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It is possible to pass both the theory and practical driving tests in the UK on the very first attempt. The current rate of first-time driver’s passing the practical driving test is near 50%. The student drivers that are properly prepared by the rules of the road and practices adequately before the driving test is taken are the ones in this 50% that pass. Before you apply for a HGV  operators license you must first pass the standard UK car driving test

Before the Test

The theory and driving portions of the test can only be passed by studying the rules and practicing driving.

First Step

• Obtaining a provisional driver’s license.
  • The provisional license can be issued to any resident in the UK who is 17 years old or older.
  • The application can be filled out online.
  • Proof of identity must be fulfilled.
    • Typically this is a passport.
  • Drivers with a provisional license can only legally operate a motor vehicle when another licensed driver over the age of 21 in the vehicle with them.
  • Operating a vehicle on a motorway is not permissible even when another licensed driver is with the student driver.

Second Step

It can take up to 2 weeks for a provisional license to arrive in the post. In that time the reviewing of the rules of the road should be done until the student driver knows them. The reviewing process of the rules should be continued until all the tests are passed.

• During the practical part of the driving test, the examiner will ask safety questions pertaining to the rules of the road.

Third Step

The enrolment in a driving school is the best way to obtaining practical experience.

• Most students take up to 40 hours of operating a vehicle with an instructor before they are ready for their first mock driving test.
• The more a student driver practices, the better and more relaxed they will be behind the wheel.
• Whenever possible drive with a parent present in the vehicle.
  • This is most beneficial when the vehicle being practiced it will be the same one the actual practical test will be taken in.
  • Know the location of the local DVSA office where the practical test will originate from.
    • The actual routes of DVSA practical tests are not released to the public, but they are near their office. By knowing the streets in that area a student driver will be familiar with them and more relaxed during the test.

The Mock Tests

It is possible to take mock tests of both the theory and practical tests when the student and instructor believe the student is ready. many sites also offer hazard perception tests for free

• The mock theory tests can be found online and consist of 50 questions.
  • The real test by the DVSA has 50 questions.
• The mock practical test is taken with your driving instructor.
  • This test can be taken multiple times until the student driver is proficient at driving.
    • The student should prepare for each one like it is the real test.

The Theory Test

• This 50 question test will be taken at the office of the DVSA under the supervision and is multiple choice.
  • 43 right answers required to pass.
• 14 videos have 15 hazards in them. These must be identified as soon as possible.
  • The sooner you identify the hazard, the more points are acquired from 0 to 5 per hazard.
  • A score of 44 is required out of a maximum of 75.

The Practical Test

• This test will last 40 to 45 minutes.
• Eyesight test.
  • Reading a number plate from 20 meters away.
• There will be show me tell me questions.
  • Are headlights and or tail lights working?
• Will contain 20 minutes of independent driving.
  • This is when the examiner will ask 2 or more safety questions.
  • Taking verbal directions from the examiner will be included.
• New to the test will be following instructions from a sat nav system.
• Moving off and stopping next to a curb.
• Moving off from a stop on a hill.
• Most examiners require at least one emergency stop.
• Driving the vehicle in reverse.
  • Can be parallel parking.
  • Can be reversing into or out of a parking bay.

Results of the Practical Test

Up to 15 minor infractions are permitted.  On the 16^th minor fault, the test is failed.

One major fault is the automatic failure of the test.