Learning hub / Practical tips

Independent driving on test

Sat-nav or traffic signs, about 20 minutes, and you are allowed to take a wrong turn.

4 minute read

PassNear is not the DVSA and this is not official advice. For the rules that count on test day, use GOV.UK.

Around 20 minutes of the practical test is independent driving. You may follow a sat-nav provided by the examiner, or traffic signs. Taking a wrong turn is not an automatic fail — you are marked on how you drive, not on being a human compass.

If you lose the route, keep the car safe, look for somewhere lawful to turn, and wait for the examiner. Your instructor should practise both sat-nav and sign-following so neither is a surprise.

PassNear is not the DVSA and this is not official advice. For the rules that count on test day, use GOV.UK.

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