Driving test public health information for candidates

Before the test

Before the test begins:

• you should arrive no more than five minutes before the test
• the 'meet and greet' will be conducted in the waiting room, more details are available at: practical test for cars
• if you come to the test with clear symptoms of Coronavirus (COVID-19), or other respiratory infections, the test will not go ahead
• you can ask for someone to come with you on the test, for example, an instructor or an interpreter

Hygiene

The driving examiner carrying out your test:

• will wash their hands before and after each test 
• must be satisfied the vehicle has been recently cleaned
• may choose to fit a disposable seat cover to their seat before entering the car
• may use an anti-viral wipe to clean passenger touch points

Face coverings

It is strongly recommended that you wear a face covering during the test. This also applies to any observers or interpreters present. Face coverings will still be available and may be worn by examiners.

During the test

The driving examiner carrying out your test will make sure that the test vehicle is well ventilated and therefore may open the passenger window and rear windows at the start of the test and ask you to open your window.

If you become unwell during the test, the test will be stopped.

If you commit a serious or dangerous fault (or make 16 driving faults) that would result in a fail, the test will continue until you return to the test centre.  At the end of the test you will be offered a debrief.

If you have any more queries you can contact: Driver & Vehicle Agency - customer services.

More useful links

• Taking a theory test if you have special requirements
• Driving test fees
• A guide to booking your practical driving test
• Driving and vehicle test centres
• Driving test public health information for driving instructors