Independent driving explained

Since 4 October 2010 your practical driving test includes a section of ‘independent driving’. In the independent driving section of your test, you will drive for about 10 minutes without step-by-step direction from your examiner.     During the independent driving section of the test, the examiner will ask you to drive by either following a series of directions, following traffic signs, or a combination of both. To help you understand where you’re going, the examiner may show you a diagram. It doesn't matter if you don't remember every direction, or if you go the wrong way - that can happen to the most experienced drivers. Independent driving is not a test of your orientation and navigation skills. If you ask for a reminder of the directions, the examiner will confirm them to you. If you go off the independent driving route it won’t affect the result of your test unless you commit a driving fault. If you go off the route or take a wrong turning, the examiner will help you to get back on the route and continue with the independent driving. If there are poor or obscured traffic signs, the examiner will give you directions until you can see the next traffic sign - you won’t need to have a detailed knowledge of the area.   You can’t use a satnav for independent driving as it gives you turn-by-turn prompt.    The Driving Standards Agency has published a short video on YouTube explaining more about independent driving. www.borntodriveschool.com