For many of you when you take your test it will probably be in the day time and there will be little need to exercise your knowledge of using the correct lighting.

Though when you do pass and you drive your very car, you will driving at all different times. So its important to know when and what lights to use.

Sidelights – Your sidelights are usually used when it is raining outside. They can be used in the day time as well.

Headlights – use these when visibility is reduced to about 100 meters. Your headlights are the ones that you will use most frequently. Don’t get confused as to when to use them. Its easy – if its dark when you get in the car turn them on.

Full Beam – These are the brightest lights on the car. These can be used when driving through country lanes on the evening where visibility is limited and there is no street lamping.
Front/Rear Fog Lights - Use your front and rear fog lights when in foggy conditions. It can especially be foggy on a winters morning.

Hazard Warning Lights – These are used when your car is stationary and broken down and you need to alert other drivers that you are not moving.

Don’t be overwhelmed by all these lights, it takes a few minutes to learn. It’s worth writing them down and asking your driving instructor to spend a few minutes pointing them out. Ask to go down a country lane and use your Full Beam or drive in the evening.

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Preparing for your driving test, can, for most of us can be a nerve racking time. A good driving instructor will know when you are ready for your exam.

 

It is beneficial if you combine your professional training with some private practice. Make sure that the person you take extra lessons with has insurance and has passed their driving test for at least three years.

 

At this driving school we find that many people who fail, often fail because of letting a little problem develop into a huge issue. If you do make a mistake such as stalling the car, try and forget about it and concentrate on the rest of your test.

 

An excellent way to see if you are ready is to have a mock driving test with your driving instructor. They will act as the driving examiner. If afterwards, they tell you are ready then it is probably good idea to take your test.

 

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Day of the Test

You should be present in the test centre before the appointed time of your test. If you are late, the test cannot be conducted and the fee will be forfeited.

The driver tester will check your provisional licence to establish that it:

• relates to you;
• is current;
• is for the correct category of vehicle.

You will be asked to read and sign a statement confirming that:

• the vehicle insurance cover is in place and is adequate.
• your vehicle is in roadworthy condition - further information in relation to vehicle roadworthiness will be provided with your appointment letter.

The Test

The driving test is straightforward. For cars it will last about 40 minutes and will include:

• questions on the Rules of the Road (including identifying road signs); demonstrating hand signals;
• reversing round a corner;
• a turnabout in the road;
• a hill start;
• driving approximately five miles under a variety of road and traffic conditions.

Your driving will be assessed in the following situations:

• moving off;
• driving in traffic;
• stopping;
• reversing round a corner;
• turning about to face in the opposite direction;
• starting on a hill;
• parking.

Aspects of your driving assessed will include:

• road positioning;
• overtaking and passing;
• anticipation and observation;
• use of mirrors and signals;
• progress;
• speed;
• compliance with traffic lights, road signs and markings;
• use of the vehicle controls (accelerator, clutch, gears, brakes and steering).
• use of secondary controls such as wipers, demisters, etc.

Recent enhancements to the test mean that you should ensure that:

• you know how to operate the secondary controls, such as windscreen wipers and washers, demisters, rear window heater, lights and air-conditioning where fitted. You must also know how to adjust the seat, seat-belt and mirrors and ensure the doors are closed;
• in the case of a motorcycle test, you must be able to remove the machine from its stand. You must also know how to adjust the helmet;
• in the case of a vehicle and trailer, you must know how to uncouple and recouple the trailer from/to the drawing vehicle;
• in the case of a heavy vehicle test, you must know how to check the power-assisted braking and steering systems, and how to use any retarder or exhaust brake as fitted to the vehicle;
• In the case of a bus test, you must also know how to operate the fuel shut-off valve, the main power switch, and how to manually open and close any powered doors as fitted to the vehicle.

Passengers other than the driver tester and/or Department officers are not permitted to accompany you in the vehicle during the practical test. The tester may be accompanied on test for training/supervisory purposes. While the accompanying officer may take notes, s/he has no input into the conduct or outcome of the test.

Useful information to help you:

• the driver tester will realise that you may be nervous and will try to put you at ease;
• unlike your instructor, the driver tester will not offer you encouragement or advice. You should not be put off by this formal approach which is designed to ensure fairness to all applicants;
• while you will be given clear directions throughout the test, should you not understand a particular direction, ask the tester to repeat or clarify it;
• if you make a mistake, do not worry unduly. It may not be as serious as it appears and may not mean you have failed;
• a supervisory tester may accompany the tester - this is quite normal.

Common Faults Contributing to Test Failure

The following are the most common faults which give rise to candidates failing the driving test:

• inadequate observation moving off, at junctions, at roundabouts and when changing lanes;
• failure to anticipate the actions of other drivers;
• incorrect road position on the straight, on bends, turning left, turning right, at roundabouts, and when overtaking.
• inadequate progress at junctions, roundabouts, on the straight, and when overtaking;
• incorrect or inadequate use of mirrors and signals;
• non-compliance with traffic controls, e.g. road signs and markings and traffic lights;
• incorrect inadequate or inappropriate use of vehicle controls, including gears, clutch; accelerator, steering, handbrake, footbrake, and secondary controls;
• excessive speed for the road or traffic conditions;
• failure to yield the right of way to others;
• lack of competence in the reverse and turnabout manoeuvres.

Faults by motorcyclists also include:

• failure to perform a ‘u’ turn correctly;
• inadequate control at slow speed;
• inadequate observations to the rear;
• incorrect or inadequate hand-signals.

The list of faults highlighted above is by no means exhaustive. You should, as indicated previously, study carefully the Rules of the Road and get as much practice as possible, in all types of traffic situations, in preparation for your driving test.

Your Test Result

If you pass:

You will receive a certificate of competency to drive. This enables you to apply to your local Motor Taxation Office for a full driving licence. The certificate is valid for two years. You should take out a full licence within that period or you will be obliged to pass the driving test again in order to obtain a full licence.

Remember, passing the driving test is not the end of the learning process; so continue to drive carefully and build up your experience in different traffic, weather, lighting and road conditions.

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After the 1st July 2008 the DSA will be changing the Practical Show Me / Tell Me Questions. The number of questions to be asked will remain unaltered. Set combinations of questions will be retained for Category B car tests, these combinations have been updated.

The recent review raised the need for some addtional questions to be included to more accurately reflect the need for candidates to have the skills and knowledge to ensure they and their vehicles are safe to be on the road. Additional questions will cover the use of wipers, demisters, brake lights, fog lights, head restraints, ABS warning lights and the correct operation of relevant controls and switches.

So here they are:

Example one
1. Show me how you would check that the direction indicators are working.

Applying the indicators or hazard warning switch and check functioning of all  indicators. (may need to switch ignition on, prompt not to start engine)

2. Tell me how you would check that the brakes are working before starting a journey.

Brakes should not feel spongy or slack. Brakes should be tested as you set off. Vehicle should not pull to one side.
 
________________________________________
Example two
1. Identify where the windscreen washer reservoir is and tell me how you would check the windscreen washer level.

Identify reservoir and explain how to check level.

2. Show me how you would check that the brake lights are working on this car. (I can assist you, if you need to switch the ignition on, please don’t start the engine)

Operate brake pedal, make use of reflections in windows, garage doors, etc, or ask someone to help. (may need to switch ignition on, prompt not to start engine)
________________________________________
Example three
1. Show me / explain how you would check that the power assisted steering is working before starting a journey.

If the steering becomes heavy the system may not be working properly. Before  starting a journey two simple checks can be made. Gentle pressure on the steering wheel, maintained while the engine is started, should result in a slight but noticeable movement as the system begins to operate.

Alternatively turning the steering wheel just after moving off will give an immediate indication that the power assistance is functioning.

2. Tell me where you would find the information for the recommended tyre pressures for this car and how tyre pressures should be checked.

Manufacturer’s guide, use a reliable pressure gauge, check and adjust pressures when tyres are cold, don’t forget spare tyre, remember to refit valve caps.
 
________________________________________
Example four
1. Show me how you would check the parking brake (handbrake) for excessive wear, make sure you keep safe control of the vehicle

Apply footbrake firmly. Demonstrate by applying parking brake (handbrake) so that when it is fully applied it secures itself, and is not at the end of the working travel.

2. Identify where the windscreen washer reservoir is and tell me how you would check the windscreen washer level.

Identify reservoir and explain how to check level.
________________________________________
Example five
1. Open the bonnet, identify where you would check the engine oil level and tell me how you would check that the engine has sufficient oil.

Identify dipstick / oil level indicator, describe check of oil level against the minimum/maximum markers.

2. Tell me where you would find the information for the recommended tyre pressures for this car and how tyre pressures should be checked.

Manufacturer’s guide, use a reliable pressure gauge, check and adjust pressures when tyres are cold, don’t forget spare tyre, remember to refit valve caps.
________________________________________
Example six
1. Open the bonnet, identify where you would check the engine coolant level and tell me how you would check that the engine has the correct level.

Identify high/low level markings on header tank where fitted or radiator filler cap, and describe how to top up to correct level.

2. Tell me how you make sure your head restraint is correctly adjusted so it provides the best protection in the event of a crash

The head restraint should be adjusted so the rigid part of the head restraint is at least as high as the eye or top of the ears, and as close to the back of the head as is comfortable. N.B. Some restraints might not be adjustable
________________________________________
Example seven
1. Open the bonnet, identify where the brake fluid reservoir is and tell me how you would check that you have a safe level of hydraulic brake fluid.

Identify reservoir, check level against high/low markings.

2. Tell me how you would check the tyres to ensure that they have sufficient tread depth and that their general condition is safe to use on the road.

No cuts and bulges, 1.6mm of tread depth across the central ¾ of the breadth of the tyre and around the entire outer circumference.
________________________________________
Example eight
1. Show me how you would check that the horn is working (off road only).

Check is carried out by using control (turn on ignition if necessary).

2. Tell me how you would check the tyres to ensure that they have sufficient tread depth and that their general condition is safe to use on the road.

No cuts and bulges, 1.6mm of tread depth across the central ¾ of the breadth of the tyre and around the entire outer circumference.
________________________________________
Example nine
1. Tell me how you would check that the brakes are working before starting a journey.

Brakes should not feel spongy or slack. Brakes should be tested as you set off. Vehicle should not pull to one side.

2. Show me how you would clean the windscreen using the windscreen washer and wipers

Operate control to wash and wipe windscreen (turn ignition on if necessary.)
________________________________________
Example ten
1. Tell me how you would check that the headlights & tail lights are working. (No need to exit vehicle)

Explanation: Operate switch (turn on ignition if necessary), then walk round vehicle. (As this is a “Tell Me” question, there is no need to physically check the lights.)

2. Show me how you would set the demister controls to clear all the windows effectively, this should include both front and rear screens

Set all relevant controls including; fan, temperature, air direction / source and heated screen to clear windscreen and windows. Engine does not have to be started for this demonstration
 
________________________________________
Example eleven
1. Show me how you would switch on the rear fog light(s) and explain when you would use it/them. (No need to exit vehicle)

Operate switch (turn on dipped headlights and ignition if necessary). Check warning light is on. Explain use.

2. Tell me how you would know if there was a problem with your anti lock braking system

Warning light should illuminate if there is a fault with the anti lock braking system
________________________________________
Example twelve
1. Show me how you would check that the brake lights are working on this car. (I can assist you, if you need to switch the ignition on, please don’t start the engine)

Operate brake pedal, make use of reflections in windows, garage doors, etc, or ask someone to help. (may need to switch ignition on, prompt not to start engine)

2. Tell me how you would check that the headlights & tail lights are working. (No need to exit vehicle)

Explanation: Operate switch (turn on ignition if necessary), then walk round vehicle. (As this is a “Tell Me” question, there is no need to physically check the lights.)

________________________________________
Example thirteen
1. Show me how you switch your headlight from dipped to main beam and explain how you would know the main beam is on whilst inside the car

Operate switch (with ignition or engine on if necessary), check with main beam warning light

2. Tell me how you would know if there was a problem with your anti lock braking system

Warning light should illuminate if there is a fault with the anti lock braking system

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Following are a list of the DSA Test routes, these are the official routes in which the examiner may take you on your test day! These will help for revision purposes please select from the list below:

DSA Learner Drivng Test Routes 1 - 5

DSA Learner Drivng Test Routes 6 - 10

DSA Learner Drivng Test Routes 11 - 15

DSA Learner Drivng Test Routes 16 - 20

DSA Learner Drivng Test Routes 21 - 25

DSA Extended Test Routes 1 - 6

DSA ADI Routes 1 - 5

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Driving Test Centre Wolverhampton

Wolverhampton driving school cover the Wolverhampton Test Centre, following is general contact information for wolverhampton test centre:

Ashland Street
Wolverhampton
West Midlands
WV3 0BX

View A Map

Tests Date Availability:

Car Appointment availability: 8 weeks
Motorcycle Appointment availability: 7 weeks

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Example one
1. Open the bonnet, identify where you would check the engine oil level and tell me how you would check that the engine has sufficient oil.

Identify dipstick / oil level indicator, describe check of oil level against the minimum/maximum markers.

2. Show me / explain how you would check that the power assisted steering is working before starting a journey.

If the steering becomes heavy the system may not be working properly. Before starting a journey two simple checks can be made. Gentle pressure on the steering wheel, maintained while the engine is started, should result in a slight but noticeable movement as the system begins to operate.Alternatively turning the steering wheel just after moving off will give an immediate indication that the power assistance is functioning

________________________________________

Example two
1. Open the bonnet, identify where you would check the engine coolant level and tell me how you would check that the engine has the correct level.

Identify high/low level markings on header tank where fitted or radiator filler cap, and describe how to top up to correct level.

2. Show me how you would check the parking brake for excessive wear.

Demonstrate by applying parking brake that when it is fully applied it secures itself, and is not at the end of the working travel.

________________________________________

Example three
1. Identify where the windscreen washer reservoir is and tell me how you would check the windscreen washer level. 

Identify reservoir and explain how to check level.

2. Show me how you would check that the horn is working (off road only). 

Check is carried out by using control (turn on ignition if necessary).

________________________________________

Example four

1. Open the bonnet, identify where the brake fluid reservoir is and tell me how you would check that you have a safe level of hydraulic brake fluid. 

 

Identify reservoir, check level against high/low markings. 

2. Show me how you would check that the direction indicators are working. 

Applying the indicators or hazard warning switch and check functioning of all indicators.

________________________________________

Example five
1. Tell me how you would check that the brake lights are working on this car. 

Operate brake pedal, make use of reflections in windows, garage doors, etc, or ask someone to help.

2. Show me how you would check the parking brake for excessive wear. 

Demonstrate by applying parking brake that when it is fully applied it secures itself, and is not at the end of the working travel.

________________________________________

Example six
1. Tell me how you would check that the brakes are working before starting a journey. 

Brakes should not feel spongy or slack. Brakes should be tested as you set off. Vehicle should not pull to one side.

2. Show me how you would check that the headlights & tail lights are working. 

Operate switch (turn on ignition if necessary), walk round vehicle.

________________________________________

Example seven
1. Tell me where you would find the information for the recommended tyre pressures for this car and how tyre pressures should be checked. 

Manufacturer’s guide, use a reliable pressure gauge, check and adjust pressures when tyres are cold, don’t forget spare tyre, remember to refit valve caps.

2. Show me how you would check that the direction indicators are working. 

Applying the indicators or hazard warning switch and check functioning of all indicators.

Example eight
1. Tell me how you would check the tyres to ensure that they have sufficient tread depth and that their general condition is safe to use on the road. 

No cuts and bulges, 1.6mm of tread depth across the central ¾ of the breadth of the tyre and around the entire outer circumference.

2. Show me how you would check that the headlights & tail lights are working. 

Operate switch (turn on ignition if necessary), walk round vehicle.

 

________________________________________ 

Example nine
1. Tell me how you would check the tyres to ensure that they have sufficient tread depth and that their general condition is safe to use on the road. 

To cuts and bulges, 1.6mm of tread depth across the central ¾ of the breadth of the tyre and around the entire outer circumference.

2. Show me how you would check that the horn is working (off road only). 

Check is carried out by using control (turn on ignition if necessary).

 

________________________________________ 

Example ten
1. Open the bonnet, identify where the brake fluid reservoir is and tell me how you would check that you have a safe level of hydraulic brake fluid. 

Identify reservoir, check level against high/low markings.

2. Show me / explain how you would check that the power assisted steering is working before starting a journey. 

If the steering becomes heavy the system may not be working properly. Before starting a journey two simple checks can be made. Gentle pressure on the steering wheel, maintained while the engine is started, should result in a slight but noticeable movement as the system begins to operate. Alternatively turning the steering wheel just after moving off will give an immediate indication that the power assistance is functioning.

________________________________________ 

Example eleven
1. Open the bonnet, identify where you would check the engine oil level and tell me how you would check that the engine has sufficient oil. 

Identify dipstick / oil level indicator, describe check of oil level against the minimum/maximum marker.

2. Show me how you would check that the headlights & tail lights are working. 

Operate switch (turn on ignition if necessary), walk round vehicle.

________________________________________ 

Example twelve
1. Open the bonnet, identify where you would check the engine coolant level and tell me how you would check that the engine has the correct level. 

Identify high/low level markings on header tank where fitted or radiator filler cap, and describe how to top up to correct level.

2. Show me how you would check that the headlights & tail lights are working. 

Operate switch (turn on ignition if necessary), walk round vehicle.

________________________________________ 

 

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