Driving Test Routes in UK: Everything You Need to Know to Pass Fast!

Are you getting ready for your practical driving test?
Whether you’re preparing in London, Manchester, Birmingham, or a smaller town, knowing your driving test routes can make all the difference. In this guide, we’ll answer the most commonly asked questions about driving test routes in UK, explain why practising them is vital – and reveal why RouteBuddy is the best app to prepare with.

What Are Driving Test Routes?

Driving test routes are pre-planned paths used by DVSA examiners during practical driving tests. They cover a mix of:

• Residential areas

• Dual carriageways

• Country lanes

• Busy town centres

• Challenging junctions and roundabouts

These routes are designed to test your skills in real-world driving conditions – not just your memory of the Highway Code.

❓ Most Asked Questions About Driving Test Routes in the UK

1. Do examiners use the same test routes every time?

No – examiners rotate between multiple routes to keep tests unpredictable. However, many of the same roads, roundabouts and junctions appear regularly, especially near the test centre.

2. Can I see my test route before the test?

Officially, the DVSA no longer publishes test routes – but RouteBuddy gives you the closest match to actual DVSA routes, verified by local instructors and previous test-takers.

3. How many routes does a test centre have?

Most centres have 5–10 routes, which are varied to include all key elements of the driving test (like manoeuvres, dual carriageways, and independent driving).

4. Do I need to practise every test route?

Not necessarily, but it’s essential to practise key roads, junctions, and roundabouts near your test centre. Apps like RouteBuddy show you where to focus your efforts.

5. Are motorways included in test routes?

No. Motorways are not part of the driving test, but dual carriageways are – and they often trip people up!

6. Can I fail for taking a wrong turn?

No – as long as you do it safely, the examiner won’t penalise you. That said, practising routes helps you stay calm and prepared.

7. Will I always do a manoeuvre on my test?

Yes – one reversing manoeuvre is guaranteed, such as:

• Bay parking

• Parallel parking

• Pulling up on the right and reversing

Emergency stop is also requested in 1 in 3 tests.

8. Does the test include sat nav driving?

Yes – 80% of the driving test involves following sat nav directions. The remaining 20% is independent driving using road signs.

9. How can I practise actual driving test routes?

Use the RouteBuddy app – it’s the easiest way to:

• Find routes for your test centre

• Follow them with real-time navigation

• Practise solo or with your instructor

• Master tricky roundabouts and junctions

✅ Why Practising Driving Test Routes Is So Important

🚗 Boosts Confidence
Knowing what to expect helps you feel more in control and reduces test-day nerves.

📍 Familiarity with Local Hazards
You’ll learn local blackspots like blind bends, hidden junctions, or awkward lane merges.

🧠 Muscle Memory & Anticipation
The more you drive the routes, the more your reactions become automatic – making you safer and smoother behind the wheel.

🎯 Higher Pass Rates
Learners who practise test routes with apps like RouteBuddy have a significantly better chance of passing.

📲 The Best App for Driving Test Routes: RouteBuddy

RouteBuddy is the UK’s most trusted app for driving test routes, with features designed specifically for learner drivers and instructors:

• 🔄 100% GPS-based and regularly updated

• 📍 Covers over 300+ DVSA test centres across the UK

• 🚘 Voice-guided sat nav style for solo learners

• 🧭 Recreate real test conditions with realistic scenarios

• 💡 Instructor-approved routes and tips

Whether you’re in London, Manchester, Bristol, Leeds, Birmingham, Glasgow, or anywhere in the UK, RouteBuddy has your test centre covered.

💡 Top Tips for Acing Your Driving Test

• ✔️ Practise during the same time of day as your test

• ✔️ Drive in all weathers to be test-ready

• ✔️ Practise both with your instructor and a supervising driver

• ✔️ Master all the manoeuvres (don’t just rely on luck)

• ✔️ Use the RouteBuddy app for real DVSA-style routes

🔎 Search-Friendly Summary

If you’re searching for:

• UK driving test routes

• How to find my test centre route

• Practice driving test routes near me

• What to expect on the driving test

Then RouteBuddy is the best tool to prepare, practise, and pass your driving test with confidence.

📌 Final Thoughts

Practising your driving test routes could be the difference between passing and failing. With the right preparation and tools – especially a smart app like RouteBuddy – you’ll know what’s coming and how to handle it.

Know the roads. Beat the nerves. Pass with confidence.