Hello and welcome, in this blog we will be providing some information about extended driving tests in the UK.
What is an extended test?
An extended driving test is a court-ordered test which is generally more challenging than a standard driving test. It will include all of the manoeuvres, various types of roads and it will last longer than a standard 40 minute driving test. Below I have outlined what to expect during the test and what you will need to do in order to get yourself back on the road. I have also included some useful links which you will find useful.
So, your driving ban is coming to an end and the court has instructed you to retake your theory and practical test in order to get a driver’s licence. The good news is that you can drive as soon as your ban is over and you have passed the relevant tests, the bad news is that it may not be as straight forward as the first time. So, let’s take a look at what to expect.
Who needs to take the extended test?
You may need to take the extended driving test if:
• A court orders it following your driving disqualification.
• You are convicted of offences such as dangerous driving or drink-driving.
• The Driver and Vehicle Licensing Agency (DVLA) states this as a condition for regaining your licence after disqualification.
What to expect
The extended driving test is similar to the standard practical driving test but includes more complex driving scenarios, lasts longer, and covers a broader range of skills. It is a requirement for drivers who have been disqualified due to serious offences such as dangerous driving or reaching 12 or more penalty points under the totting-up system.
The length of the test will be longer than the typical standard test which is around 40 minutes, you will be on test for a minimum of 60 minutes and in some instances, it has been slightly longer. The reason for the longer test is because you maybe be expected to cover all manoeuvres – Reverse park (Parallel Park), Bay park forward and reverse, pull up on the right and reverse back for two car lengths, and potentially the emergency stop. The standard test will only include one manoeuvre and has a 1 in 3 chance of including the emergency stop manoeuvre.
Extended driving tests are usually more demanding as you will also be required to drive on a wider variety of roads including the dual carriageway if possible. Essentially you will be expected to drive as you would on a standard test but you will be doing this for a longer period of time. There will be 20 minutes of independent driving – the examiner will either ask you to follow a pre-defined route on a sat nav or they will ask you to follow signs (1 in 5 tests follow signs, 20%).
Below are the areas covered:
General Driving: You’ll be assessed on your ability to handle various road and traffic situations, such as junctions, roundabouts, and pedestrian crossings.
Independent Driving: You’ll need to follow directions from a sat-nav or traffic signs for about 20 minutes.
Manoeuvres: You will perform at least one reversing manoeuvre, such as parallel parking, bay parking, or reversing around a corner.
Emergency Stop: This is more likely to be included in the extended test compared to the standard test.
Stricter Assessment
Examiners will closely evaluate your ability to:
Maintain safe distances.
Anticipate and react appropriately to hazards.
Demonstrate a good understanding of road signs and markings.
The theory test for a previously disqualified driver is the same as the standard learner theory test.
Cost: standard test vs. extended test
In addition to being longer and more demanding the extended driving test also costs more than a standard test. A standard weekday test costs £62, a standard weekend; evening or bank holiday test will cost £75. The extended weekday test costs £124 and a weekend, evening, or bank holiday test will cost £150. The cost of the theory test remains the same for both at £23.
It is advised that you book some lessons with a government-approved driving instructor to help you prepare for the test. It’s always a good idea to sharpen your sword and weed out some of those bad habits, certain aspects of the driving test may have changed since you took your test previously and you don’t want to get caught out!
We have written a blog about how to go about choosing the right instructor for you, check it out – How much do driving lessons cost and how to find a driving instructor?
Passing the extended test requires preparation and practice. Here are some tips:
• Take Lessons: Professional lessons can help you relearn good driving habits and address any weak areas.
• Practice Defensive Driving: Focus on anticipation, hazard perception, and smooth control.
• Brush Up on Theory: Ensure your knowledge of road signs, rules, and markings is up to date.
What Happens If You Fail?
If you fail the extended test, you’ll need to rebook and pass before your licence can be reinstated. There’s no limit to the number of attempts, but preparation is key to avoiding delays.
Get the ball rolling
You can reapply for your licence before your ban/disqualification period ends. You should receive a reminder 56 days before your ban is due to finish and for the high-risk offender, it's 90 days before. The reminder letter should arrive via post and will contain a D27 renewal form. If you haven’t received the reminder letter you may obtain this from your local post office or you can download the form here, you will need to order a D1 for a car and motorbike licence or a D2 form for a lorry and bus licence.
It’s a good idea to get this done as soon as the reminder letter arrives as it may take several weeks for your provisional licence to arrive – due to the pandemic some students have had to wait 6-7 weeks for their provisional licence to arrive.
Final Thoughts
The extended driving test is a critical step for drivers returning to the road after a disqualification. While it is more demanding than the standard test, it provides an opportunity to demonstrate improved driving skills and regain confidence.
By preparing thoroughly and approaching the test with the right mindset, you’ll be well on your way to regaining your licence and driving safely for the future.
If you haven’t received your reminder letter you can check your driving record online to see when your disqualification ends.
Use these links to book a theory and practical test (or compulsory basic training and motorcycle practical test for motorcycle).
If you found this blog useful you may also want to check our 5 top tips to pass your driving test.
This blog was commissioned by Burton Driving School, we provide driving lessons in Burton-on-Trent for new drivers as well as previously disqualified drivers.