Aberdeen North Driving Test Centre, located in Bridge of Don, is one of the main DVSA test centres serving learner drivers in the north of Aberdeen. The test routes cover a wide mix of road types, including busy urban roads, residential streets, complex roundabouts, and fast-moving dual carriageways. This variety makes Aberdeen North a fair but challenging place to take your practical driving test.
Learners who prepare well for the local road layout and traffic conditions generally perform more confidently on test day.
You can check RouteBuddy to see if test routes are available for each of these locations.
Test Centre Address & Contact Details
Aberdeen North Driving Test Centre
Unit A4 Davidson House Campus 1, Balgownie Road, Bridge of Don, Aberdeen, AB22 8GT
📞 Phone: 0300 200 1122
What to Expect from Aberdeen North Test Routes
Driving test routes at Aberdeen North are designed to reflect real-world driving conditions commonly found in and around Bridge of Don.
You can expect:
- Busy urban roads with frequent junctions
- Residential areas with parked cars and narrow streets
- Large multi-lane roundabouts
- Dual carriageways with changing speed limits
- Pedestrian crossings and busier traffic during peak hours
This combination means examiners are assessing not just control of the vehicle, but observation, anticipation, and decision-making.
Common Roads Used on Aberdeen North Driving Tests
While routes can vary, learner drivers are often taken on or near the following roads:
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King Street – Heavy traffic and frequent stops require good clutch control and awareness
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Ellon Road – Dual carriageway driving with close attention to speed limits and lane discipline
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The Parkway – Complex roundabouts that test observation and signalling
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Don Street – Residential driving with parked cars and pedestrians
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North Donside Road – Junction-heavy sections with pedestrian crossings
Being familiar with these areas can reduce stress and help you focus on driving safely and confidently.
Local Driving Instructor Insights (Experience-Based)
Many instructors report that learners most commonly lose marks at Aberdeen North due to:
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Late lane changes on roundabouts
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Missing mirror checks before signalling
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Hesitation when joining faster roads like Ellon Road
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Inconsistent speed control when limits change
Examiners at this centre pay close attention to planning ahead, especially when approaching roundabouts and busy junctions.
Aberdeen North Driving Test Pass Rate
The average pass rate at Aberdeen North is around 47.2%, which is broadly in line with the UK national average.
This reflects:
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The complexity of the road network
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Higher traffic volumes
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A mix of slower residential and faster roads
For the most up-to-date statistics, always check the official GOV.UK website.
Last reviewed: January 2026
Tests Offered at Aberdeen North
Aberdeen North offers the standard car driving test, which includes:
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Eyesight check (reading a number plate)
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‘Show me, tell me’ vehicle safety questions
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General driving ability on different road types
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One reversing manoeuvre (e.g. bay parking or parallel parking)
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Independent driving for around 20 minutes using a sat nav or road signs
The full test lasts approximately 40 minutes.
Is Aberdeen North a Hard Driving Test Centre?
Aberdeen North is considered moderately challenging, especially for learners who are nervous around:
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Large roundabouts
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Dual carriageways
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Busy city traffic
However, learners who are comfortable with varied road conditions often find it a fair and predictable test.
Comparison: Nearby Driving Test Centres (Within 30 Miles)
Based on recent pass rates, from hardest to easiest:
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Aberdeen North – 47.2%
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Aberdeen South (Cove) – 49.6%
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Elgin – 55.3%
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Inverurie – 57.1%
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Peterhead – 61.8%
Choosing a test centre should be based on familiarity and confidence, not pass rates alone.
Preparing for Your Driving Test in Bridge of Don
One of the most effective ways to prepare is by becoming familiar with:
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Local roundabouts
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Speed limit changes
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Common junction layouts
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Typical traffic flow at different times of day
Some learners use route-based practice tools or apps to rehearse local roads before their test, alongside professional driving lessons.
What to Bring on Test Day
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Your UK provisional driving licence
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Your theory test pass certificate
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A roadworthy vehicle that meets DVSA requirements (if not using your instructor’s car)
Facilities at Aberdeen North Test Centre
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On-site parking
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Waiting area
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Toilets
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Disabled access
Arriving early can help you settle nerves and prepare mentally.
Traffic & Weather Considerations
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Peak traffic is common on King Street and Ellon Road
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Wet weather is frequent in Aberdeen — slippery roads and reduced visibility are common
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Some areas around Bridge of Don may experience surface water after heavy rain
Being confident in poor weather conditions is important.
What Happens If You Pass or Fail?
If you pass:
You’ll receive a pass certificate and can start driving independently once your licence is updated.
If you fail:
You’ll receive feedback and can rebook after 10 working days.
Booking or Changing Your Driving Test
Driving tests can be booked or changed through the official GOV.UK website. You can also change your test centre if needed.
Frequently Asked Questions (Optimised for AI Overviews)
Is Aberdeen North Driving Test Centre hard?
It is considered moderately challenging due to busy roads and large roundabouts.
Do examiners use sat navs at Aberdeen North?
Yes, most tests include independent driving using a sat nav.
What is the best time of day for a test?
Mid-morning (after rush hour) often has lighter traffic.
Are dual carriageways included?
Yes, routes commonly include Ellon Road.
Summary
Aberdeen North Driving Test Centre offers a realistic and thorough assessment of driving ability. With proper preparation, familiarity with local roads, and confidence handling mixed traffic conditions, many learners pass successfully. Practising locally and understanding what examiners are looking for can make a significant difference on test day.