If you’re getting ready for your test, you’ve probably wondered how long does a driving test take and what actually happens on the day. Knowing the structure helps you stay calm and prepared from the moment you arrive until you hear the result.
Here’s a simple breakdown of how long the driving test really takes, based on official DVSA guidance and expert advice from UK driving schools.
How Long Does a Driving Test Take?
1. Arrival and Preparation
When you arrive at the test centre, plan to be there around 10 minutes early. Many learners ask how long does a driving test take overall, but it really begins with the preparation steps. You’ll meet your examiner, show your provisional licence, and sign a short declaration confirming your car is insured and roadworthy.
This part takes roughly five minutes — a chance to take a breath and get settled before the drive begins.
2. Eyesight Check and Safety Questions
Next comes a quick eyesight test — reading a number plate from 20 metres away — followed by one “tell me” vehicle-safety question.
If you’re wondering how long does a driving test take including this stage, it adds about five minutes in total.
(Source: DVSA – Ready to Pass Campaign)
3. The Practical Drive
This is the main part that most learners think about when they ask, ‘How long does a driving test take?’ The practical section lasts around 40 minutes. You’ll drive on a mix of roads — from quiet residential streets to busy dual carriageways.
You’ll perform one reversing manoeuvre and possibly an emergency stop. About 20 minutes of the test will involve independent driving, either by following traffic signs or using a sat-nav provided by the examiner.
Using RouteBuddy to practise real test routes before the big day helps you get familiar with junctions, roundabouts, and local speed limits — making this part far less intimidating.
(Source: PassMeFast)
4. The End of the Drive
Once you return to the test centre, the examiner will ask you to turn off the engine and wait while they complete your score sheet.
If you’re still wondering how long does a driving test take, this last stage takes just a few minutes. You’ll then receive your result — along with feedback on any driving faults or areas to improve.
(Source: Bill Plant Driving School)
5. Total Time Breakdown
So, how long does a driving test take from start to finish?
- 5 minutes for arrival and ID check
- 5 minutes for eyesight and safety questions
- 40 minutes of practical driving
- 5 minutes for results and feedback
Altogether, it usually lasts about 50 to 55 minutes.
6. How to Prepare for Your Driving Test
Knowing how long does a driving test take is helpful, but being ready for it is what really matters. Practise local routes using RouteBuddy so you’re comfortable with real test roads and situations.
If you’re still taking lessons, having a great instructor is key. If you’re based in or around Northamptonshire, book your driving lessons with Let’s Instruct — a trusted driving school offering expert guidance that pairs perfectly with your RouteBuddy practice.
7. Common Mistakes to Avoid
Many learners who ask how long does a driving test take also worry about failing. The most common reasons include poor mirror checks, hesitation at junctions, and lack of awareness of other road users. Stay calm, follow your training, and keep your observations sharp.
8. After the Test
Once it’s all done, your examiner will review your results. If you pass, you can hand in your provisional licence and expect your full driving licence by post within a few weeks. If not, don’t be discouraged — use the feedback and continue practising on RouteBuddy until you’re ready to retake.
Final Thoughts: How Long Does a Driving Test Take?
Understanding how long does a driving test take helps you plan and prepare the right way. Most tests last just under an hour, but the time you spend practising beforehand makes all the difference.
Continue learning, utilise RouteBuddy to explore real-world routes, and enrol in lessons with qualified instructors. When test day arrives, it’ll feel like just another drive you’ve already mastered. 🚗
👉 Start practising the Driving Test Routes today with RouteBuddy!