When is the best time to book a practical driving test?

The decision as to the best time to book a practical driving test is best left to the instructor.

Deciding the best time to book a practical driving test is not a precise science. Allow me to explain a little further.

People learn at different speeds. Every pupil is different and because of that there is no magic formulae. Your instructor has to make sure that you are at, or very near to, test standard when they put you in for the practical driving test.

Before you reach test standard there are several benchmarks that your instructor will look for. The ability to forward plan situations based upon effective observations and the correct application of the relevant procedures. Learning to drive when all is said and done is learning to make your own decisions in advance.

Once the more advanced stages of the course have been completed and you can actually complete all of your manoeuvres reasonably well unaided and drive on all types of roads without too much correction then your instructor will be aware that you are entering the final phase of the process.

I often find pupils suprised at how fussy we instructors have to be over details in the final stages. We are teaching you to drive to quite an exacting set of standards. The procedures are all there for reasons which should have been explained to you. Do not bee too keen to set yourself up for a fall. Take your test when your instructor tells you that you are ready and not before. Your chances of passing it at the first attempt will be much improved.