving off. The driving test is all about showing the examiner that you have the skills to drive safely and would be a responsible driver once you are allowed to be in control of a car unsupervised (you only have 35-40 minutes to do this, and the examiner will judge everything you do on the basis that is how you drive all the time). You will also be expected to conduct some a set exercise/maneuver safely and under control to the standard mentioned in the highway code including the emergency stop. They are not expecting you to be perfect, so if you make a mistake, do not dwell on it, correct it if possible otherwise concentrate on what is ahead. If you have had enough practcise before the day of your driving test, then there should be nothing new that the examiner will ask you to do, let your training take over, don't try and change things whatever your instructor has said you should do during lessons, that is what is required to be successful. Build up good habits, I often hear my pupils say I won't do that on the test, so I ask why are you doing it NOW? It is very easy to concentrate within the 1st 15 minutes of the test, but your normal habits will show up by the time you have driven for 25-30 minutes. The number of times people have made stupid mistakes within the last minute of test is unbelievable, so do not give excuses for driver errors deal with them not matter how minor you might think they are. I hope to start from the very beginning on this blog, mainly giving driving test tips via detailed articles, posting free tutorial videos and also giving some insight to what life as a driving instructor can be like (just in case you are thinking of joining the ranks). One of the reasons why you need to consult a driving instructor before taking the driving test is that the DVSA makes changes (mostly small ones) on a regular basis, so your friend or parent will not have the latest information (vehicle recalls, route updates) these can all contribute to whether you are successful or not!! Do subscribe to this blog and don't forget to check out my YouTube channel as well. I wish you all the best in your goals and aspirations.Please let me know your views by posting a comment on the blog at http://www.ukadi.co.uk

My name is Shola, I am a fully qualified driving instructor based in Mill Hill, NW London and have been providing free online tips, video tutorials and advice on this blog since 2005. If you would like to contact me, use the address below, but before you do please use the search facility on the right, as a lot of the questions I get have already been answered and unfortunately due to how busy I am offering lessons to my own learners I can't personally reply to all emails: adi@privatehomesales.co.uk or leave a comment on the blog in the section below. If you would like driving lessons in Mill Hill or Hendon, Edgware, Collindale areas of North West London and want to pass the driving test 1st time, then I am the right instructor for you. I have been living and working in the area since 2003, know all the driving test routes, especially the places where many candidates have failed with serious errors and can help you avoid these.If you are interested, call 07956233032. (Please don't call this number for general advice, as I'm very busy you can email me instead. Note: I do not offer automatic driving lessons at the moment. My current lesson price is £25 per hour, but offer a generous discount for block booking of lessons or intensive driving courses. I am also a Pass Plus registered driving instructor, and conduct the course for new drivers which offers insurance discounts to young drivers once completed and there is also a £70 discount from transport for London. Driving Lesson Video - Parallel Parking There are more instructional videos and tips on my YouTube channel Driving Test Tips Videos, so bookmark it and visit on a regular basis, check the comments to see how many learners this has helped in the past.Please let me know your views by posting a comment on the blog at http://www.ukadi.co.uk

Here are a list of useful resources for those learning to drive and want to pass the driving test at the 1st attempt, or newly qualified drivers who want to be safe and gain more experience with out having to learn from their own mistakes. If there are other useful websites that should be included, please leave me a comment, letting me know and I will include it as well, please note that driving school websites are excluded, as unfortunately I can't promote the business of my competition (i'm sure you understand that). Learner Driver forum 2Pass Driver Forum If you are studying for the theory, this forum has many helpful fully qualified instructors offering assistance and guidance nationwide. The Official Highway code You need to continue reading this book at least until you pass the driving test, because many candidates fail due to the fact they don't know the rules that apply on the road or how to deal with situations that they are not familiar with. It is a very small book and you should be revising it between lessons to keep your confidence and knowledge high. The Driving & Vehicle Standards Agency, this is the official Government website where you can book tests and get all the information needed to pass the UK test. Pass Plus This website is geared towards newly qualified drivers, and offers advise of how to get extra training for those who have just passed their practical driving test, with offers that could lead to insurance discounts for young drivers. Please let me know your views by posting a comment on the blog at http://www.ukadi.co.uk

So for the first time in my 13 years as an London ADI, I recently had a pupil pass their driving test with zero minor faults! For the candidate this was a major achievement and shows that if you put in the correct amount of preparations and have a good instructor then passing the UK driving test should not be an issue. Now while passing with no errors or at your 1st attempt is very good, it is important to note that this in itself is no sign of you being a better or safer driver than someone who passed with 15 errors or took many more attempts to get the DVSA pass certificate and a full licence. Many drivers once they are on their own develop many bad habits thinking that because they had a perfect drive with the examiner know everything or don't have to keep up the standard they exhibited on the test! Passing the driving test is only the beginning, and it is what you do when you are alone that defines the type of driver you will become (Safe or unsafe). Everyday on UK roads there are road collisions that could have been avoided and lives saved if drivers stuck to the same standard that helped them get their independence! Things like safe following distance (2 second rule), observations at junctions, using appropriate speed for conditions, overtaking safely, looking out for vulnerable road users including pedestrians should not just be for getting a piece of paper, but a way of life. Don't be one of those people who passing the driving test becomes a death sentence rather than a celebration of freedom and independence. If you require high quality affordable driving lessons07956233032. Please do leave a message if I don't answer your call as I might be driving or giving tuition and unable to respond immediately. Subscribe to my Driving Test Tips so you don't miss any future articles and get DSA updates direct to your inbox by Email. The service is provided and powered by Google Feedburner, so I don't personally keep your email addresses, and you can remove yourself anytime after passing the driving test with just one mouse click, you can also follow UKADI on twitter or join my UKADI Facebook page. Please let me know your views by posting a comment on the blog at http://www.ukadi.co.uk

Here in the UK, there are no DVSA restrictions that stops a provisional licence learner from carrying passengers while driving in a car including Kids when learning to drive, or practising in preparation for the driving test. Here are the terms and conditions that apply to a provisional licence holder in the UK. 1. You are not allowed to drive a car alone, you must be supervised by a full licence holder in the category of vehicle (automatic can not supervise in a manual) who has held it for at least 3 years. 2. You must display regulation sized L plates on your vehicle while driving, if you cut L plates yourself, you could be breaking the law. 3. You are not allowed to drive on the motorway with a provisional licence, this includes full automatic privileges using a manual transmission car (display 'L' plates on a motorway is not an offence if you hold a full licence, though you might be stopped by the police). So feel free to carry passengers with your provisional licence, but do bear in mind that you have a responsibility towards the people in the car, and that your vehicle will handle differently with a full load compared to just you and instructor. You should also not exceed the maximum allowed passengers for the car you are driving, and make sure all children under the age of 14 are wearing seat belts or in a proper child seat or restrainer. I would also advice to be careful about having young children in the car as a learner, they could be a distraction, and hinder the learning process, so you need to ask your instructor if it is okay to bring a baby, toddler on a lesson (even if you have an appropriate car seat, I have had a few well-behaved babies and toddlers accompany my learner drivers). Finally having your mates in the car could have a negative effect during private practice if they encourage you to flout the rules or ignore speed limits etc. As always make sure your insurance is up to date and you are making your monthly payments to ensure you are covered for any 3rd party liabilities For more information, see also my provisional licence law article, as it is YOUR responsibility to know the regulations covering the conditions of your licence. More reading Independent driving on the test October 2010. Driving instructor issues, Subscribe to my Driving Test Tips so you don't miss any future articles and get DSA updates direct to your inbox by Email service is provided and powered by feedburner, so I don't personally keep your email addresses, and you can removed yourself anytime after passing the driving test with just one mouse click.Please let me know your views by posting a comment on the blog at http://www.ukadi.co.uk

One of the most common questions I get from learner drivers or those about to take the DVSA practical car assessment here in the UK is 'How many minor faults are you allowed on the test before the examiner fails you?' Let me quickly clarify an issue and immediately say that on the DVSA practical car assessment, there are no such things as minor or major errors, there are only driver errors as far as the DSA examiner is concerned, and these will either be classified as just an error (with a maximum of 15 allowed before the candidate fails) or it could be marked as serious/dangerous (failure). To be sure of what is being marked by the examiner get a copy of the official dsa guide to the test especially if you were taught to drive by family/friends or you are a foreign driving licence owner about to take their first UK practical car test. To pass the UK driving test, you are currently (2017) only allowed 15 driver errors, and none of these can be serious or dangerous driver errors. The less mistakes you are making in your lessons as you approach your driving test appointment date, the greater the chances of passing unless you are one of those affected by bad test nerves where things go rapidly downhill once the examiner gets in the car! If you are taking your driving test at Hendon or Mill Hill, you need to watch the video below for important information that could save you from failing! Before I go into what is a serious or dangerous driver error, let me say that the best preparation and attitude to have if you really want to pass the driving test, is to go the driving test centre with the intention, knowledge and confidence that I will not be committing any major or minor driver errors during the test. If you know you have what you think is a slight problem (for example you tend to go wide on the left reverse round the corner), this could be your potential stumbling block, and you are relying on luck (hoping not to get that exercise) rather than skill to pass the driving test. It would be in your best interest if you get your instructor to deal with this lack of skill or find someone else who can (that is what we get paid for, and not to blame you the pupil, we MUST be able to find a way of passing our knowledge to you the learner). Any 'minor' driver error has a potential of becoming a serious or dangerous error depending on circumstances, so don't think that you can't fail because it is a little fault. Don't get me wrong you probably will make mistakes during the driving test, but you must be confident that you have dealt with all the re-occurring problems that you are aware of. What is the point of presenting yourself for the test if you are constantly making the same mistake during the reverse parallel parking exercise, hoping that you don't get it during the test or that it will only be marked as a minor on the DL25 report sheet? Take the example of a simple issue of not putting on the handbrake while waiting in traffic. That would not be a driver error if your car remains stationary, or doesn't get too close to the vehicle in front or enter a junction. However if the car behind you accidentally bumps you, and your car surges forward a bit without hitting the car in front of you (because you had stopped far enough behind using tyres and tarmac rule), your little mistake is now a serious error due to what you would say is no fault of yours, and you will fail the test. Even if your car does not surge forward when bumped, you are certain to fail the test because your car was not secured when stationary. Using the same example of the handbrake, if a pedestrian was to walk in front of your car while you were stopped in traffic, with the handbrake off, you COULD fail the test if you car rolled, because that minor error is now a dangerous error, since the pedestrian was at risk while walking in front of your car, especially if the vehicle was creaking with the biting point very high. As you could see, you have failed the test by making a little mistake which went from being just a driver error to a test failing error in one moment, and the change of circumstances were not caused by you! Many would say that was bad luck, but the truth of the matter was that you made the mistake that ultimately failed you, irrespective of what happened outside the car. If you had the handbrake on those two external factors would not have changed the outcome of the test at that moment! Use your driving lessons whether they be with an ADI or family member to practice the right habits, and treat each training session as if it were the last one before a test, and don't do anything that could fail you if it were the dsa examiner sitting next to you. Don't blame the examiner for being harsh or not using his/her discretion to let you off on that occasion, drive to the standard expected and leave no room for any doubt. While it would be a bonus to pass with zero minors, as long as you don't have any major, serious or dangerous errors staying with the 15 allowed shouldn't be a problem to anyone who has taken enough tuition and practise. Mill Hill Driving Test Help If you are taking your driving test at Mill Hill test centre, you might be interested in the video below, especially if you are not local to the area, as it covers the hardest route in use by the DSA examiners where you have to deal with the dreaded Apex Corner multi-lane roundabout during independent driving as well as the 70mph A1, turning right at sterling corner as well as some other tricky locations. The video has full commentary to point out the failing areas. Download Video for £3.99 Hendon Driving Test Routes Video 2015 £4.99 Buy Now Borehamwood Test Route Video Providing useful tips and advice of the common places where candidates fail in Borehamwood, updated in 2015. £4.99 Buy Now Q: How many major mistakes or errors are allowed on the driving test? A: As I mentioned in the article, any fault that is classified as serious or dangerous will result in failing the driving test, so the answer is none! Note there have been candidates who have failed for making just the one serious driver error (no minors as you would put it), which is very sad considering that the other 40 minutes where perfect, but that is the DSA rules for you, so don't let your guard down. Q: How many minor errors equals a major or serious fault? A: If you get more than 3 driver faults in the same category/section the driving examiner can give you a serious which automatically means a fail, but I have seen 4 markings in a section not being classified as serious. I would advice if you have a weakness in a particular area, then get it remedied before the day of your test, as your chances of failing are higher the more you commit the same driver error during the 40 minutes of practical car assessment. I stalled 5 times on Driving test and Passed!! Subscribe to my YouTube Driving Test Video Tips channel and you SHOULD follow me on twitter here!Please let me know your views by posting a comment on the blog at http://www.ukadi.co.uk

On the 4th October 2010, the DSA introduced independent driving to the UK practical car test, and on the same day removed all of the old driving test routes from its website which had been previously published because new roads where being used on some routes to cater for the new 10 minute element where the candidate would need to drive without any directions or advice from the DSA examiner. As a result of these changes, one of the most common requests I get from learner drivers preparing for the DSA practical car assessment, is can I take them on the current driving test routes used by the examiners at Mill Hill, Hendon and Borehamwood centres so they can have a better chance of passing the driving test. As a driving instructor, it is normal practice to take a test candidate on some of the routes that the examiner might take you, but this is only after the learner driver has reached the required standard expected by the dsa, and not just to memorise the roads in a bid to having a better chance of passing the driving test. Many learner drivers who are self taught or foreign international driving licence holders just want to memorise the test routes in one 2 hour lesson session and think that is all that they need to do to secure a pass certificate. Hendon Driving Test Routes Video £4.99 Buy Now There are good reasons why you might want to drive on some of the driving test routes, examples are you might not have previously had the chance of dealing with a multi-lane roundabout like Apex corner in Mill Hill that is also controlled by traffic lights, or a national speed limit (70mph) dual carriage way like the A1 on the hendon centre route or country lanes like those used in Wood Green, and you wouldn't have a chance on the magic roundabout in Swindon if you encountered it for the first time with the DSA examiner in the car. What however I find is that a lot of learners who have booked a driving test in a centre, have done so because they can get an earlier date or a late cancellation but they are not actually fully preared for the test, and just want to pratcise on the routes and do their driving manoeuvres at the same places that the dsa examiners use all in a bid to 'cheat' the system and gain that coveted hard to get pass cerificate. Since this is basically like playing a driving test game of chance, some people will get away with it, manage a pass, bragg to their friends about the method they used, but the majority of candidates will fail (because they don't have the relevant driving skills at the prerequisite standard or enough experience), and either blame the examiner for being too harsh/unfair or say lady luck was not on their side, in the meantime they have just contributed to the low pass rate on the dsa statistics records and made them some more money in the process as well. Before you start going on driving test routes, make sure you get all the basic skills stipulated on the driver's record under your belt, including manoeuvres, especially the hardest left reverse round the corner exercise, as it is not safe and convinient to be learning this on a busy test route nor should you be mastering bay parking reference points in the busy borehamwood car park. Once you have covered the entire dsa syllabus for the practical car assessment, and have attained a consistent level 4, making sure if there is anything that you are afraid of, or hope you will not be asked to do by the examiner, then it is a weeakness that needs to be dealt with. Once these fears have been conquered, then you are ready to tackle your local driving test centre's routes gaining the valuable experience and extra practice on any of the skills that you might not have been able to gain before now, like driving above 50mph on country A roads or dual carriageways. Remember you are about to take one of the world's hardest civilian driving tests, so give it the respect it deserves, put in the work, gain the confidence and get the nerves under check. With the right attitude, all being well and you in control, will sail through with flying colours and hearing those lovely words "that's the end of the driving test, and I'm pleased to say you have passed". One thing that you should note about any of the driving test routes posted on the internet, is that they are all outdated, merely being copies of what the DSA published before 4th Oct 2010, and therefore no longer used or largely modified, which is why I have taken the time to make the test route videos available on this webpage and charging a fee for downloading them since it has cost me time, and effort. The good news is that they are upto date as at January 2012 and do give you the location used by the driving examiners for the various test maneuvers, and for some candidates, it is crucial that they know this to increase their chances of passing, this is where you might need the help of a knowlegdeable local driving instructor like me. Mill Hill Driving Test Route Video Mill Hill test centre is a difficult place to pass from, which is reflected in the low pass rate of 34%. One of the reasons for this is that the DSA examiners have a tough route that is not only tricky, but also includes a very busy multi-lane roundabout (Apex corner). The video tutorial below covers this route and has full commentary pointing out these tricky locations and how to overcome the common mistakes many candidates have made in the past. Click on the image for details of how to download the video, it will save you from making the same mistakes on an already tough driving test. £4.99 Buy Now Borehamwood Test Route Video Providing useful tips and advice of the common places where candidates fail in Borehamwood, updated in 2017. £4.99 Buy Now Subscribe to Driving Test Tips so you don't miss any future articles or get updates direct to your inbox by Email. More Reading Driving Test Car Hire. DSA examiner phone numbersPlease let me know your views by posting a comment on the blog at http://www.ukadi.co.uk

While learning to drive, you would have seen many other drivers doing stupid or dangerous things, most of these would have even made your life difficult as a provisional licence holder like people tailgating you! The funny thing is that most of those who drive dangerously nowadays were once a learner, and their instructor never taught them to drive that way, neither would they act in this manner if they were on a driving test! Passing the driving test should be a step towards being a better drive and contributing to a safer driving environment, not the opposite! Don't copy other bad habits you see on the road, or ignore the Highway code. Everyday in the UK someone is killed, seriously injured in a road collision which could have been avoided if drivers are not in a hurry or think they are smarter than other road users who are obeying the rules! Will you be one of those who will throw everything you have learnt while preparing for DVSA car assessment out of the window immediately you get that pass certificate?? If you require high quality affordable driving lessons from a very helpful, patient and fully qualified instructor, then why not call or send me a text message on 07956233032. Also offer refresher or advanced driving courses for those with a full UK licence, including Motorways, Night and adverse weather conditions. Subscribe to my Driving Test Tips so you don't miss any future articles and get DSA updates direct to your inbox by Email. The service is provided and powered by Google Feedburner, so I don't personally keep your email addresses, and you can remove yourself anytime after passing the driving test with just one mouse click, you can also follow UKADI on twitter or join my UKADI Facebook page.Please let me know your views by posting a comment on the blog at http://www.ukadi.co.uk

Undue Hesitation is one of the most feared driving test faults, but many learner drivers do not fully understand what the DSA examiner actually considers to be undue hesitation, some thinking that it has to do with how long you spend at a junction, and for that very reason go on to commit serious faults. In this video I explain what the examiner is looking for when it comes to junctions, and the difference between 'Making Progess' and 'Undue Hesitation' I would advice anyone taking their driving test to fully watch this video, as many learners rush junctions, take ineffective observations due to lack of knowledge of this driving fault. Make sure you have enough experience in various conditions, so that when your test arrives, you know exactly what to do. As the saying goes: 'Practice makes for a perfect drive' 10 Common Faults that Learners FAIL On!! Subscribe to my YouTube Driving Test Video Tips channel and you SHOULD follow me on twitter here! More Advice For Learner Drivers Major and Minor faults on the test Multi-lane roundabouts how to video Know the rules for provisional licence holders. What you can and can't drive.Please let me know your views by posting a comment on the blog at http://www.ukadi.co.uk

On the driving test, you need to always apply caution when approaching a junction, in particular the examiner will not expect you to enter if you are not able to see if it is safe. Even after you have passed the test and have your full UK licence, you need to remember that junctions are dangerous places because it is where vehicles converge and meet, and even if you have the right of way, there could be a drunken or distracted drive in the other vehicle so be ready to take evasive action! If you require high quality affordable driving lessons from a very helpful, patient and fully qualified instructor, then why not call or send me a text message on 07956233032 Thinking about becoming an instructor? Don't just make a decision based on the red driving school TV advertisement, do the proper research and know all the ADI training options available to you. Subscribe to my Driving Test Tips so you don't miss any future articles and get DSA updates direct to your inbox by Email. The service is provided and powered by Google Feedburner, so I don't personally keep your email addresses, and you can remove yourself anytime after passing the driving test with just one mouse click, you can also follow UKADI on twitter or join my UKADI Facebook page.Please let me know your views by posting a comment on the blog at http://www.ukadi.co.uk

Under normal circumstances if you commit the same minor driving test fault more than 4 times you can expect the DSA driving examiner to fail you, however I was recently sitting in on one of my client's practical car assessments and the guy was very nervous and this resulted in stalling the vehicle 5 times! I was 100% certain that he was not going to be successful! At the very end the examiner uttered the words: 'That's the end of the test and you have passed!" If you are having similiar issues, I would advice you watch my Stalling instructional driving video If you require high quality affordable manual lessons07956233032. I operate in the North West London area. Thinking about becoming an instructor? Don't just make a decision based on the red driving school TV advertisement, do the proper research and know all the ADI training options available to you. Subscribe to my Driving Test Tips so you don't miss any future articles and get DSA updates direct to your inbox by Email. The service is provided and powered by Google Feedburner, so I don't personally keep your email addresses, and you can remove yourself anytime after passing the driving test with just one mouse click, you can also follow UKADI on twitter or join my UKADI Facebook page.Please let me know your views by posting a comment on the blog at http://www.ukadi.co.uk

As a driving instructor it is very important that you offer a professional service to all your learner driver clients, and one way of upsetting them is by being constantly late for your lesson appointments! Technology has changed the way we conduct business, not many of you will remember the old days when there were no mobile phones (I wasn't an instructor, so I can't imagine how difficult it was or how organised you had to be), but we have to constantly evolve in the way we do business, which is why I have adopted a way of automatically letting my learners know if I am running late for a driving lesson without having to make a phone call or text them from a mobile phone while driving! My clients can track me via a map to see where I am, and my phone will automatically send them a text with my estimated time of arrival. I also have a dashcam which is sometimes live depending on my clients wishes: I can also use my phone to get real time traffic updates so I am aware of situations on the roads, recently I saved myself from being stuck for an hour in traffic when my phone automatically alerted me to congestion on the A406 north circular road caused by a ruptured gas mains! Are you using your mobile phone as a tool to improve your productivity and profitability? If you require high quality affordable driving lessons from a very helpful, patient and fully qualified instructor, then why not call, send me a text message or whatsapp on 07956233032 Subscribe to my Driving Test Tips so you don't miss any future articles and get DSA updates direct to your inbox by Email. The service is provided and powered by Google Feedburner, so I don't personally keep your email addresses, and you can remove yourself anytime after passing the driving test with just one mouse click, you can also follow UKADI on twitter or join my UKADI Facebook page.Please let me know your views by posting a comment on the blog at http://www.ukadi.co.uk

In order to be able to pass the UK driving test, you need to be able to deal with anything that you encounter on the road while the DSA examiner is assessing you. It is very unfortunate that not a lot of road users are patient with Learners nowadays, so part of your training should be knowing how to deal with the unexpected! You can not hope that others will give way or be understanding that you are in-experienced. The video below shows some of the typical things that a provisional licence holder might have to safely navigate while on the driving test. If you are a nervous driver, then you might need extra lessons to get used to conditions in a busy place like London or Birmingham cities. If you require high quality affordable driving lessons from a very helpful, patient and fully qualified instructor, then why not call or send me a text message on 07956233032 Thinking about becoming an instructor? Don't just make a decision based on the red driving school TV advertisement, do the proper research and know all the ADI training options available to you. Subscribe to my Driving Test Tips so you don't miss any future articles and get DSA updates direct to your inbox by Email. The service is provided and powered by Google Feedburner, so I don't personally keep your email addresses, and you can remove yourself anytime after passing the driving test with just one mouse click, you can also follow UKADI on twitter or join my UKADI Facebook page.Please let me know your views by posting a comment on the blog at http://www.ukadi.co.uk

Track the UKADI driving instructor during on road lessons using this page. I also have a dashcam which is sometimes live depending on my clients wishes: Subscribe to my Driving Test Tips so you don't miss any future articles and get DSA updates direct to your inbox by Email. The service is provided and powered by Google Feedburner, so I don't personally keep your email addresses, and you can remove yourself anytime after passing the driving test with just one mouse click, you can also follow UKADI on twitter or join my UKADI Facebook page.Please let me know your views by posting a comment on the blog at http://www.ukadi.co.uk

I have made the video below to give advice to parents, family members or friends interested in supervising learner drivers in the UK. It is important to know however, that it is the responsibility of the provisional licence holder to make sure that they abide by the rules and conditions of their licence. Ignorance is no excuse, and if you are old enough to have a licence then you can find out the terms and conditions as well. Especially when it comes to insurance and who can sit next to you as a supervising driver. If you require high quality affordable driving lessons from a very helpful, patient and fully qualified instructor in NW London area, then why not call or send me a text message on 07956233032 Thinking about becoming an instructor? Don't just make a decision based on the red driving school TV advertisement, do the proper research and know all the ADI training options available to you. Subscribe to my Driving Test Tips so you don't miss any future articles and get DSA updates direct to your inbox by Email. The service is provided and powered by Google Feedburner, so I don't personally keep your email addresses, and you can remove yourself anytime after passing the driving test with just one mouse click, you can also follow UKADI on twitter or join my UKADI Facebook page.Please let me know your views by posting a comment on the blog at http://www.ukadi.co.uk

You can dramatically increase your chances of passing the UK practical driving test on a motorcycle or in a car if you are 100% familiar with the Highway Code. It only costs £2.50, is very small so you can carry it anywhere you go, but it contains tons of information on how you are expected to behave while driving in the UK, the meaning of road signs and markings, but most of all it could help you avoid commiting a serious driving test fault and thus pass at your next attempt. Over the years I have seen many test candidates ignore advice to read the highway code in between lesson make simple mistakes which could have been easily avoided if they mastered the book. Simple things like going over a stop line at traffic lights, understanding filter arrows, reading road signs, etc are all simple things that DSA examiners have failed learners on, nothing to do with driving ability! The video clip below illustrates how lack of knowledge on the part of a candidate who has a test the next day could easily result in a failure with the DSA examiner sitting next to you. There where no cars in the left lane when the learner was about to move into the left hand lane, but doing so whould have meant crossing a solid line bordering the hatched area used to seperate traffic, doing so would have violated the highway code, and this would have been marked as serious driver error on the DL25 examiner report form! Even if you are taking regular lessons with an instructor or doing private practice, there is no harm in reading the Highway Code over and over again. It will only boost your confidence in the knowledge that you are doing the right thing. Buy Highway Code Today! If you require affordable high quality affordable driving lessons from a very helpful, patient and fully qualified instructor, then why not call or send me a text message on 07956233032 Subscribe to my Driving Test Tips so you don't miss any future articles and get DSA updates direct to your inbox by Email. The service is provided and powered by Google Feedburner, so I don't personally keep your email addresses, and you can remove yourself anytime after passing the driving test with just one mouse click, you can also follow UKADI on twitter or join my UKADI Facebook page.Please let me know your views by posting a comment on the blog at http://www.ukadi.co.uk

Welcome to UKADI, the only website you need with all the information, advice, tips and videos to help you pass the driving test at your next attempt. As a driving instructor with over 10 years experience helping thousands of learner drivers get the highly coveted DSA pass certificate, I know what it takes to please the DSA examiners, and my goal is through this online instructional blog to give you free the resources needed to reach the standard expected of every test candidate. A word of caution, passing the UK driving test is not easy, and you as a learner driver will increase your chances of passing first time by putting in the hard work and effort (this does not mean just taking driving lessons only), as many very good drivers with competent car handling skills have failed the test due to simple things that can only be blamed on either a lack of knowledge of the UK driving examiner requirements or over-confidence not giving the DSA practical test the due credit it deserves as one of the toughest learner assessments in the world. The UK Driving Test To get a full UK driving licence that enables you to drive a car in the UK unsupervised (manual or automatic transmission), you need to pass 2 tests (1 computer based theory and a practical vehicle motorcycle, car, HGV/LGV assessment). If you have not already done so, you should apply for your provisional driving licence, and while you are waiting for it to arrive, I suggest you get copy of the official DSA learner guide shown below and start preparing for your theory test right away (it is never too early to start preparing). The guide also contains information about the practical driving test as well, and since it is made by the people who actually conduct the assessment, it is all you need! Most people pass the theory test first time especially if they take the time to go through the official dsa study guides like the one mentioned above, but if you don't just study some more, practise the hazard perception videos and you should be fine. Note that the test is available to take in other languages, see the DSA website for an up to date list. Once you have taken and passed the theory test, you have 2 years to take and pass the practical assessment or your theory test pass certificate will expire and you will have to go through the process again, including paying another booking fee. Preparing and taking the Practical Driving Test I have already mentioned that passing the UK driving test is not easy, to illustrate this, of the 1.7m tests conducted in the 2011/2012 financial year only 47% passed, that means over 900,000 people failed! (source DSA Press Release), so it is important that you are fully prepared (practically and knowledge wise) if you do not want to be one of those failure statistics. How to Prepare for the UK practical driving test? PRIVATE TUITION (Learning with Friends/Family) PROFESSIONAL Driving Lessons with DSA approved Instructor Private Tuition Currently in the UK there are no requirements that stops people from taking the driving test even if they have not used a DSA qualified instructor to learn, nor do you have to bring a dual controlled instructor's vehicle to the test centre, so this is a common option used by many, but having spoken to a few examiners in my local centres a high percentage of these candidates fail for a few reasons. 1. Lack of knowledge: Friends/family rarely have all the complete knowledge to adequately prepare a provisional licenced learner driver for the dsa driving test. To supervise a learner you need to have at least held a full licence for 3 years. Within that time, changes could have been made which an ordinary driver might not know about. Another thing to consider is that most drivers would have forgotten some of the things that they were taught by their instructor that made them pass, so they can't pass skills that they do not have or remember. 2. Bad Habits: Friends/Family teaching you to drive will always pass on or not notice some unsafe bad driving habits that you have which will in turn increase your chances of not passing the driving test. 3. Inadequate Preparation: Most candidates learning to drive with friends/family will think they are ready for the practical car test once they have learnt the 4 dsa driving maneuvers, can drive from A-B and feel confident. DSA driving tests are designed to assess a candidate's ability not only to drive a car from A-B, but they will take you on different road types, traffic conditions, junctions, meeting situation and in all this the examiner wants to see you being SAFE. Driving test routes can be tricky and sometimes having local knowledge might be beneficial especially when your teacher knows exactly how the DSA examiner expects things to be done. Have you practised driving on a 70mph dual carriageway including moving into the right hand lane to turn right at traffic lights or a roundabout? The DSA recommends 40 hrs of professional lessons with additional private practice to gain enough experience and confidence to pass the driving test first time. So what advice can I give for those who would like to learn to drive with family or friends due to high cost of driving lessons. 1. Know what is required. It is very easy to pass a test when you know what you will be tested on, as you can prepare adequately by focusing on the core skills. For those learning to drive with friends I recommend you get a copy of the Official DSA Guide to Driving. This book tells you how the DSA want you to drive or perfom a maneuver, and is a required reference to know that what you are being taught is wrong or right. Many learner drivers will trust their dads when it comes to driving, but they can be wrong, and you can use this book to stay on track or request to do things differently as at the end of the day the DSA examiner is using these standards, so if you want to pass do things the DSA way. A common reason a lot of learners fail is not knowing the highway code, so this book covers all situations and rules that pertain to driving in the UK. 2. Take a few professional lessons or mock test. Only a qualified approved driving instructor can truly tell if you have reached the standard required by an examiner, so taking a mock test with them will reveal how ready you are, what bad habits you exibit and you would have a chance of driving on a typical dsa test route. The best way to find a good driving instructor is to go by recommendation from a friend who has used one, failing that you can use the DSA website to find an instructor. When speaking to an instructor, take note if they answer the phone while on a driving lesson (giving directions/instructions), as this is already a bad sign that they are not professional. More reading for learners using private tuition to learn to drive Top 10 Driving Test Faults Are You Ready for The Driving Test (video) Expensive Driving Lesson with Dad! Professional Driving Lessons The most common question a driving instructor gets asked is how many lessons will I need to be ready for a driving test? There is no simple answer to that question, there are a lot of factors that determine this, including choosing the right instructor. However here is some advice to help you get the best out of your lessons and increase the chances of you passing first time. 1. Get a copy of the learners record. Even though your instructor will be guiding you in your preparations, the learners driver record will serve as tracker on your progress against the skills being measure by the DSA. 2. Make good use of your time between driving lessons. If you are really serious about passing the driving test first time, then you need to make use of your free time to continue to learn about what the DSA examiners expect during the test. You can watch videos about the manuevers you are having problems with, memorise reference points, and most importantly of all know the highway code inside out! Any one who has taken driving lessons with me or read this free online blog would know that I am constantly recommending the highway code for test candidates for one simple reason, you need to fully know the rules of the road, including signs and road markings. Yes as a driving instructor I will tell you anything you need to know, but knowing the highway code inside out is not only beneficial to you on the driving test, but once you pass, you are less likely to be banned for having 6 points on licence after passing test or get a parking ticket for parking in the wrong place. As I mentioned at the beginning of the article, those who put in extra work are more likely to pass at the first attempt compared to those who barely take enough lessons, hardly know enough signs, only been on a high speed dual carriageway twice and are hoping they do not get the reverse round the corner exercise as they are rubbish at it. Why Do People Fail The UK Driving Test? Not everyone who fails the driving test is totally unprepared, sometimes test nerves can play a part, while others arrive too late, but for those who do take the test, here are the top 5 reasons and the serious driver errors marked by the DSA examiner. Junctions The most common place learner drivers commit a serious major driving fault is at junctions where the fault is usually that of ineffective observations. Many driving test candidates approach junctions too fast, leaving themselves not enough time to use the MSPSL Routine. If you can't see that it is 100% safe to go at the junction, you SHOULD wait. The examiner does not expect you to be as fast as experienced drivers, neither can you take some of the risks that they do on the test. Maneuvers Whenever carrying out any of the 4 reversing maneuvers, there are 2 skills that the examiner expects from you, effective observations to keep you safe and good car control to enable you carry out the exercise itself. You should not hit the kerb, be too wide when reversing round a corner, straddle 2 bays at the end of the bay parking exercise and must parallel park within 2 car lenghts. Mirror Checks Failing to check mirrors before changing speed (slowing down or accelerating), changing direction or not acting on the information seen in the mirrors. Do not get into the habit of just moving your head when signalling, you MUST process the image in the mirrors and act on what you see. Remember you driving must not affect or potentially impact other road users. Moving Off Safely While stalling the car is not usually a serious driving error, if you try to pull off in 3rd gear, and stall your vehicle half-way into a junction where you are an obstruction to others, then you have no chance of the examiner not marking a major serious fault. The other usual reason candidates fail moving off is not checking the right blind spot after stopping on the left handside of the road or causing another car to slow down/change direction as you move into the road. Use of Signals/Indicators The common errors here, are not signalling when necessary, poor timing of signals, misleading signals and finally forgetting to cancel a signal after coming off a junction. More Resources and Tips to Help Pass The UK Driving Test Dealing with Mini Roundabouts. Points on Licence and Driving Test. Simple Driving Test Mistakes That Fail Learners DSA Examiner Driving Test RoutesAs an instructor over the years I have seen some very good drivers get tripped up at some tricky places on some of the routes by examiners in the NW London area, so I have made these tutorial videos to cover these situations. Each video covers what I have found out to the toughest route, and has additional tips on other places or things that you should be aware as a driving test candidate. These are offered as complimentary preparation materials to your lessons or private practice sessions. Hendon Driving Test Routes Video 2012 £4.99 Buy Now Independent Driving On the Test. Theory Test Changes Driving Test Changes. Mill Hill Driving Test Route Video £4.99 Buy Now Borehamwood Test Centre WD6 Route Videos £4.99 Buy Now Foriegn Licence UK Driving TestOver the 10 years of being a driving instructor, I have helped many drivers from countries like America, Canada, Pakistan, Nigeria, Soth Africa, etc pass the driving test first time, something they would not have been able to do on their own for ONE KEY reason BAD DRIVING HABITS. If you are required to take a test instead of exchanging your foriegn licence for a UK one, the authorities (DSA/DVLA) do not believe your country's driving standards are good enough to use here! For this very reason you SHOULD take a few lessons from a qualified instructor to weed out the bad habits, as well as know what the examiners expect. Many candidates with international driving permits who pass the theory test first attempt go on to take a practical assessment thinking that the DSA examiner just wants to see if they can confidently drive from A to B. It is more than just that, which is why they are surprised when the bad news is delivered at the end of the 40 minute assessment. A 1hr driving lesson can not get rid of driving habits! I have seen so many drivers try this thinking they are smart by asking for one session on the dsa examiner routes, and while I will give them ALL the help I can, habits don't die that easily. Usually they start off fine, but 20 minutes in, they relax (especially once they start talking with the examiner) and they the normal habits show up (driving with one hand, no mirror checks, harsh braking, excessive speed). If you are serious about passing, you should consider taking a 2 hr session at least a week before the test so you know what is expected, and can then practise (if you have an insured car with international permit) or take a few more lessons to iron the bad driving out. Thinking about becoming an instructor? Don't just make a decision based on the red driving school TV advertisement, do the proper research and know all the ADI training options available to you. Subscribe to my Driving Test Tips so you don't miss any future articles and get DSA updates direct to your inbox by Email. The service is provided and powered by Google Feedburner, so I don't personally keep your email addresses, and you can remove yourself anytime after passing the driving test with just one mouse click, you can also follow UKADI on twitter or join my UKADI Facebook page.Please let me know your views by posting a comment on the blog at http://www.ukadi.co.uk

I am running a competition offering the prize below to a lucky twitter follower of mine (to be chosen at random). £30 John Lewis Voucher or 2 free driving lessons in Mill Hill. The competition will run from 08.00 on Tuesday 14th May to 22.00 on Thursday 30th May 2013. To enter you have to complete the following steps 1. Follow @ukadi_ 2. Tweet "I'm following @ukadi_ for free driving test tips & videos #ukadi05" *You must include both @ukadi_ and the #ukadi05 hashtag as all tweets are tracked by software. The following rules Apply: (a) You MUST hold a current provisional licence or have passed your test on/after the 15th may 2014 (I will check when claim is made). (b) You are allowed 6 additional tweets to increase chance of winning. (c) Maximum of 7 tweets over competition period and maximum of 1 tweet a day. Spammers will be reported to twitter and their entry invalidated . (d) You must be following on day winner is announced as claim details will be exchanged via DM. (e) Winner must claim prize within 7 days being announced. Bonus prize: If I reach 1000 followers during the competition, the 1000th follower gets their theory or practical driving test paid for (No cash alternative, but they can nominate someone else). Subscribe to my YouTube Driving Test Video Tips channel for free advice on how to pass the UK driving test.Please let me know your views by posting a comment on the blog at http://www.ukadi.co.uk

A simple driving test mistake that a lot of learner drivers fail on is misleading signals which usually occurs when a candidate fails to cancel the indicator after use, or indicates in one director and the vehicle does not go that way. This instructional video taken during an actual lesson illustrates the point: Works as much as possible on these small mistakes, as they could let you down when the dsa examiner is in the car. If you require high quality affordable driving lessons from a very helpful, patient and fully qualified instructor, then why not call or send me a text message on 07956233032 Thinking about becoming an instructor? Don't just make a decision based on the red driving school online marketing, do the proper research and know all the training options available to you. Subscribe to my Driving Test Video Tips channel and you SHOULD follow me on twitter UKADI here!Please let me know your views by posting a comment on the blog at http://www.ukadi.co.uk

If you have already passed the driving test, don't think you can throw the highway code rule book out of the car window, because sooner or later you will get caught in an accident if you continue to drive dangerously on the roads. Every single day I listen to the radio traffic updates and there is always delays that are caused either on the motorway or an important A road due to car accidents which could probably have been avoided if the drivers involved had been more safety concious and not in a hurry. Just because a DSA examiner is not sitting next to you does not mean that you should change your driving ways from what it took you to pass. None othe the drivers in the video clips below would drive like this on a test, so what makes it acceptable to do it after getting a full pink licence? Another clip of breaking rules after passing, this time it is the 2 sec gap on a dual carriageway. If you require high quality affordable driving lessons from a very helpful, patient and fully qualified instructor, then why not call or send me a text message using my details on this page. Thinking about becoming an instructor? Don't just make a decision based on the red driving school marketing materials, do the proper research and know all the ADI training options available to you. Subscribe to my Driving Test Tips so you don't miss any future articles and get DSA updates direct to your inbox by Email. The service is provided and powered by Google Feedburner, so I don't personally keep your email addresses, and you can remove yourself anytime after passing the driving test with just one mouse click, you can also follow UKADI on twitter or join my UKADI Facebook page.Please let me know your views by posting a comment on the blog at http://www.ukadi.co.uk

Is it too much to ask of you 'Advanced Drivers' to give learners a chance to gain some driving skills by being a little patient? It only takes a few seconds to be courteous, and it can go a long way to make life of other road users much easier. The most worrying thing is that you drivers who have passed the driving test are more of a danger than the learners with thier 'L' plates as shown in these videos! And here are more examples of dangerous driving by people who think they are good drivers. If you require high quality affordable driving lessons from a very helpful, patient and fully qualified instructor, then why not call or send me a text message on 07956233032 Thinking about becoming an instructor? Don't just make a decision based on the red driving school TV advertisement, do the proper research and know all the ADI training options available to you. Subscribe to my Driving Test Tips so you don't miss any future articles and get DSA updates direct to your inbox by Email. The service is provided and powered by Google Feedburner, so I don't personally keep your email addresses, and you can remove yourself anytime after passing the driving test with just one mouse click, you can also follow UKADI on twitter or join my UKADI TV page.Please let me know your views by posting a comment on the blog at http://www.ukadi.co.uk

Sometimes it is what seems like very simple mistakes that learners fail their driving test on, as is illustrated in this video clip below. The DSA examiner is assessing your knowledge of the highway code as well as your skills of handling a car, so make sure you have enough experience to deal with anything you might encounter during the 40 minutes of the test. Take the time to read the highway code between your lessons to increase your chances of passing first time. If you require high quality affordable driving lessons from a very helpful, patient and fully qualified instructor, then why not call or send me a text message on 07956233032 Thinking about becoming an ADI? You can not become a driving instructor for free! It costs money, time and a great deal of effort with a success rate of only 30%. Subscribe to my Driving Test Tips so you don't miss any future articles and get DSA updates direct to your inbox by Email. The service is provided and powered by Google Feedburner, so I don't personally keep your email addresses, and you can remove yourself anytime after passing the driving test with just one mouse click, you can also follow UKADI on twitter or join my UKADI Facebook page.Please let me know your views by posting a comment on the blog at http://www.ukadi.co.uk

In this short instructional video tip, I offer a simple but very important advice to apply when you are overtaking other vehicles or road users during the driving test. Use it to make sure that you are exposed on the other side of the road for the shortest amount of time. As always make sure it is safe to overtake, and give way to oncoming vehicles. If you require high quality affordable driving lessons from a very helpful, patient and fully qualified instructor, then why not call or send me a text message on 07956233032 Subscribe to my Driving Test Tips so you don't miss any future articles and get DSA updates direct to your inbox by Email. The service is provided and powered by Google Feedburner, so I don't personally keep your email addresses, and you can remove yourself anytime after passing the driving test with just one mouse click, you can also follow UKADI on twitter or join my UKADI Facebook page.Please let me know your views by posting a comment on the blog at http://www.ukadi.co.uk

This video taken from a real driving lesson illustrates why you need to build up a habit of paying attention and obeying road signs if you want to have a good chance of passing the UK driving test. As you will see, it only takes one silly mistake like this for you to get a serious fault and fail thus wasting more time and money obtaining a full pink driving licence. Take the time now to use those driving lessons to practiise everything you need to pass the UK driving test. If you require high quality affordable driving lessons from a very helpful, patient and fully qualified instructor, then why not call or send me a text message on 07956233032 Thinking about becoming an instructor? Don't just make a decision based on the red driving school TV advertisement, do the proper research and know all the ADI training options available to you. Subscribe to my Driving Test Tips so you don't miss any future articles and get DSA updates direct to your inbox by Email. The service is provided and powered by Google Feedburner, so I don't personally keep your email addresses, and you can remove yourself anytime after passing the driving test with just one mouse click, you can also follow UKADI on twitter or join my UKADI Facebook page.Please let me know your views by posting a comment on the blog at http://www.ukadi.co.uk

My people think that because they have passed the tough UK DSA driving test, they no longer need to use the rules of the Highway Code when they are in their cars! This is very evident by the number of dangerous drivers that can be seen around. I listen to the radio everyday and 90% of the traffic alerts are due to accidents on the road network which could probably have been avoided especially if people stop driving like those shown in the video below. The fact that you have a number of years no claims bonus does not mean you are a safe driver, and if you continue to ignore the rules you will sooner than later be involved in a serious accident, possibly killing or seriously injuring someone. If you require high quality affordable driving lessons from a very helpful, patient and fully qualified instructor, then why not call or send me a text message on 07956233032 Thinking about becoming an instructor? Don't just make a decision based on the red driving school TV advertisement, do the proper research and know all the ADI training options available to you. Subscribe to my Driving Test Tips so you don't miss any future articles and get DSA updates direct to your inbox by Email. The service is provided and powered by Google Feedburner, so I don't personally keep your email addresses, and you can remove yourself anytime after passing the driving test with just one mouse click, you can also follow UKADI on twitter or join my UKADI Facebook page.Please let me know your views by posting a comment on the blog at http://www.ukadi.co.uk

In this short video I want to show you the most common mistakes that learners make while doing the simple turn in the road (3 point) exercise during the UK driving test. Personally I think candidates should not be failing on this manuever, as it is usually the first learnt, the simplest and you should have had a lot of practise by the time you see the DSA examiner. If you require high quality affordable driving lessons from a very helpful, patient and fully qualified instructor, then why not call or send me a text message on 07956233032 Thinking about becoming an instructor? Don't just make a decision based on the red driving school TV advertisement, do the proper research and know all the ADI training options available to you. Subscribe to my Driving Test Tips so you don't miss any future articles and get DSA updates direct to your inbox by Email. The service is provided and powered by Google Feedburner, so I don't personally keep your email addresses, and you can remove yourself anytime after passing the driving test with just one mouse click, you can also follow UKADI on twitter or join my UKADI Facebook page.Please let me know your views by posting a comment on the blog at http://www.ukadi.co.uk

In this short video taken from a typical driving lesson, I illustrate one of the common mistakes learners make while turning right at a traffic light. As has been mentioned so many times before on this blog, junctions are the number one reason for candidates getting serious driver faults, and you need to always approach them slowly, look, assess the situation, make a decision and then act (LADA). This procedure takes some time, and you must not rush or copy other cars in front of you. Get a copy of the Highway Code and read it from cover to cover as this will help you know how to deal with any situation you might get on the driving test, do not be lazy, the extra work done between your lessons will make the difference, and guarantee success. If you require high quality affordable driving lessons from a very helpful, patient and fully qualified instructor, then why not call or send me a text message on 07956233032 Thinking about becoming an instructor? Don't just make a decision based on the red driving school TV advertisement, do the proper research and know all the ADI training options available to you. Subscribe to my Driving Test Tips so you don't miss any future articles and get DSA updates direct to your inbox by Email. The service is provided and powered by Google Feedburner, so I don't personally keep your email addresses, and you can remove yourself anytime after passing the driving test with just one mouse click, you can also follow UKADI on twitter or join my UKADI Facebook page.Please let me know your views by posting a comment on the blog at http://www.ukadi.co.uk

Further to my last blog post about a learner driver who was stopped from taking the driving test due to a defect on their own car being used for the UK practical test, I thought I'd point out what an examiner will check on all cars presented for the UK driving test. The dsa examiner needs to be satisfied that the car presented is roadworthy, so will walk round the vehicle, checking the tyres are legal, lights are not broken and working, external mirrors are present and not broken, and the windscreen is clean and not damaged. The car must also be taxed, insured and display a valid DVLA registration plate. If the car fails to meet any of these requirements, the examiner will point out the defect, and will give you about 5 minutes to fix it, failure to fix the defect will result in the driving test being terminated and you losing the test booking fee with no refund option. So you need to check everything is okay with the car before using it for a driving test. Currently (March 2013), you can use your own private car for the UK driving test, but you need to make sure that it meets all requirements. I was at the Mill Hill driving test centre recently, and while waiting for my pupil to drive off, I watched in amazement as 2 driving examiners gathered around a private car that someone had brought for the test. After a few minutes of fussing over one of the tyres, the test was terminated as one of the tyres was not roadworthy. The learner driver did not even have a spare tyre to replace it with! Remember that you only have about 5 minutes to fix any defects with your car, so the only realistic fault that can be fixed is a tyre change and maybe light bulb if you have a spare and know how to replace them. Arriving late for a test less than 5 minutes might also eat into this time so do check your vehicle a day before the test and again on the morning of the appointment. You are also required to provide an extra driving mirror for the dsa 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 coupee for the driving test, and don't forget your 'L' plates.. NOTE: Your car should not subject to a manufacturer's safety recall notice, as this would mean you might need to supply a note from a garage saying this fault has been checked. Check the dsa website, link in driver resources. Finally, if you are taking the driving test in your car, check with your insurance company to make sure that you are actually insured during the actual test, as contrary to what many believe, you are NOT being supervised by the examiner during the test and thus technically your insurance is invalid unless your policy specifically covers the driving test. Finally, remember not to forget your glasses if you wear these as you must be able to pass the eye test before you can proceed to the driving part of the test. More Reading Why I became a driving instructor. Please let me know your views by posting a comment on the blog at http://www.ukadi.co.uk

If you have a practical car, motorcycle or HGV/LGV driving test booked for Wednesday 20th March 2013, the DSA is advising all candidates to attend as normal, despite the threat of examiners striking due to industrial action by the Public and Commercial Services (PCS) union. If the driving test doesn't go ahead as normal, then I will advice any test candidate to seek compensation from the DSA, even though you will get a free rebooking within 10 days of the last appointment. Because you can't be sure of how many driving examiners will tun up during strike action, it is best if you make your way to the test centre just in case you are lucky, and it goes ahead, unless you get a call from the test centre advising you that the driving test has been cancelled due to the planned examiner strike action. Did you know that many driving test candidates fail because they did not know what a road marking or sign means! Take a look at the road sign below, if you saw it while in the car with a DSA examiner do you know what it is telling you? The Highway Code only costs £1.50 and could save you having to take another attempt, so keep a copy close to you and make sure you read it regularly! If you require a high quality driving instructor in NW London who is very helpful, patient and fully qualified, then why not call or send me a text message on 07956233032 Want to become a driving instructor? Don't just make a decision based on the glossy red driving school marketing advertisements, do the proper research and know all the ADI training options available to you. Subscribe to my Driving Test Tips so you don't miss any future articles and get DSA updates direct to your inbox by Email. The service is provided and powered by Google Feedburner, so I don't personally keep your email addresses, and you can remove yourself anytime after passing the driving test with just one mouse click, you can also follow UKADI on twitter or join my UKADI Facebook page. More reading Cars for driving test use. 10 Driving test tips to help you pass first time. Driving tests to be conducted in local supermarkets?Please let me know your views by posting a comment on the blog at http://www.ukadi.co.uk

On the UK Driving test, the examiners do want you to pass, and will do everything to help you relax during the DVSA driving test. Here are a few facts about the driving test that you might not know which you should bear in mind on the day. 1. You don't have to talk if you don't want to. If you think that talking to the examiner will not help your concentration during the driving test, politely let the examiner know that you'd prefer if they didn't make conversation with you during the test. 2. You are in control of the car, and are not being supervised! Contrary to what many learners may believe, the examiner is not supervising you during the driving test, thus if you are driving your own private car you MIGHT not be insured unless you have specifically cleared it with your insurance company that you are going on a driving test. 3. You can stop the car if you are not comfortable, or need to take a quick breather during the driving test. If you find out that your seat/mirror is not properly adjusted or that your driving test nerves are getting the best of you, it is acceptable for you to stop the car on the left (you of course will use SCALP to select the spot). Just explain to the examiner why you stopped, and as long as you stopped safely and moved off safely, you won't be penalised. You can't take a 5 minute break though! 4. You can use an interpreter or have someone along for moral support. If english is not your first language, you can ask a friend or relative along to interpret for you (just make sure they are nor an ADI/PDI),. You can ask anyone to accompany you during the driving test including your instructor for moral support, they just can't say anything to you during the test. 5. The examiner might not remember you from a previous test. Many learners remember who they had their last test with, but the examiner conducts so many tests that they don't remember everyone, so unless you did something extra ordinary like physically assault them or crash the car, they would not remember you. So if you are having another attempt a the driving test, treat it as if it were your first. If you have found these driving test tips helpful, I would appreciate if you can share this website with your friends so that others too may benefit from the many free videos and tips I have here, giving it more exposure (Delicious, Stumble, Facebook, twitter, google+). Thanks. Please let me know your views by posting a comment on the blog at http://www.ukadi.co.uk

Before starting any of the 4 driving test maneuvers that you might be asked to do by the dsa test examiner, it is okay to adjust your mirrors to help you see more easily the bay parking lines or the kerb for the reverse round the corner exercise. Just remember to put them back to the position for normal driving immediately you complete the maneuver before moving off again. Now because you are allowed to adjust your mirrors while performing a practical car test maneuver, it is important that you don't stare in the mirror and forget to take effective observations around you, or you will miss the pedestrian walking behind the vehicle or the silent hybrid toyota overtaking you which you are swinging out towards. If you move off without re-adjusting your mirrors, don't panic, find a safe place to pull up on the left as soon as possible. Remember the test candidate of mine that passed the test with one error, he changed the mirrors to reverse round the corner, completed the exercise, was told to turn left, he moved off and turned into the new road realised the mistake, stopped on the left (mentioning he had to re-adjust his mirrors, not that he needed to), corrected the mirrors and continued with the test. At the end, the examiner did not mark him down for it. If you are thinking of using cheap driving lessons to learn to drive, you might want to think again about the choice you make, as it could be an expensive mistake. Subscribe to my YouTube Driving Test Video Tips channel and you SHOULD follow me on twitter here!Please let me know your views by posting a comment on the blog at http://www.ukadi.co.uk

This week I've had 5 out of 6 driving test passes with my learner drivers, 3 of which where first time passes. The complete learners having had an average of 35 hours driving lessons to reach test standard. I'm not saying that they are now very good drivers and will be able to handle everything that they will encounter on the roads, in fact I have advised each and everyone of them to consider taking a pass plus course, but they can now start to gain experience on their own. The key advice I can give to anyone who wants to pass the driving test is make sure you are prepared, get enough experience of all the skills being tested, work on any weaknesses, get a strong knowledge of the Highway Code. For those of you that might have failed the driving test on previous occasions, dont give up, many good and well prepared candidates fail the driving test either due to test nerves, a lapse in concentration or silly mistakes. If you continue to work on it, you will get that driving licence. If you require high quality driving lessons from a very helpful, patient and fully qualified instructor, then why not check out my current discount lessons offer? Subscribe to my Driving Test Tips so you don't miss any future articles and get DSA updates direct to your inbox by Email. The service is provided and powered by Google Feedburner, so I don't personally keep your email addresses, and you can remove yourself anytime after passing the driving test with just one mouse click, you can also follow UKADI on twitter or join my UKADI Facebook page. Please let me know your views by posting a comment on the blog at http://www.ukadi.co.uk

As a learner driver preparing for the the UK driving test, you've probably heard somewhere that the DSA driving examiners are not interested in passing you, that instead they would even go as far a tricking you into failing by getting you into various situations that would cause you to make a serious driving error. First of all, let me say that as a driving instructor, most test candidates do not give the practical car assessment the due credit it deserves. The DSA test is a very high quality and demanding examination, and you should expect the examiners to follow the rules to the letter (even though we know that the driving test is never 100% consistent since it involves humans and conditions vary across the UK especially in rural areas), and the only way of having a guarantee of passing the driving test is if you aim to be an A plus student. So do DSA driving examiners cause you to fail the practical car test delibrately? The answer is no, and contrary to common belief, they do actually want you to pass, and will do their best to get you relaxed during the 40 minutes you are in the car with them. The problem is sometimes the test candidates either don't know fully how the test works, or are too nervous to have noticed an instruction, or the lack of one (if you are not told anything at a junction you need to follow the road ahead which could be a compulsary turn). Before you drive out of the test centre, the DSA driving examiner will give you a lot of information about the test, what is going to be covered in the assessment, and finally those famous words "I'd like you to follow the road ahead unless road signs indicate otherwise, if I want to turn, I'd let you know in goodtime". Those words are important, because they have just laid down a rule for you while driving, basically continue to follow the road ahead, but you must pay attention to road markings or signs, because there could be times when the examiner will not give you instructions (at a complusary right turn for example), yet you will still be expected to use MSM, with the signals being timed properly and the approach handled at the right speed! You can't complain that you didn't know which way to, and therefore didn't signal or had little time to slow the car down enough to deal with the junction safely. Another example could be at a multi-lane roundabout which has 4 lanes on approach, you are told turn right it is the 3rd exit, if there are signs which tell you which lane to use, then the examiner is not going to advice you that both the 3rd and 4th lanes are for turning right, and that you need o be in the 3rd lane, they would expect you to follow the signs! On the other hand if there was traffic on approach to the roundabout, and all road markings where covered by cars, then the examiners will prompt you with some advice, as they don't expect you to be familiar with the area. Some large roundabouts especially on dual carriageways have traffic lights controlling them, and while the examiner will give normal instructions such as 'At the roundabout turn right 3rd exit', you need to pay attention and notice the red light and not try to go because nothing is approaching from the right. If the lights are not working then you need to know that normal roundabout rules apply, which means give way to traffic on the right. ALL of this information is clearly stated in the highway code, which I ALWAYS advice all my learners to master inside out not only for the test, but after passing it could save your life and money by avoiding penalty points and fines with an increase in insurance premiums. You are not a learner driver Anyone presenting themselves to a practical car driving test at a DSA centre is not expected to be a learner driver! You might not be very experienced, but you are expected to be trained to the test standard, have had enough practical driving experience (private practice or with your driving instructor) to be able to independently deal with any situation that would arise during the test, and this is what the DSA examiner is looking for. They expect you to be able to plan your driving to deal with what is happening on the road ahead, be able to perform any of the set exercises competently and safely, and most importantly want you to have the right attitude towards driving and other road users. 40 minutes is a long enough time for you to show what your normal driving habits are, and those that have been relying on the little prompts from Instructors or supervising drivers, will now be struggling to be at ease and drive safely, and the DSA examiners are trained and experienced enough to know and pick up on this. It is the job of the DSA examiner to make sure that the driving test is valid by covering a variety of road conditons, traffic and they are not supervising you during the 40 minutes of the assessment, and while they might throw you a life line by repeating an instruction, or advising that the current road is a National Speed Limit restriction, you should not be relying on that or indeed expect them to be linient towards you. You don't have to make small talk with the driving examiner, if that puts you off your ability to concentrate, just let them know you prefer not to talk, and they will allow you to focus on the driving test. Finally remember you are in charge and control of the car, if something starts to go wrong, immediately correct it, remember the faster the car approaches a junction, the faster you have to think, and the less likely you are to make a safe decision. The driving test is your opportunity to prove to the DSA examiner that you can be trusted to be incharge of a vehicle unspervised, if you are totally prepared for it, and you go into the examination with the aim of making no mistakes because you haven't cut any corners and are dreading any situation, then you are move than likely to comeout as one of the 40% who pass! DSA Examiner Driving Test RoutesAs an instructor over the years I have seen some very good drivers get tripped up at some tricky places on some of the routes by examiners in the NW London area, so I have made these tutorial videos to cover these situations. Each video covers what I have found out to the toughest route, and has additional tips on other places or things that you should be aware as a driving test candidate. These are offered as complimentary preparation materials to your lessons or private practice sessions. Hendon Driving Test Routes Video 2012 £4.99 Buy Now Independent Driving On the Test. Theory Test Changes Driving Test Changes. Mill Hill Driving Test Route Video £4.99 Buy Now Borehamwood Test Centre WD6 Route Videos £4.99 Buy Now Subcribe to Driving Test Tips so you don't miss future articles. More Reading Using your car for the driving test DSA driving examiner complaintsPlease let me know your views by posting a comment on the blog at http://www.ukadi.co.uk