Learning to drive is an exciting time for many people. If you're learning or recently passed your test you'll be familiar with the theory test and practical driving test.
But what about an extended driving test? It's probably not a term that you hear very often but an extended driving test is different from a normal driving test.
Extended driving tests are court-ordered test. They are longer and more challenging than a standard driving test and are required if you are disqualified from driving. Usually for offences involving mandatory disqualification, such as drink driving or other driving offences.
At the end of your disqualification period you will need to apply for a new provisional driving licence and drive as a learner. You are essentially a learner driver again.
If you had a motorcycle licence you will need to retake your compulsory basic training.
In this article, we cover what to expect during the extended test and tips on how to pass your theory test, including the hazard perception test, and practical driving test once your driving disqualification period ends.
What To Expect During The Extended Driving Test
As the extended driving test is more involved, you will need to prepare, as you did for your original test, to give yourself the best chance of passing.
During the driving test, you will be required to take a learner drivers theory test and an extended practical driving test.
An extended driving test includes the following:
- Extended theory test
- Extended driving test
Starting at your chosen test centre, the extended driving test lasts at least one hour. The extended practical test includes more manoeuvres than a standard test. Rather than standard learner driver routes, you will take your test on extended driving test routes. The extended driving test cost is also higher than a normal learner's test.
Tips For Success In The Extended Driving Test
Although you will have passed both parts of your driving test before, it's easy to pick up bad habits.
In order to give yourself the best chance, and freshen up on how to perform driving manoeuvres, it's worth booking in for some refresher lessons or extended driving test courses.
Explain to your driving instructor the reason for needing refresher lessons and any areas you feel you may need to improve on.
Stay Calm & Focused
During your test try to stay calm and focus on the test. Use your positive previous driving experience.
Feeling nervous is understandable but remember to breathe and discuss any worries with someone you trust beforehand.
Follow Instructions & Demonstrate Safe Driving Practices
Listen carefully to what you're being asked to do during the test and if you're unsure, ask the test centre examiner to repeat themselves.
It's important that you can demonstrate not only that you're able to perform the manoeuvres that you're asked to, but also that you can demonstrate how to drive safely.
This includes being aware of the speed limits at all times, being aware of traffic flow, parked cars in a built-up area, and safe passing distances.
Resources For Further Reading
For further information regarding what to expect, don't hesitate to contact us for advice.
Conclusion
We hope that you've found this article useful in explaining what's involved in an extended driving test as well as preparing you for one if you currently have a driving ban.
As with all tests, failing to prepare is preparing to fail and it's important to seek professional help to give yourself the best chance of passing and making sure you make safe driving choices in the future.