Knowing when you are ready to take your practical driving test in the UK can be a challenge for many learners. Some may feel confident right from the start, while others may lack the confidence to take the leap from being a learner to a full licence holder. To help you determine if you are ready, we have put together 5 signs that you should look out for.

Approval from your driving instructor

One of the most reliable ways to know if you are ready for your driving test is to get the approval of your driving instructor. If they believe you are ready to take the test, then you can go ahead with confidence.

Take mock tests

Taking mock tests is a great way to know if you are ready for your practical driving test. It allows you to experience test conditions and see how you handle them. You can ask your driving instructor to conduct a mock test for you to see if you are ready.

Get comfortable with unfamiliar roads

If you are confident driving to and from familiar places, it’s important to test your skills in unfamiliar surroundings. Ask your instructor to take you to a new place, or try it out during private practice. If you handle it well, it’s a sign that you are ready for your practical driving test.

Don’t fear failure

Fear of failure can often cause learners to make mistakes during their practical driving test. It’s important to have confidence in your own driving abilities and not let nerves get the better of you. The majority of people (over 53%) pass their test after 2 or more attempts, so don’t be discouraged if it takes more than one try.

Your instructor eases off

Driving instructors can often tell when a learner is ready to take their practical driving test. According to some driving instructors, you are ready when you can drive for 50 minutes without any help or guidance, when you can make safe decisions and judgements consistently, or when your instructor stops giving you feedback during your lessons.

In conclusion, if you have the approval of your driving instructor, have taken mock tests, are comfortable with unfamiliar roads, don’t fear failure, and your instructor is easing off, then you are likely ready to take your practical driving test.