Why use a mock test?

One of the best ways to prepare a learner driver for their practical test is by putting them through a mock test.

The average driver needs 45 hours of lessons before being test-ready, but everyone learns at different rates so the instructor at Moseley Driving School would decide when the learner has reached that stage and put them through their paces.

When the time is close to the leaner's test date, we take them out on to the test route, conditions permitting, so they can get a better understanding of the layout and iron out any problems that they may encounter during their test.

What the test includes

The same marking system is used as the examiner and the test should take 40 minutes. The test includes all the elements of the real test to help the learner combat nerves on the big day. The elements tested on are:

• eyesight check – the learner would be asked to read a number plate from 20 metres away
• driving ability – the learner would be given directions and their speed, use of mirrors, and any other skills needed to drive safely would be observed
• pulling over – the learner be asked to pull over to the side of the road and safely pull out, they can do this behind a parked vehicle or even as a hill start
• reversing – the learner would be asked to either parallel park at the side of the road, park in a bay, or pull up on the right hand side of the road
• independent driving – the learner would be given 20 mins to take directions from a sat nav or follow Road Signs and their technique observed throughout
• show me, tell me questions – the learner would be asked one ‘tell me’ question and one ‘show me’ question regarding the safety element of the test

Other things checked

The instructor would look out for common mistakes that would cost points during a practical test. These include hands crossing on the wheel, hands slipping from the 10 and two o’clock positions and failure to use the handbrake when stopped.