Everything you need to know about your driving test
The link above provides a DSA guide to lesson hours and test preparation. Essential viewing for all pupils, parents and carers
Where your practical driving test will be taken
Test Centre, Palting Way, Folkestone, Kent
Driving Directions
| Latest Pass Rates at Folkestone Driving Test Centre |
Year | Car | Bike | LGV | PCV |
2008-2009 | 41.31 % | 67.17 % | 0 | 0 |
Peter Blight (DSA verified) 2008 – 2009: 66.67% Pass Rate
How will I know when I am ready for my test?
You will be ready for the test when you show that you have reached the standards set in The Official Driving Test.
Learners who pass first time do so because they are well instructed and get plenty of practice. They pass because
they wait until they are ready.
Your instructor has the knowledge and experience to tell you when you are ready.
Currently there is less than a 43% overall pass rate nationwide, which means the first time pass rate is much lower.
The reason for such a low success rate is because candidates are not properly prepared.
You must be able to drive consistently well, with confidence and without assistance or guidance from your instructor.
If you can’t, you aren’t ready for the test. Waiting until you are ready will save you time and money!
Guidelines to help reduce your risk on the road and pass your test first time
Clear your mind of personal or work problems before driving. The problems will still be there later – so make sure that you are!
What if? Focus on the drive ahead and its hazards – be aware that an unexpected hazard could crop up at any moment.
if you are not concentrating it could be fatal!
Remember that you have a responsibility as a driver to look out for vulnerable road users (pedestrians, cyclists, motorcyclists
and horse-riders) that all require your full attention. Scan from pavement to pavement.
Predict and accept things that annoy or irritate you on the road. Make a firm decision not to let them wind you up. Be the better person!
Avoid people and situations that cause you stress before driving or taking your test.
Calm, controlled breathing can help to release muscular tension and relieve stress. Practice a sequence of deep
breathing to calm your mind in stressful situations.
Ensure the driver’s seat, mirrors, and steering column are correctly adjusted for you.
Drive at an appropriate speed within the speed limit – driving aggressively, speeding and unnecessary overtaking is
unlikely to get you there any faster and could prevent you from passing your test, or arriving at all!
Arrange the time off to take your test well in advance of the test date.
Don’t tell the whole world when you are taking your test. It is an added pressure that you can do without.
Don’t plan any trips until the Pass Certificate is in your hand!
Get a good night’s sleep before your test. A fresh mind will concentrate your attention on the task ahead.
Accept that you will be nervous and focus on your drive.
Don’t go hungry – hunger can affect your concentration. Follow your regular routine. Drink to think!
Dehydration can seriously affect your concentration levels.
Plan an ‘unhurried’ drive. Rushing will only increase anxiety and the likelihood of an accident.
A calm, eco-safe drive will leave you relaxed and satisfied with your drive.
Finally, take a deep breath and remember the reasons that made you want to learn to drive.
Then remind yourself that with the professional training you have received, you are ready to pass your test and join
the millions that have passed before you.
The best of luck, Peter (and I'll even sit in the back to provide a friendly face)
More information here
DSA Driving Test fees
Show Me / Tell Me questions & answers
The DSA average hours to pass your test
Folkestone Test Centre & Test Routes Information
Short term insurance to practice for your test All the info you need about All about vehicle licensing theory and practical tests
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