10/12/2025
On its website, it explains: "It might sound obvious, but if you’re looking for an earlier driving test, you need to be ready to take it. With the driving test pass rate under 50%, it’s clear that many people take the test before they’re ready."
Wide shot of a father and son shopping for the son's first car together outside of a car garage. They are standing beside a silver car, and the teenage boy is smiling while holding the open door before getting inside. There is a sold sign on the car.
Videos are available similar to this scenario.
Do not take your test if you are not ready.
If you are not test-ready, do not go ahead with the test, study more and cancel in plenty of time. If you go ahead with the test and you don't feel like you can pass, the DVSA warns: "That ends up wasting their time and money – and it makes driving test waiting times longer for everyone.
"Remember, research shows that, on average, it takes people 45 hours of driving lessons with a driving instructor plus 22 hours of private practice to pass their test. So, if you’re thinking of looking for an earlier driving test, you need to be confident that you’re ready to pass.
Are you ready to pass?
1. You do not need prompts from your driving instructor
You must deal with every part of driving consistently, confidently, and independently, without any prompting from your driving instructor
You will be ready for your test when you are able to adapt to situations.
You should be able to see why developing your skills makes you a safer and more fuel-efficient driver. Find out about the 27 driving skills you need.
DVSA's email to people who have passed their theory test
The DVSA's email to people who have passed their theory test(Image: Sophie Buchan)
2. You do not make serious or dangerous mistakes when you’re driving
If you are making serious or dangerous mistakes during lessons and brush them off as "silly mistakes", the DVSA say you may not be ready to pass your driving test or drive on your own.
3. You can pass mock driving tests
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Take mock tests with your instructor
If you take them and always pass, it's a good sign.
Passing mock driving tests with your driving instructor will help you understand if you’ve reached the standard that’s needed to pass.
4. You have practised ways of managing your nerves
Being able to manage your nerves is essential for being a safe driver.
You should practise ways of managing your nerves to help you stay calm and focused when you take your driving test.
This skill will also be helpful in the vital months after you have passed your test.
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5. Your driving instructor agrees you’re ready
Listen to your driving instructor if they say you are not ready for your driving test.
Driving instructors are specially trained road safety experts.
They have extensive driving experience.
They know what it takes to pass the driving test.
They want you to be a safe driver, keep your insurance costs low and of course, enjoy driving for years to come.
