What Car Can I Use for My Driving Test?

This may seem like a strange question, but an awful lot of people have read or seen misinformation on the internet regarding the car they will (or are allowed to) use for the practical driving test.

In this blog, we will look at some myths and rules that are relevant for you as a learner driver when attending your driving test.

Does the test centre give me a car to use for my test?

This is actually a common question asked of us by learners, and it seems to stem from misinformation on social media.

When completing driving lessons with Day Tripper Driving Tution, we almost exclusively have all driving tests at Lowestoft Test Centre, near to Great Yarmouth.

Just like every DVSA test centre in the country, the Lowestoft test centre does not supply cars for people to use for their driving tests. It is for the candidate to supply the car, or, in the case of those who receive professional tuition from qualified and/or licensed driving instructors like ourselves, they will use the car in which they completed their driving lessons in.

Can I use my own car for my driving test?

There are certain circumstances when you may wish to use your own or a friend/relative's car for your driving test. This is perfectly acceptable, provided the vehicle meets the requirements set out by the DVSA.

• There must be no warning lights showing on the dashboard

• The tyres must not be damaged, have the legally required tread depth, and must not be 'space saver' type tyres

• The vehicle must be in roadworthy condition

• An extra interior rear-view mirror must be present for the examiner's use. An example can be found HERE

• A passenger seatbelt and head restraint must be fitted and in working order

• It must be capable of reaching at least 62 mph and have an mph speedo present and working

• 'L' plates must be visible on the front and the rear of the vehicle

• The vehicle must have 4 wheels and not exceed 3500kg in mass

• The vehicle must also be taxed, with a current MOT (if older than 3 years), and be insured for a practical driving test

• It must be clean inside, and you must not smoke within the vehicle during or just before your driving test

• Dashcams must only face outward, with the audio recording switched off

• Self-parking, Tesla autopilot, and your own sat-nav are not allowed for the driving test

• Your windscreen and front side windows must follow the rules for tinted windows. There are no rules for rear windows, but your test may be cancelled if they are too dark for the examiner to see clearly.

Are there any cars I cannot use for the driving test?

Yes, but it's a limited list:

• any panel van (cars without rear seats or rear side windows)

• BMW 218 convertible

• BMW Mini convertible

• Ford KA convertible

• Smart Fortwo (2-door)

• Toyota iQ

• VW Beetle convertible

There might be other cars that you cannot use. This is because not every model has been used in a test before, and some may not give the examiner all-round vision.

If you have any doubts, contact the DVSA in advance.

What happens if my car isn't deemed suitable for the driving test?

Unfortunately, the examiners reserve the right to refuse the test to go ahead if they do not deem your vehicle suitable. It is important to understand that most of these rules are there to ensure the safety of you, the examiner, the public and property, so it's important they're adhered to.

Will I use my driving instructor's car for the driving test?

Provided you have met the required standards to go to your driving test, there is no reason you will not use your driving instructor's car for your practical driving test.

However, it's important to appreciate that our vehicles are our source of income. Without them, we don't earn a living and cannot pay our bills!

So, throughout your driving lessons, we will continually assess your readiness to go to test, and one of the key components of your assessment is conducting mock driving tests with you. We may even have the ability to use another of our instructors to conduct the test, making it even more realistic for you.

For further details regarding the use of vehicles on driving tests, and for the DVSA's contact details, visit their page HERE.

Adrian

Company Owner