6. General technical matters
Guidance for driving examiners on general operational matters.
This chapter contains advice and guidance on a variety of associated operational matters and circumstances. Any enquiries should be made to the technical standards team:
Technical Standards
technicalstandards@dvsa.gov.uk
Test candidates are assigned to programmes electronically by TARS (Testing & Registration System). Each programme must be allocated to the examiner named on the journal. Examiners must have access to their LDTM’s Outlook calendar and should make every effort to contact them for any test transfer approval.
Digital journals are visible a day prior to the test. If there is a ‘Check’ marker against a booked test, the examiner should contact the examiner help line as soon as possible. Exceptionally, if the examiner cannot get through, for example, a late change journal received for an out of hours test, they should ask the candidate to produce the relevant theory test certificates in the waiting room. If the candidate cannot do this, the test should not go ahead.
For a check on a Digital Journal, the examiner must access the additional information page of the Digital Journal by selecting the candidate’s name. This may still require the examiner to contact the examiner helpline as soon as possible as above.
Customers don’t need to bring their appointment notification to the test centre. Customers making a booking via the internet aren’t given the choice of a postal appointment confirmation. Their only choices will be an email confirmation or no confirmation required. This means there’s a risk that not all candidates will have an appointment notification to take with them to the centre.
Previously, the appointment notification asked candidates to take it with them to the centre. This had been used as contingency, particularly for out-of-hours (OOH) tests where there is no admin support available. In these circumstances, if the candidate’s name doesn’t appear on the journal, the examiner may use the e-mail confirmation as part of his decision-making around whether the test should be conducted or not.
During working hours, examiners can contact the contact centre for clarification of who should be taken on test. Currently, for OOH tests (weekends and evenings), if more than one candidate arrives for the same slot, and neither are on the journal, the one with the confirmation would be taken out. If neither has a confirmation, the examiner must decide who to take out and inform Support Services the next working day.
During working hours: In the event that more than one candidate arrives for the same slot, examiners should contact the examiner hotline for clarification about who should be taken out on the test.
During OOH Periods: In the event that more than one candidate arrives for the same slot, examiners should decide who to take out on the test and inform the Support Services team the next working day.
Test candidates are allocated to programmes electronically by the Testing & Registration System (TARS). Each programme is assigned to a specific examiner.
When informing Deployment of the test transfer, at least 10 minutes notice should be given when available, to allow for journals to be updated. If less than 10 minutes notice is given due to a very late swap then, for digital tests, a paper test report must be used and rekeyed upon completion against the correct candidate on the iPad. When any test transfer has been actioned, you must check that the correct candidate details are on the digital journal. If not then a paper test report must be used and rekeyed. If test transfers cannot be actioned in time for the digital journal to be updated then Deployment will inform the examiner / LDTM to complete the test on a paper test report and rekeyed.
A request for a test transfer must be made by using the electronic test transfer request form on SharePoint in the Driving Examiner Documents section. All information must be fully completed, clearly indicating who the donor and recipient examiners are in all instances. This will prepopulate the electronic DL91 Test Transfer Log.
Without exception, all test transfers must be authorised by an LDTM or above. Where a manager is not available to authorise the transfer of the test, a transfer can be instigated by the staff member in consultation with Deployment; however, it is the staff member’s responsibility to ensure the line manager is informed as soon as possible. For each transfer, please complete all fields; giving details of the requesting person (name and grade).
It is not possible to list all of the reasons why a test should or should not be transferred. All staff should be mindful that, with the exclusion of tests transferred due to sickness or management activity, any transfer is an exceptional event and not a common occurrence. Security and integrity of the test are of the utmost importance.
In all circumstances, any test transferred between examiners for any reason must be recorded on the electronic DL91.
In all circumstances, each transfer should be recorded individually on the electronic DL91 by the examiner requesting the change; showing the donor, recipient and application reference for each customer.
The 185-day residency requirement applies to all candidates who apply for a GB provisional licence before they attend to take a test. If the candidate refuses to sign, the test must not be conducted.
Candidates who present for an extended test do not have to satisfy the residency requirement.
If, during the test, the candidate made it clear that they had signed the residency declaration in error and wished to retract it, the test would need to be terminated as the candidate would no longer satisfy the residency requirement.
The test would be recorded as a code 70 – candidate refused to sign the residency declaration and the examiner should make a comprehensive note of the circumstances on Digital Test Report.
The candidate shouldn’t be questioned along these lines during the test as this could distract them and affect their performance. Once the test has started, any discussion regarding residency requirements must only be done at the end of the test and not during it.
The photograph on a photocard driving licence expires after 10 years, although in most circumstances, the entitlement to drive remains (until aged 70) even if the photograph has expired. DVLA writes to all licence holders when their photograph expires advising that they must get a new photo to update their photocard driving licence. However, there may be occasions where a candidate presents for a test with an expired photograph on their photocard driving licence. In these circumstances, the following procedures should be followed:
- Candidate arrives for test with an expired photocard driving licence and the examiner is satisfied that the photograph is a true likeness of the candidate; the examiner should take the test. If the candidate fails the test, they should be advised to apply to DVLA to have their photocard licence updated. If the candidate passes, the examiner should return the licence and advise them, they will need to apply to DVLA for their new photocard licence
- Candidate arrives for test with an expired photocard driving licence, but the examiner is not satisfied that the photograph is a true likeness of the candidate. The examiner should not conduct the test and should advise the candidate to apply to DVLA and update their photocard licence
Candidates are only required to provide a passport to support their identity where they have a British or EU old-style paper driving licence. The passport does not have to be a UK passport, but holders of non-UK passports should check that they are eligible to take a driving test here. For those taking the ADI test of instructional ability, the trainee licence is accepted instead of a passport. If the candidate does not have the correct documents, then he/she will not be able to take the driving test and may lose their booking fee.
Note: Photocopies and screenshots/scans of documents are not acceptable if they are the only form of ID. If a test is not conducted, a full report of the circumstances should be made on the Digital Test Report.
The regulations give examiners the discretion to proceed with a test where evidence of a TT pass is available, even if the certificate is not produced. That discretion must be exercised reasonably, taking into account the circumstances of the particular case.
In case of an integrity marker on the journal, the examiner must contact Customer Services to establish if there is a valid Theory Test certificate on record. If there is no valid Theory Certificate on record, then the candidate must produce the original document or a duplicate copy issued by DVSA as a pdf (this can be printed or presented electronically) at the start of the test, but the examiner must see the accompanying email from DVSA. If there is no evidence of a theory test pass, the test should be terminated.
If the candidate’s name or gender differs from the details on the journal or their driving licence, the examiner needs to discretely establish their identity. If the examiner is satisfied that the identity of the candidate is correct, the test can continue without the need to see any supporting evidence such as a marriage certificate, divorce papers, deed poll, or a gender reassignment certificate. However, if the identity of the candidate can’t be established, the test can’t proceed. In this instance, advise the candidate to visit the GOV.UK website www.gov.uk/change-name-driving-licence, which covers changing the name or gender on the driving licence.
In all instances of a change of name or gender, the ADLI (Automated Driving Licence Issue) route cannot be used.
If it becomes apparent during the test, e.g., from police enquiries, that the candidate’s driving licence or insurance is not in order, the test should be terminated, and a note made in the additional comments section of the Digital Test Report.
Northern Ireland licences have an 8-digit driving licence number. They are not eligible for the ADLI route; successful candidates must have their licence returned to them.
Northern Ireland ordinary driving licences and LGV drivers’ licences, full and provisional, are valid in Great Britain. Full licences may be exchanged for equivalent British licences without the need to pass a test.
Note: Northern Ireland licences issued prior to 1989 had no provision for a signature but do have provision for a photograph. If the candidate can be identified from the photograph, the test should proceed.
The hijab covers the head; when the head covering is worn in conjunction with a veil, this is known as a niqab.
Whenever possible, a female examiner should request the removal of the niqab to verify the identity of the candidate. This should be done in a courteous manner with an explanation as to the purpose of the request.
If a female examiner isn’t available, the candidate should be asked if they would prefer a female ADI or a friend or relative to accompany them when the identification of the candidate takes place. This identification should take place, if possible, in a private area. If a candidate wearing a niqab refuses under any circumstances to reveal her face, examiners should advise the candidate that the test can’t be conducted and that they will lose their test fee.
Where the journal or driving licence shows that the candidate is below the required age for the category of vehicle being used for the test, the examiner should make discreet enquiries, away from the waiting room area, to establish the correct age. If these enquiries confirm the candidate is underage, the test should be terminated.
However, examiners are reminded that the minimum age to drive vehicles in category F and AM is 16; and for category B (and B automatic) when the person is in receipt of the higher rate of Disability Living Allowance (or equivalent).
Where an underaged candidate is only discovered at the end of a passed test, the examiner should issue the DVSA10 without comment and report the matter to Support Services, who will inform MI and DVLA.
The eyesight test must be carried out in good daylight. Care should be taken to select a clean number plate on a vehicle, which can be clearly viewed. The candidate should first be asked to read a number plate containing symbols 79 mm high and 50 millimetres wide, which is obviously more than 20 metres away.
If the candidate is unsuccessful, they should be asked to read another plate and, if necessary, allowed to walk forward until it is just over the appropriate distance away.
If the second plate is not read correctly, the examiner must use the official tape to measure the precise distance from a third plate.
If the candidate fails to read the third plate, and the examiner is satisfied beyond doubt of their inability to comply with the eyesight requirement, they should be informed they have not reached the required eyesight standard, this means they have not passed, and the remainder of the test will not be carried out. Fail due to eyesight (code 3) should be recorded on Digital Test Report along with a note `Tape used’ showing size of symbol and measured distance inserted in the additional comments section of the Digital Test Report, together with the correct number and the candidate’s interpretation of it.
The D255 must be completed electronically and e-mailed to DVLA, copies are stored electronically for inspection by the LDTM. For Digital Test Reports, an end-of-test summary will be issued.
A candidate must never be asked to read a number plate at a distance less than 20 metres. If the candidate uses glasses to read a number plate and then removes them to drive, the examiner should point out that, if they can only read the plate with the aid of glasses, the law requires them to be worn whenever they are driving. If they subsequently take them off during the drive, they should be informed that unless they are worn when driving, the test will be terminated.
Note: If you are aware a candidate has dyslexia you should establish if any adjustments are required for the eyesight test. Black on Yellow is ordinarily easier to distinguish by most dyslexic candidates. They may also read back to front or in a non-uniform order and may have difficulty distinguishing between certain images, for example, B & 8, D & O, 5 & S. They may find it easier to write down the letters and numbers rather than reading them out - this is deemed to be a reasonable adjustment.
The eyesight test is a legal requirement, and the correct procedure must be carried out. However, providing the test is not undermined, examiners should exercise their judgement where the numbers or letters are ambiguous. The following advice may help examiners to deal with unusual situations:
If at any time prior to the eyesight test it transpires that a candidate is without their glasses, or has the wrong ones, they should be told that if they take and fail the eyesight test, their driving test will be terminated. If the candidate elects to continue the examiner should proceed with the test in the normal way. If the candidate attempts to read a number plate, with or without glasses, but is unable to do so, and then explains that they have either lost or broken their glasses or have brought the wrong ones, the test result must be recorded as termination - Code 82: Incorrect or No Lenses Worn.
If the light is suitable for testing but nevertheless cannot be considered `good daylight’, the candidate may, if necessary, be asked to read a number plate at the measured distance. However, if they cannot do so, they should not be regarded as having failed, and the test should be terminated (code 66) and the circumstances reported to Deployments.
Customers with a disability
In cases where a customer has a disability such as paraplegia, the examiner may need to adapt the process to ensure the eyesight test is conducted fairly and practically. For instance, the customer may be allowed to drive a short distance to position their vehicle in a suitable location for the test. In such situations, the examiner can conduct the eyesight test from inside the customer’s car to accommodate their needs while maintaining the required distance and standards.
Bioptic (Telescope) spectacles:
DVLA Drivers’ Medical Group has advised that bioptic devices are currently not acceptable for driving in Great Britain. Consequently, if a candidate attends for test with bioptic (telescope) spectacles, the eyesight test must not commence if they try to use one of these devices.
At the request of DVLA, special eyesight tests are conducted on certain applicants for driving licences. LDTMs will carry out or will arrange for the tests to be carried out, in consultation with Regional Operations Support (ROS). The test to be administered is the eyesight test as carried out on a normal driving test.
Before moving away, candidates must be asked one ‘tell me’ vehicle safety check question. Whilst on the move, candidates must be asked to demonstrate one ‘show me’ question. To ensure uniformity, the questions must be selected from those listed in the DT1. For the Digital Test Report, the ‘Tell Me’ question used must be recorded on the Digital Test Report before commencing the test report page. The ’Show Me’ question must be recorded on the Digital Test Report at the end of the test. As a general rule, the questions should be used in rotation. However, examiners will need to exercise common sense and discretion at times, for example, in deciding whether a question that involves opening the bonnet is appropriate in high winds or heavy rain. Examiners should choose a suitable road to ask the ‘on the move show me’ question.
Although some checks may involve the candidate in opening the bonnet to identify where fluid levels would be checked, candidates must not be asked to touch a hot engine or physically check the fluid levels.
Where a special need prevents a candidate from carrying out a practical activity for the ‘tell me’ question, they should be asked to demonstrate understanding by oral explanation. However, they should be expected to carry out the ‘show me’ question on the move. Reasonable consideration must be adopted in disability cases, and if adaptations do not allow candidates to operate all controls such as windows or demisters on the move an alternative question should be asked. Customers with adaptations need to be able to operate the horn and windscreen washer whilst driving as they are safety critical, they can also be used as one of safety the questions on the move.
Examiners must wear fluorescent vests (full jackets are acceptable but not mandatory) when asking the vehicle safety questions on the road. If necessary, candidates should be discouraged from standing in a vulnerable location (e.g., along the offside of the vehicle on a busy road) when carrying out these checks.
Apart from necessary adjustments, connecting the Satnav to the in-car power supply, or when assisting a candidate with a physical check of direction indicators, examiners must not operate or adjust the controls or fittings of a test vehicle. Other adjustments, including to dashcams, can only be made with the candidate’s agreement, by asking the accompanying driver to assist, or where it is essential to avoid danger to the occupants and general public or damage to the vehicle or property. The candidate may ask the examiner to assist in adjusting the nearside door mirror before a manoeuvre. The examiner should not refuse this simple request and assist the candidate as appropriate. The candidate should not have to lean across the examiner to adjust the mirror.
If an examiner has suitable reason to doubt whether a vehicle presented for test has a valid Tax and/or MOT, then a check can be made using the Search App.
This check must not delay or impact the timing of the test, and examiners must not enter the car park/starting location prior to the test specifically to check vehicles.
If it is clear that the vehicle has no tax and/or MOT, the normal terminated test procedure must be followed and activity code 21 recorded. If there is an element of doubt or a suitable explanation provided, then the test should not be terminated.
The legal requirements on fitting of rear view mirrors, which are most likely to have a bearing on the conduct of tests, are set out below. They are minimum requirements, and, if an examiner is sure that a vehicle does not comply with them, they should terminate the test. The requirements do not apply to vehicles brought temporarily into the country by visitors or to vehicles in the service of visiting forces.
“Nearside” and “offside” means, respectively, the left and right sides of the vehicle regardless of whether it is right or left-hand drive.
From 1 April 2006, test vehicles used for large vehicle and vehicle-trailer combination tests (bus/lorry) and car plus trailer tests must be fitted with outside, nearside, and offside mirrors for use by the driving examiner during the test.
This includes practical tests to join the register of large goods vehicle (LGV) driving instructors.
Motorcycles, with or without a sidecar, do not have to be fitted with mirrors.
Vehicles first used before 1 June 1978 requires:
- motorcars: 1 external or internal
- goods vehicles and passenger carrying vehicles (PCVs): 1 internal or external nearside
Vehicles, including cars, goods vehicles, and PCVs first used on or after 1 June 1978 require:
- 1 internal (or one external nearside if internal mirror does not provide adequate view to the rear)
- 1 external offside
Goods vehicles exceeding 3500kg maximum authorised mass and large PCVs first used on or after 1 April 1983 require either:
- 1 internal or one external nearside (if internal mirror does not provide adequate view to the rear) and one external offside
- 1 external offside and one external nearside
Good vehicles exceeding 3500kg maximum authorised mass first used on or after 1 April 1985 require:
- 1 external offside and one external nearside
Note: Mirror cams are acceptable on test for LGV, PCV. The examiner should consider all normal requirements in regard to their own health safety checks and visibility.
Internal mirrors must be surrounded by a material that renders the edges and the material unlikely to cause severe cuts if struck by an occupant.
The registration mark can be taken only as a probable indication of the age of a vehicle as it may have been re-registered.
Examiners must wear a seat belt when conducting a car test. When fitted, seat belts must be worn for all large goods vehicle (LGV) and passenger carrying vehicle (PCV) tests too. In LGV/PCV vehicles first manufactured with seat belts fitted, the candidate must wear the seat belt. If the seat belt has been removed or damaged to the extent that it cannot be worn, the test should be terminated.
Seat belts for the examiner and any accompanying driver must be fitted to lorries used for test, including with-trailer. Seat belts must be fitted to all buses used for test.
Although the seat belt regulations do not apply to older types of vehicles, examiners must wear seat belts, if fitted, on all LGV and PCV driving tests.
If the belt is in proper working order but the examiner is physically unable to wear it, they should terminate the test and send a full written report to the LDTM. A belt may be dirty but still fulfil the legal requirements. An examiner should not terminate a test solely on the grounds that the seat belt is dirty. They should wear a dustcoat or weatherproof jacket to protect their clothing where it is reasonable to do so.
In rare cases a belt may be so filthy that protective clothing will not deal with the problem. If so, and as a last resort, the examiner may terminate the test. A full report of the circumstances should be made to the LDTM.
If the candidate does not wear their belt, the examiner should remind them that, unless they are medically exempt, the law requires the seat belt to be worn. If the candidate does not have an exemption certificate and declines to wear the seat belt, the test must be terminated. The circumstances should be reported on the DL25 or in the additional information section of the Digital Test Report.
Candidates are allowed to remove their seat belt whilst carrying out a manoeuvre which includes reversing.
When a third party accompanies a candidate on test (for example, an instructor or interpreter) and a rear seat belt is available and that person does not wear the belt, the examiner should ask the rear seat passenger to put it on. If the response is a negative one, it should be pointed out that for health and safety reasons and regulations they are required to wear a seat belt. If they decline to do so, the test will be terminated. In these circumstances, the third party has the choice of wearing the seat belt, not accompanying the candidate on test, or having the test terminated. In the event of a termination, a note of the circumstances should be made on the DL25 or in the additional information section of the Digital Test Report.
Should the ADI or accompanying driver choose not to and/or not be able to accompany the test, the examiner should ask the candidate if they would like them to be present at the end of the test for the result and debrief.
Examiners should be tactful, especially when dealing with a passenger who holds an exemption certificate (see below) and highlight the dangers of not wearing a rear seat belt.
Additional information on rear seat belt use:
- any rear seat passenger(s) accompanying an examiner during a driving test MUST wear a seat belt
- any rear seat passenger(s) refusing to wear a seat belt should not be allowed to accompany the examiner on the test—this includes a person who holds a seat belt exemption certificate
- if a rear seat passenger refuses to wear a seat belt (whether or not they hold an exemption certificate) and refuses to leave the vehicle, the test should be terminated
- should the ADI/accompanying driver choose not to, and/or not be able to accompany the test, the examiner should ask the candidate if they would like them to be present at the end of the test for the result and debrief
- when rear seat belts are not fitted to the vehicle, rear seat passengers must not be allowed to accompany an examiner on the test
If the candidate has only provisional entitlement to drive the vehicle used for the test, the examiner should explain that the regulations require the vehicle to display ‘L’ or ‘D’ plates clearly visible from the front and rear of the vehicle. Sets of ‘L’ or ‘D’ plates should be kept at the DTC and offered to the candidate for their use. The candidate should be given reasonable time to comply with the regulations. If they are unable to do so, the test should be terminated.
The Legislation requires we conduct two set exercises (one in reverse gear) on each test except Module 3b test. These may be conducted during the independent driving section of category B car tests but must not be conducted during the independent driving section of any other categories.
The two set exercises are a controlled stop and one of the following, which may be selected at random:
- reverse parking (either into a bay or on the road).
- forward parking (into a bay).
- pull up on the right and reverse in a straight line.
Examiners should ensure the random use of the reversing manoeuvres is evenly spread. Identifiable patterns (times, routes, and so on) should be avoided so that the random aspect of manoeuvre selection is retained.
A controlled stop must be carried out on every test.
To commence the angle start, the candidate first completes a controlled stop by pulling up on the left behind a parked car, reasonably close but not so close as to make it difficult to move away. The angle start exercise, therefore, combines 2 mandatory elements (controlled stop and moving away at an angle) as required.
The angle start (AS) box must be recorded on the Digital Test Report once the ‘controlled stop’ has been conducted on every test.
An emergency stop should be carried out on one-third of tests chosen at random. It can normally be carried out at any time during the test, but the emergency stop exercise must be carried out safely where road and traffic conditions are suitable. If an emergency has already arisen naturally during the test, this special exercise is not required; in such cases, the candidate should be told, and a note made in the additional comments section of the Digital Test Report.
With the vehicle at rest, the examiner should explain to the candidate that they will shortly be tested in stopping the vehicle in an emergency, as quickly and safely as possible. The warning to stop the vehicle will be the audible signal “Stop!” together with a simultaneous visual signal given by the examiner raising the right hand to face level, or in the case of a left-hand drive vehicle, raising the left hand. This should be demonstrated.
The examiner should explain to the candidate that they will be looking over their shoulder to make sure it is safe to carry out the exercise, and that they should not pre-empt the signal by suddenly stopping when the examiner looks round but should wait for the proper signal to be given. To minimise the risk of premature braking, examiners are advised to ask the candidate if they understand the ES instructions. The emergency stop must not be given on a busy road or where danger to following or other traffic may arise.
It is essential that examiners take direct rear observation to ensure that it is perfectly safe to carry out the exercise. They must not rely on the mirrors. If the exercise cannot be given within a reasonable time, the candidate should be asked to pull up, care being taken to choose the right moment as the candidate will have been expecting the emergency stop signal and may react accordingly. They should then be advised that the exercise will be given later and that they will be warned again beforehand. Alternatively, if conditions ahead are expected to be favourable, they should be reminded that the exercise will be given shortly, and the instructions repeated if necessary.
If a candidate asks whether they should give an arm signal, they should be told that the command to stop will be given only when it appears that no danger will arise as a result of a sudden stop, but that they should assume that an extreme emergency has arisen and demonstrate the action they would take in such a case. The emergency stop exercise must not be used to avoid a dangerous situation.
It is possible to include a normal stop or hill start at the pre-brief stage of the independent driving section. For example, when pulling into the left before the start of the independent drive itself, and/or between separate sections of the independent drive, e.g. when pulling the candidate up to give a further series of directions. For Digital Test Reports, NS and HS/DS must be recorded when a normal stop or hill start/designated stop has been conducted.
The candidate should be kept on route wherever possible. If a candidate is clearly reacting and planning for a junction but it appears they are taking the incorrect direction, examiners should give safe guidance as appropriate.
Please refer to the satnav SOP
Introduction
Independent driving has been introduced into all main categories of practical driving tests to help ensure instructors better prepare candidates for real driving conditions. It is not intended to make the test harder.
The candidate will be asked to complete a section of independent driving by following either:
- car tests: directions given by a Satnav or traffic signs for approximately 20 minutes
- all other categories: traffic signs, a series of verbal directions, or a combination of both for approximately 10 minutes
During the independent section of a car test, all aspects of the tests, i.e. legal requirements, manoeuvre, ‘show me’ question, can be completed. For all other categories, angle starts, hill starts, normal stops, and if appropriate, bus stops can be completed.
Additional information
Any faults assessed in the independent driving section of the test will be recorded in line with the normal criteria as prescribed in the DT1 ‘guide to assessment and marking’.
It should be remembered that independent driving is a test of how the candidate uses their forward planning and multitasking skills. It is not testing the candidate’s ability to remember directions.
On occasions, the candidate may ask for the direction to be repeated or confirmation of direction - in both cases, the examiner should respond in a friendly, positive manner. This is not a ‘prompt’ as the candidate will have instigated the query themselves in confirming/planning for the junction ahead.
A test should not be terminated, or a failure recorded simply and only because a candidate cannot follow the independent drive instructions.
However, in extreme and exceptional examples of the candidate having difficulty, the examiner can curtail the independent driving section and continue using normal directions.
This should be noted in the additional information section of the Digital Test Report.
Pre-brief
It is important that the candidate is left in no doubt about what is required in the independent driving section of the test.
There are two methods of independent driving for car tests, following directions given by a Satnav or following traffic signs, and three methods for all other categories, following traffic signs, a series of verbal directions (supported by a diagram), or a combination of both.
The examiner should pull the candidate up on the left and clearly brief the method required. Stopping for the pre-brief may be utilised as a normal stop or hill start, providing the road conditions permit and the correct wordings are used.
Cat A - examiners should tell the candidate that if they forget where they were asked to go, they should simply pull up on the left at a safe place, and the examiner will join them (the same as if there is a problem with the radio).
Cat C and D - examiners may, when using the following traffic sign method and providing the road is safe to do so, commence the independent driving section on the move. This does not apply when issuing a series of verbal directions supported by the diagram.
Satnav
The candidate should be asked to follow directions given by the Satnav. If the candidate requests that the audible directions be turned off, they should not be refused.
The examiner will operate the Satnav and select ‘drive’ when the independent driving section is about to commence.
If the candidate inadvertently goes off route, the Satnav may automatically redirect back to the route. However, if this is unsuitable or impractical, then the examiner should take control and direct the candidate appropriately.
Traffic signs
The candidate should be asked to follow traffic signs, for example, ‘follow the signs for A1 Edinburgh’, which could become ‘now follow the signs to Bathgate please’.
There is no need to stop the candidate to change directional signs as long as it is safe and appropriate.
Direction changes should not be given while driving in hazards, such as at junctions or when negotiating oncoming traffic, and so on.
Verbal directions: (not applicable to category B car tests)
The candidate should be given a series of directional instructions verbally, for example, ‘at the end of road turn left - at the roundabout turn right third exit - take the first road on the left’.
Whilst giving the directions, the examiner should ask the candidate if they wish to see a diagram. The examiner may also ask the candidate to repeat back the instructions.
This process should be repeated with each new series of verbal directions.
No more than three changes in direction should be given at any one time. However, four are acceptable in exceptional circumstances, such as when the instructions are particularly straightforward.
For example, ‘at the end of the road, turn right, ahead at both mini roundabouts, at the end of the road, turn left’.
Combination of traffic signs and verbal directions (not applicable to category b car tests)
The procedure is the same as set out above for each method.
There is no need to pull the candidate up when linking between the verbal directions and following traffic signs, as this can be done on the move.
However, before issuing verbal directions (supported by the diagram), the candidate must always be stationary in a safe and appropriate place on the left.
End of independent drive
The candidate should be informed when the independent drive section has been completed.
This can be done whilst the vehicle is moving, but again care should be taken with the timing of this instruction in relation to hazards.
Diagrams (not applicable to category B car tests)
Diagrams supporting the ‘verbal direction’ method are intentionally basic and simply show the general direction of travel.
They are not maps and are not intended to be to scale.
The diagrams do not stand alone, and examiners should, when issuing directions, do so in conjunction with additional detail when appropriate, such as:
- ‘Follow the road ahead; it does bend quite sharply. At the end of the road, turn left.’
- ‘Just follow the road - it is quite a long way. When you get to the traffic lights, turn right.’
- ‘It’s the exit after the supermarket.’
The diagrams form part of the route sheet, and the master copies are retained electronically on SharePoint alongside the associated route.
Diagrams should always be printed on the pastel paper provided and not on white paper (following advice from the British Dyslexic Association).
Examiners may include reference to appropriate landmarks in the verbal directions when showing the candidate the diagram.
For example, ‘end of this road, turn right, then take the next road on the left just after the big cinema, and then ahead at the roundabout’.
Diagrams should not be altered or adapted for general use (see the section below on disability, special need, language).
Although where required, in order to help the candidate visualise an instruction, a simple written prompt may be placed on the diagram - for example, ‘petrol station’.
Examiners should ensure that a ‘clean’ diagram is used for subsequent tests.
Disability, special needs and language – independent drive
Some disabilities may affect a candidate’s ability to read traffic signs, whilst for others following a series of verbal directions could be difficult. If a disability or special need is declared at the time of booking, the examiner’s journal will be annotated accordingly. (DVLA does not require form D255 for deaf, dyslexic, or dyspraxia candidates, unless there is a further associated disability.)
Where a disability or special need is declared or is apparent, and providing the test is not undermined, examiners should, wherever possible, adapt their approach to accommodate the candidate.
Some candidates might feel the need to use a variety of coping strategies when driving independently. This should be allowed wherever possible, without comment, and their driving performance assessed in the normal way.
When informed (either by the journal or personally) that a candidate has a special need such as dyslexia or dyspraxia, examiners should tactfully establish how severely this affects them when following directions.
In these cases, examiners should ask the candidate which is their more able method: following directions given by a satnav or following traffic signs. Therefore, if examiners are made aware prior to the test commencing, they should carry the satnav and peripherals to cover each scenario. Examiners should be prepared to:
- when using a traffic sign route, write down place names if the candidate is struggling to understand the place name
- limit the verbal direction section to just two instructions at one time. (Not applicable for car tests.)
- on the verbal direction pre-brief, suggest if it helps that directions can be given as ‘next side’ rather than ‘left’ or ‘right’, for example, ‘at end of road turn to my side, take the next road to your side and at the roundabout take the exit to your side. So, (showing diagram) that’s end - my side, then turn - your side, roundabout - your side. Can you repeat that please’? (Not applicable for car tests.)
- include appropriate landmarks in the verbal directions when showing candidate the diagram, for example ‘end of this road turn right, then take the next road on the left just after the big cinema, and then ahead at the roundabout’. (Not applicable for car tests.)
- if considered necessary to help the candidate visualise an instruction a simple written prompt may be placed on the diagram, for example ‘petrol station’. (Examiners should ensure that a ‘clean’ diagram is used for subsequent tests.) (Not applicable for car tests.)
Satellite Navigation systems (Sat-Nav) already present in the test vehicle: Use of satellite navigation in-car is becoming more and more common. Some are after-market fit; some are built in to the vehicle from new. These devices are allowed to be working (switched on) during a driving test provided the sound and any audible alert system do not cause any distraction. If the test will include independent driving delivered by means of a DVSA supplied Satnav, the examiner should explain the confusion that could be caused with two devices on display, and allow the candidate to switch off / remove the non-DVSA device. Occasionally, the positioning of an after-market device in a vehicle may not be ideal. Examiners should use considered judgement before asking for a device to be repositioned. We must not give the impression the use of such a device is unwelcome but should offer assistance if the presence of such a device may confuse the candidate
The LDTM is responsible for quality control of test routes at centres they manage and must ensure content is regularly reviewed. Test routes must be recorded in accordance with the standard operating procedure.
The completed test routes should be stored by the LDTM in the Driver Training and Tests SharePoint site. The LDTM should ensure, so far as is practicable, that examiners conduct tests over approved routes, unless exceptional circumstances arise which make it necessary to curtail or deviate from the set route. He/ she should also ensure that any deviation on the route is fully reported in the additional information section of the Digital Test Report.
LDTMs are responsible for ensuring that examiners conduct tests that comply with statutory minimum test time requirements as laid out in the DT1.
The choice of which route to use should normally be left to individual examiners. The HEO should, however, ensure that examiners use an even spread of routes so that testing is not concentrated in particular roads or areas. The aim must be to minimise nuisance and inconvenience to local residents. For category B car tests, examiners should generally and over a period of time, utilise the routes on a basis of 4 out of 5 tests deliver the independent driving section by means of a Satnav whilst 1 out of 5 by using traffic signs. This can be monitored using MI information and reading of Digital Test Reports and write ups.
Local authority traffic regulation orders may sometimes have an adverse effect on test routes or parking facilities near centres. If this is known in advance, the Agency can make representations to the local authority and may be able to secure some modification of the proposals so as to lessen their effect on testing operations. HEOs should therefore look out for any notice or reports about such proposals which may affect their own or other centres, both L and LGV, and encourage their examiners to do likewise.
Test routes are laid out and approved by the LDTM and should be adhered to. Whilst maintaining an element of urban driving in test routes, as much use as practicable should be made of available opportunities for driving on roads with national speed limits, including rural roads and dual carriageways.
Main category tests should include a section of independent driving nominated on the test route. This section should be closely monitored by the LDTM to ensure suitability.
Wherever possible, LGV/PCV test routes should provide a test of ability to negotiate a reasonably severe downhill gradient.
If, exceptionally, it is necessary to curtail or deviate from an approved route, a note of the circumstances should be made in the additional information section of the Digital Test Report. In considering possible alternatives, examiners should bear in mind that:
- Roads with gradients of more than 12% (one in eight) should not normally be used.
- Candidates should not be taken where road signs or markings are not readily followed.
- In the case of LGV and PCV tests, a very serious situation could develop if a candidate were directed to take a road which proved unsuitable because of insufficient headroom, weight restriction, or any other impassable hazard, and where the opportunity to turn back was too difficult to attempt or non-existent.
Vehicles with a maximum speed of not more than 25mph must use warning beacons when being driven on unrestricted dual carriageways. Such roads should not, therefore, be used for conducting tests with tractors or other slow-moving vehicles.
Every effort must be made to prevent candidates from joining a motorway. If a candidate does join a motorway, it will usually be safer to continue to the next exit. Stopping on the hard shoulder or emergency refuge should only be considered as a last resort if it would clearly be unsafe to continue to the next exit.
If joining the motorway is clearly the candidate’s fault, the test should be recorded as a failure. If it was not the candidate’s fault, the test should be completed and a normal result issued. If the test is terminated, this should be done in a safe place. If it was the candidate’s fault, a code 4 termination should be used; if it was not the candidate’s fault, code ‘38’ should be used.
Regulations differ between England and Scotland regarding what categories of vehicle may be driven by a provisional licence holder on a motorway. Highway Code Rule 253 provides summary information.
Tests conducted in England and Wales
The following categories are the only tests we can conduct on a motorway:
- Cat C
- C+E
- C1
- C1+E
- D
- D+E
- D1
- D1+E
Tests conducted in Scotland
The following categories are the only tests we can conduct on a motorway:
- Cat C
- C+E
- D1
- D1E
- D+E
C1/C1E are not allowed on test on a motorway.
Advisory speed limits are often used in particularly sensitive areas, such as outside schools, where it is considered that a reduction in speed would benefit the immediate community. They are there to encourage people to drive at a lower speed than they might otherwise do.
In common with assessing all other driving situations, examiners must:
- assess whether the driver’s actions are safe.
- not automatically record a fault if the driver does not rigidly comply.
In some instances, there may be mitigating circumstances, such as:
- in school holidays or at quiet times of the day, where there are very good fields of vision and low pedestrian activity, and safety is not compromised.
- however, there will be instances where exceeding advisory limits could not be considered safe.
Sometimes, especially in narrow residential streets, the driver may need to reduce their speed considerably lower than the advisory limit.
Examiners should avoid giving a fail disclosure to a candidate before a test has been fully completed. There are circumstances, however, where a candidate insists on knowing if they have failed or not before the end of the test; usually after realising they’ve committed a serious fault.
If pressed, the examiner should tell them but should do their best to manage this kind of situation and continue as normal unless the candidate requests the test to stop. Divulging a failure can demoralise the candidate and/or cause further poor driving or an insistence they don’t want to go any further. The latter can cause additional problems, as the candidate rarely understands the test stops at this point and the car moves no further (other than to find a safe location to terminate); a problem if positioned a long way from the test centre.
If the candidate elects not to continue, the test is terminated and Activity Code 5 recorded with details recorded in the additional comments section of the Digital Test Report.
There will be occasions when a candidate’s driving on test becomes so dangerous that the safety of the public, the examiner, and/or the candidate is threatened. In these circumstances, the examiner should stop the test.
The examiner should issue a statement of failure and tell the candidate that the test has been stopped before completion for reasons of public safety. In any case, completion of the test would have made no difference to the decision. A note of the circumstances should be made on the Digital Test Report.
When tests are terminated with or without a result on the Digital Test Report:
- the appropriate termination code must be selected and a description of the circumstances written in the additional information section
- the digital Journal will be annotated with the appropriate code after completion.
- the Terminated Test Log (TTL) must be completed
- the TTL must state ‘Digital Test Report.’
If a test has to be stopped away from the test centre, offers to return the examiner to the test centre by an accompanying driver/ADI should be accepted.
If the accompanying driver is not present, the examiner should suggest to the candidate that they might prefer to return to the centre with them. However, if the candidate is adamant they don’t want to return with the examiner, their wishes should be respected.
The safest and most convenient method of returning to the test centre must be sought. Every effort should be made to help a disabled candidate to return to the centre, possibly by calling a taxi or telephoning the centre for assistance.
On return to the test centre, the examiner should contact the accompanying driver as quickly as possible.
Examiners must not drive candidates’ vehicles. Strict observance of this instruction is essential as there are many situations in which insurance cover for the examiner might not be effective. Candidates are rarely familiar with details of motor vehicle insurance conditions or in a position to give the necessary permission. In any case, only third party risks might be covered. Similarly, an examiner’s own motor insurance policy may not provide full cover when they are driving someone else’s vehicle even with the owner’s permission.
Drivers convicted of certain dangerous driving offences are required to take a mandatory extended driving test following a period of disqualification; these will be identified on the journal. The procedure for conducting these tests is the same as for any other driving test with the following exceptions:
On meeting the candidate, the examiner should, in the pre-brief, inform the candidate that the test will take approximately 70 minutes and will be conducted on a variety of roads including those where the national speed limit applies
The emergency stop exercise must be carried out on every test
20 minutes independent driving (in line with category B test)
Successful candidates should be issued with a DVSA10 certificate.
The length of the driving part of the extended test is prescribed in Regulations as being of not less than 60 minutes duration. Examiners must note in the additional information section of the Digital Test Report, the time the candidate first moved off and the time the candidate returned to the test centre and stopped the engine. Examiners are advised to use the timer at the top of the test report page.
If someone drives away unaccompanied after failing their test and you consider this to be an illegal drive-off, then you could report this to the police.
If the candidate seeks to pull up where the vehicle would be infringing waiting restrictions or any other legal requirements, the examiner should point out that they would be breaking the law by doing so; usually, it would be better to intervene so as to enable the candidate to reach a place where they can pull up legally.
If a candidate tells the examiner that the car is parked some distance away, the examiner should accompany the candidate to their vehicle, provided that they can do so and reach a test route in time to complete a normal test. If, however, from the description of the parking place the examiner is satisfied that this would not be possible, the time factor should be explained to the candidate and the test should not be conducted. If this situation arises when a candidate arrives late for their test but is not so late as to involve cancellation for that reason alone, the examiner will need to take account of this additional factor in deciding whether or not the test could be conducted.
An examiner may sometimes find the candidate’s vehicle parked in a position from which they consider that only an experienced driver could move it safely. If the accompanying driver is available, they should be asked to move the car to a more suitable position. Otherwise, the examiner should ask the candidate if they are prepared to drive the car away and, if so, the test should proceed, and a note made in the additional information section of the Digital Test Report. If the candidate is not prepared to move the car, the test should be terminated.
Where an examiner has good reason to believe, either before or during the test, that a candidate is under the influence of drink or a drug so that it is likely to affect the control of the vehicle, they should inform the candidate that they appear to be ill and that, in fairness to them, the examiner feels unable to take or continue the test. The examiner will need to use considerable tact in announcing this decision and must avoid making any reference to drink or drugs.
If a test candidate decides that they are too ill to take or continue with a test, the examiner should terminate the test. However, an examiner should not terminate a test just because they consider a candidate is too ill to continue unless this is affecting their ability to drive safely or they are informed they have an infectious disease. A list of infectious diseases can be found at UK Health Security Agency. Pregnant examiners should follow guidance in the staff handbook and ensure they are aware of any additional risks.
Occasionally candidates in an advanced stage of pregnancy present themselves for a test.
Examiners may find the following advice helpful:
Examiners should not ask the candidate whether they are pregnant, as this can lead to an embarrassing situation if the candidate is not. It is the candidate’s responsibility to ensure they are medically safe to carry out all the requirements of the test.
If the candidate raises concerns over carrying out some aspects of the test (emergency stop for example), the examiner should tactfully mention that, in view of her condition, certain difficulties might be encountered during the test, referring in particular, to the emergency stop. The examiner should make it clear that they are quite prepared to conduct the test and should not try to influence the candidate’s decision in any way. If the candidate decides not to continue, the test should be terminated, and a report made in the additional information section of the Digital Test Report.
The emergency stop must not be excluded from the test purely on the basis that the candidate is pregnant. Normal test procedures (that is, one in three tests should contain an emergency stop) should apply.
Car tests
In the waiting room, examiners ask candidates if they would like to have their approved driving instructor (ADI)/accompanying driver with them for the test, test result, and end of test de-brief. The accompanying person must be at least 16 years of age. The examiner should where necessary tactfully explain the third party must not interfere with, or comment on the test, without giving the impression the third person is not welcome.
If an ADI is known to regularly observe their pupils on test, it’s not necessary to comment.
Motorcycles
If the candidate requests their instructor/accompanying rider to accompany them on the test, it should generally be encouraged, but examiners using their own personal car may decline such a request. If a hire car is being used, DVSA has no objection, as the insurance would cover passengers. Following a bike-to-bike test is permitted, providing the third party is on another bike and there is no interference with the conduct of the test.
During Module 1 motorcycle tests, instructors/accompanying riders are not permitted on the MMA.
LGV/PCV
If the candidate requests their instructor/accompanying driver to accompany them on the test, it should be encouraged, providing a suitable seat is available. If there isn’t a seat available, they can observe the safety questions, but they will be advised to stand outside the manoeuvring area to observe the reversing and un-coupling/re-coupling exercises. Instructor/accompanying drivers will be invited to listen to briefings and end of test de-briefs, but they will need to supply and wear Hi-Viz whilst on the manoeuvring area.
Driving test candidates can no longer use foreign language interpreters on their test. A driving test can only be conducted in either English or Welsh language.
An interpreter may accompany deaf and/or deaf without speech candidates for tests conducted in English or Welsh only. The interpreter must be at least 16 years of age. If a signer is present, it might be convenient to allow them to sit in the front of the car to explain the examiner’s requirements. This will normally only be necessary at the beginning of the test. In any case, the interpreter should occupy the front seat only when the vehicle is stationary.
Candidates who fail the test are naturally disappointed and may express dissatisfaction either with the test itself or with the manner in which it was conducted. This situation requires most careful handling; complaints about driving tests sometimes originate from comments made by examiners either gratuitously or in repartee to candidates at the time of the test or later.
Examiners must avoid commenting on motoring matters, driving or instructional techniques, or on any articles, books or illustrations dealing with driving or instructional techniques. Apart from the oral explanation of faults to candidates at the end of a test, examiners must on no account discuss driving tests in general, or details of particular tests, with candidates or third parties; nor must they suggest to a third party that individual candidates would benefit from professional tuition.
It is a long-established principle in the Civil Service that an officer should not put themselves in a position where official duty and personal interest conflict.
Testing of personal friends:
If an examiner finds on their test programme a candidate who is a personal friend, or anyone else whose test they consider it would be unwise to conduct, they should at once inform the LDTM who may decide to transfer the test to another examiner. If the position affects the LDTM, the ODM should be informed.
Testing of relatives:
Testing of examiner’s relatives should be conducted in the first instance by the LDTM or higher grade regardless if the examiner taught them. Exceptionally, if a senior officer is not available, a substantive LDTM from an adjacent test centre should be approached to conduct the test provided the LDTM has no personal connection with the candidate, the candidate’s relatives or the instructor.
Testing of DVSA employees
Tests for DVSA employees should normally be conducted by a staff instructor or an examiner at HEO grade or above. If this is not possible, advice must be sought from the Chief Driving Examiner or their Deputy.
In accordance with the Civil Service Code of Conduct and the Agency’s guidance on personal relationships at work, advice is provided in areas where personal relationships overlap with working relationships. This ensures that DVSA staff maintain the expected standards of behaviour and do not leave themselves open to allegations of impropriety, bias, abuse of authority, or conflict of interest.
During official hours, relationships with instructors from any field, such as car, LGV/PCV, or motorcycle, should remain pleasant and courteous, rather than friendly and familiar. Examiners should limit interactions to a polite acknowledgment or greeting in the waiting room or casual remarks to pass the time of day. Conversations with instructors should be avoided beyond these interactions. Any approaches from instructors involving complaints or enquiries, other than routine matters, should be referred to the Higher Executive Officer (HEO).
The agency does not wish to interfere with examiners’ private lives; however, a close association or friendship with an L, LGV/PCV, or MC instructor can raise doubts about an examiner’s impartiality when conducting tests. This could be construed as improper conduct, and attention is drawn to the general principles on conduct outlined in the staff handbook.
Examiners who find themselves involved in or developing an association or friendship with an instructor outside official hours must inform their HEO of the situation at an early stage. This notification should be made in writing to line managers, and written confirmation of this knowledge should be provided to the examiner concerned. This correspondence must be copied to the Senior Executive Officer (SEO) to take the necessary steps to avoid potential embarrassment to the agency.
New entrant examiners must relinquish any ties with a driving school. If any relative, including a partner, is involved with a driving school, the situation must be reported to line managers.
Additionally, you must inform your Line Manager if any relationship develops, as this could compromise the rules of the Civil Service Code.
Examiners must obtain authority from their Higher Executive Officer (HEO) before giving driving instruction to anyone. If the person concerned is a member of the examiner’s immediate family, authority will not normally be withheld. However, authority for instructing other individuals should not be granted automatically. Proper consideration must be given to each case, ensuring there is no potential for financial or other gain to the examiner, and that the situation would not embarrass the Agency.
In all cases where authority is given, the HEO must be informed of the starting and finishing dates of the instruction. Additionally, it must be ensured that the examiner does not conduct the driving test of their pupil. The HEO should be notified when a member of an examiner’s family is taking a test, so that an independent examiner can conduct the test.
Examiners are prohibited from seeking or accepting any payment, either in money or in kind, for driving instruction or any related service, such as acting as an accompanying driver or providing a vehicle.
Examiners must not accept gifts, money, or any benefit from candidates, driving instructors, driving schools, or their representatives, as well as any other member of the public with whom they come into contact during their official duties. Accepting gifts can be perceived as a bribe and may compromise, or appear to compromise, an examiner’s official position. If a gift of any kind is offered before, during, or after a driving test, the examiner should immediately inform the candidate that their instructions require them to report the matter.
If a gift or offer is made during the test, the examiner must terminate the test and complete a full report of the circumstances to be sent to the Local Driving Test Manager (LDTM), who must then report it to the Police, the Senior Executive Officer (SEO), and DVSA’s Counter Fraud and Investigations Team. If a gift is offered before a candidate who has failed receives the statement of failure, the examiner should complete the statement, hand it to the candidate, and report the incident as described.
In cases where a gift is offered after a pass certificate has been issued, the examiner should follow the same protocol. Although it is unlikely that the candidate will persist, if they do, a full report should be sent to the LDTM, who must then report it to the Police, the Operations Delivery Manager (ODM), and DVSA’s Counter Fraud and Investigations Team.
Casual gifts, such as those offered at Christmas, even if not connected with official duties, should be politely but firmly declined. If received through the post, they should be returned with a covering letter from the LDTM.
Similar caution applies to offers of hospitality, which should generally be refused to maintain independence and impartiality. Acceptance of hospitality could create obligations or be misinterpreted, compromising the examiner’s position. If anyone with whom examiners might have official dealings persists in offering gifts or hospitality, the matter should be immediately reported to the ODM. Examiners uncertain about the propriety of accepting hospitality should consult their LDTM.
Any attempt by a member of the public to offer a gift or reward, with the intention of obtaining a concession or recognising a service, such as a favourable decision on a test, must be reported immediately to the LDTM. The LDTM should then report the matter to the ODM, the Police, and DVSA’s Counter Fraud and Investigations Team.
In cases of suspected corruption, the agency will take all possible action, including involving the police, to investigate the matter. Failure to comply with these instructions could have serious consequences, including dismissal and prosecution.
Examiners should inform their LDTM and complete the appropriate form if it comes to their attention that an ADI’s or PDI’s certificate is out of date or illegible, so that the correct enquiries can be made and if necessary, enforcement procedures started.
ADI certificates are not legally required to be displayed during a driving test. If the certificate is displayed and an examiner needs to remove it from its holder, they should try to avoid causing damage to either the certificate or its holder.
In the normal course of their duties, examiners come to recognise the driving schools and ADIs who bring candidates to their centres for tests and to know which cars they use. The re-appearance of an accompanying driver or an unmarked car, particularly one fitted with dual controls, may give an examiner cause for suspicion. An examiner’s suspicions may also be aroused if a consistently poor standard of candidate is brought forward by a particular driving school or instructor, or if they see instruction being given in a school car not displaying an ADI certificate or trainee licence.
Examiners must not involve themselves in enforcement and enquiry work; it is particularly important that they do not question candidates or accompanying drivers or make any comments which may suggest that they have doubts about the bona-fides of any person who may have given driving instruction.
If examiners encounter anything in the course of their duties which lead them to suspect that an unregistered instructor is at work in their area, they should inform their LDTM. The LDTM should pass as much evidence (test reports, descriptions, vehicle numbers, details of possible witnesses etc.) as is available to the Counter Fraud and Investigations team.
Examiners have responsibility to decide in bad weather whether it is safe to conduct tests. For example: snow, ice, fog, or high winds etc. Deployment and the centre HEO must be informed of the position at the earliest time. Examiners should take into account the health and safety of both the examiner and the candidate when deciding if the test should proceed. In addition, motorcycle examiners must ensure that road and MMA conditions are safe for riding.
It may be necessary to inspect the routes to decide whether conditions are acceptable. Examiners should consider whether conducting a test or tests in the circumstances is in the best interests of public safety and a fair assessment of a candidate’s driving performance. Where a test cannot go ahead, candidates who arrive for test, or enquire by telephone, should be informed that tests will not be conducted. At sites that provide facilities for motorcycle training to take place on the MMA, it is the ATB instructor’s responsibility to make a decision on whether they consider the site to be safe to conduct the training session where there is no DVSA staff presence on site at the time of the training. Where a DVSA examiner is present, a decision can be made on the safety of the site, thus overriding any decision made by the attending ATB Instructor. Where this is so, instructors and candidates who arrive for training sessions, or enquire by telephone, should be informed that sessions will not be conducted.
If it seems that conditions may improve, those with appointments later in the day should be advised to enquire again later. Candidates who arrive at the centre should be advised to expect a new appointment automatically. In the event of prolonged interruption of tests by snow or ice, examiners should follow the advice on the intranet. Deployment and the sector HEO should be kept fully informed of disruption to programmes due to weather conditions and also informed when testing recommences. If a candidate telephones the centre to say that weather conditions near their home are too bad for driving, the examiner should tell them that the Agency will postpone the test and that they will receive a new appointment in due course.
Preparation of bad weather - journals
Digital Test Report and Journal: Once deployment is informed of cancelled tests due to bad weather, the digital journal will be updated, and a manual activity code should not be necessary. In these cases, the candidate cannot be rebooked later that day. If there is a possibility that the candidate can be rescheduled for later in the day, inform Deployment at the time when informing of the original cancelled test slots. This will allow for the candidate to be moved automatically on the digital journal. Activity code 61 should only be input on the Digital Test Report if, on the following day, the test is still active on the previous day’s journal. Full guidance is on SharePoint in the Bad Weather section.
Weekend OOH Cancellation due to Bad Weather: Contact Deployment if available and follow the process above. If Deployment is not available, then do not submit any cancelled test information until the end of the day or until it is apparent that no further testing will commence. These tests must still be submitted for activity codes to be processed. This will allow the potential for a candidate to return later in the day and the test to be conducted on the iPad and also will allow for the automatic rebooking to take place, if not conducted on the day.
Candidate Contact Details on the Journal: Candidate contact details are on the journal meaning that they can be contacted directly to tell them that the test won’t be going ahead. If this is the case, deployment needs to be aware that this is happening. Make sure customers contacting test centres for advice about appointments receive an appropriate response. When testing has been suspended, a member of staff should be present to offer appropriate advice to customers phoning or attending the centre.
When adverse weather prevents access to the centre, the answer machine should provide customers with the most up-to-date information. The message should say:
Thank you for calling the ***** driving test centre. As of today (insert date), due to the bad weather, this test centre will be closed. We hope to continue testing at (time) on (date), but this will be subject to improvements in road and weather conditions. Your test will be rebooked automatically, and a new date will be sent to you. Thank you.
Candidate Can’t Get to the Centre but the Centre is Open: Candidates may ring the test centre in cases where there is bad weather at their home, and they can’t travel. The answer machine should give them the option to leave a message. When completing the Digital Test Report, use activity code 62, so a free rebooking can be made. The examiner should regularly refresh their journal to ensure the details have been updated.
Tests should not be conducted with persons under the age of 16 years or animals in the vehicle. An exception can be made for designated caring or therapy dogs.
The Kirpan is an ornamental dagger and is one of the 5 articles of faith worn by an Amritdhari (Baptised) Sikh. This can be worn under or over clothing and is usually contained within a holster or case. As the Equalities and Human Rights Commission and the Criminal Justice Act 1988 safeguard the rights of Sikhs to carry the Kirpan as part of their faith, the candidate should not be asked to remove or cover up the Kirpan for the purposes of the driving test.
If the examiner notices that the candidate may suffer from some restriction of movement, which could be classed as a disability, make discreet enquiries at an appropriate opportunity. In the case of physically disabled persons, examiners should ask about any adaptation(s) fitted to the vehicle and how they operate in relation to the disability. This information should be recorded in detail in the additional comments section of the Digital Test Report and will be helpful in completing the D255. Care should be taken when the test is accompanied to obtain permission from the candidate before discussing disability issues.
At centres in Wales, when a test is pre-booked in Welsh, examiners should ensure that the Welsh Digital Test Report is active and the appropriate language selected, and if applicable a Welsh pass certificate issued.
When a test has commenced in English because the candidate did not apply for it to be conducted in Welsh, and it becomes apparent to the Welsh-speaking examiner that the candidate would prefer for the test to be conducted in Welsh, then the examiner should continue with the English Digital Test Report, and select the appropriate language section when back in the office, to record that they conducted the test in Welsh in the interest of customer service.
At the end of the test, and if applicable, the examiner may offer an English or Welsh pass certificate to the candidate.
Welsh Digital Test Reports should only be used for tests that have been pre-booked in Welsh.
In an effort to keep distractions to a minimum on test, all parties present in the vehicle must either turn off their mobile phone/tablet device or ensure they are set to silent mode.
Before the test on-road section begins, the examiner must:
- make sure their mobile phone is on silent or switched off.
- ask all other parties present to set phones/tablet devices to silent or turn them off.
The examiner must manage this carefully. There is no objection to an accompanying driver using a tablet device or smartphone to take notes whilst on test, providing the device is on silent and does not distract the examiner or the candidate audibly or visually (the latter may be by window reflection).
If an examiner feels that the use of an electronic device is causing undue distraction, they can ask for the device to be switched off. A decision to terminate a test must only be considered after every effort is made to ensure compliance with these instructions. Should the test be stopped, a full report of the circumstances must be written in the additional information section of the Digital Test Report.
Devices must not be used for any recording purposes, either video or audio.
Filming of driving tests is limited to the following circumstances:
- filming by external parties, for example, TV production crews with the agency’s permission, with the agency having editorial control of the film - conducted for promotional or educational programmes
- filming by DVSA officials for promotional or educational purposes for internal/external customers
DVSA does not allow the recording or filming of the conduct of any theory or practical test activity. This includes recording or filming by use of any internal-facing equipment fitted to any type of test vehicle. Examiners must not operate or adjust the controls or fittings of a test vehicle, which includes dashcams, except with the candidate’s agreement. If required, ask the accompanying driver to make any necessary adjustments.
DVSA is aware that customers may have external-facing cameras fitted to their vehicle (some for insurance purposes) and these are generally acceptable. However, external-facing cameras fitted to a motorcycle instructor’s motorcycle cannot be used when they are observing an accompanied motorcycle test. Rearward-facing cameras on a candidate’s motorcycle are also not acceptable. If it becomes evident that any equipment is filming an examiner conducting a test either visually or audibly, and it can’t be switched off, the test will not continue.
DVSA will not under any circumstances accept, comment on, or review audio/video media provided by a test candidate or third party to facilitate a challenge to the conduct of any theory or practical test or its result. Any footage received in connection with an allegation of criminal activity or intent will immediately be referred to the police.
Except for driving examiner staff with technical responsibility for the conduct of tests, no officers of the agency, or anyone else, should accompany candidates unless they have first received specific authority from the chief driving examiner or their deputy. Non-operational personnel should be asked to withdraw if a candidate objects to their presence on the test.
Candidates are required by regulation to allow an authorized person to accompany the examiner for quality control or assurance purposes.
- If the candidate objects, the accompanying officer should ask the reason and may decide not to go on test if there are special circumstances, for example, there is no third seat, or the candidate has been accompanied on a previous test.
Otherwise, they should:
- explain to the candidate the need for quality control or assurance to ensure, in the interests of all candidates and the public at large, that arrangements for tests are satisfactory and in accordance with regulations.
- quality control or assurance officers should also mention the legal situation and that the test will be terminated unless the candidate agrees to their presence.
If the candidate persists in his objections:
- the test should be terminated, and the circumstances reported in the additional information section of the Digital Test Report
- tests may be quality controlled by operations directorate operational managers and quality assured by Quality Leadership Team. They must use their discretion as to the tests on which they accompany examiners
The procedure to be followed is set out below:
The quality control or assurance officer should tell the examiner beforehand that they propose to accompany them on the test and should be present when the examiner meets the candidate.
When the examiner has completed the preliminary test procedure, they should say to the candidate:
‘(Name of candidate)…………… colleague will be coming with us on the test and will sit in the back of the car and take no part in the conduct of the test.’
In the case of a large goods vehicle (LGV) test, the examiner should first ask the candidate if his cab will hold three people.
- Officers intending to quality control or assure a test should not do so in cars where a rear seat belt is not available.
At the end of an accompanied test, following the comparison of faults recorded by both officers, and any discussion to resolve differences, quality control or assurance officers should:
- make their quality monitoring form available to the examiner who conducted the test who should sign it to indicate that they are aware of the contents
- the Digital Test Report should be marked in the appropriate box
An LDTM is required to carry out a minimum of 4 quality control assessments annually on each permanent examiner at their centre(s). Regular visiting examiners should also be assessed as necessary. These should be spread proportionately over the year between all disciplines conducted by the examiner, ensuring all disciplines tested are assessed.
In the case of new entrants, it is important that instructions laid down in the new entrant development plan are adhered to, and the appropriate supervision is conducted. Where examiners have taken on new skills, the LDTM must ensure that adequate development and quality control takes place to ensure new skills are consolidated.
To comply with normal procedures and customer service standards, it is important that all examiners are quality control assured regularly. When an examiner spends considerable time at another centre other than their own, either conducting car, motorcycle, large goods vehicle (LGV), or passenger carrying vehicle (PCV) tests, then the LDTM at that centre should carry out quality control after consultation with the visiting examiner’s own LDTM. At LGV centres where there is a LDTM, they should quality control examiners but not those LDTMs who are either stationed there or are visiting on detached duty.
For the same reasons, it is equally important that examiners who are employed on a part-time basis are regularly quality controlled. Quality control officers should make themselves aware of when these examiners are working within their area of responsibility and make the necessary arrangements for carrying out quality control.
All completed test administration must be accurate. Regular checks of all driving test documentation and Digital Test Reports should be made to ensure consistency of assessments and that the report reflects the assessment made.
Monthly:
- terminated test log
- test Transfer Log
- Spoilt certificate log
Examiners are responsible for registering and controlling stocks of pass certificates. A pass certificate register book (not a loose leaf type) must be maintained showing the serial numbers of the pads of forms held in stock. The book should contain records of all types of pass certificate used at the DTC. Certificates must only be issued in serial number order. For security reasons, the register must be kept securely and separately from the stock of certificates.
Receiving examiners should sign the register to confirm receipt. Any imperfect or spoiled certificates should be destroyed at the test centre using the shredder. The certificate numbers should be entered onto the spoilt certificate return form and submitted by email to support services: spoilt.certificates@dvsa.gov.uk at the end of each month. If certificates have been lost or stolen, the matter must be notified to Operations immediately by email.
If a Member of Parliament writes directly to a driving test centre, the correspondence should immediately be scanned into a DVSA iPad and emailed to: chief.executive@dvsa.gov.uk, to be dealt with in the normal way for Ministerial correspondence. If the letter suggests that a report will be required from an examiner and/ or the HEO, this should be put in hand in anticipation of the formal request from the Chief Executive Team.
HEOs may be asked to attend local driving instructor meetings and can do so on a voluntary basis provided they take place during the working week. The frequency of attending this type of meeting should not be more than once annually unless exceptional circumstances such as a test centre closure require an additional meeting. Your local ADI Enforcement Manager should be informed.
Meetings should be attended, chaired, and properly organised. It should be made clear that HEOs will not discuss individual cases or details of particular driving tests. HEOs should report back to their SEO any unusual questions and answers and provide a general overview of the meeting. HEOs should carefully consider their answers where questions are submitted beforehand and, if in doubt, discuss them with their SEO. Policy issues should not be discussed.
When examiners visit from other centres on detached duty or permanent transfer, the LDTM must ensure that time is planned for H & S briefing, any induction, and centre familiarisation etc. Short-term deployments will be given periods to learn a sufficient number of routes. Longer-term detachments may require more route learning time.
At centres where a Site Access Manager (SAM) works, either yourself or any of your staff should:
- ensure that all paperwork is securely stored in the pre-defined location. Specific site details can be found on SharePoint
- for all DVSA locations, ensure that any site-specific issues around test delivery are dealt with on the day
- for non-DVSA sites, minor fuel spillages are treated in the same way as at a normal DVSA site, using the Oil Spill kits that are available
- ensure the SAM reports incidents to Interserve on the HS5, leaving a copy for the LDTM in a pre-arranged place
- ensure that the DVSA Health & Safety team are aware of relevant incidents
- not interfere with SAM completing their duties, unless the SAM is failing to carry out their duties effectively. In such cases, the LDTM should highlight failings to the SAM and report to the Interserve Helpdesk
- provide test centre facilities to the SAM to allow them to complete their duties, as agreed locally