Driving Test Checklist
Complete guide to preparing for and passing your driving test
1. Booking the test
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Confirm your preferred test centre and available dates via the Road Safety Authority (RSA) online system
Ensure your 12-lesson EDT certificate is logged and visible in your RSA profile
Check that your learner permit is valid (not expired) and you still meet all eligibility criteria
Pay the test fee (or have payment method ready) as required by the RSA
Receive and record your test appointment confirmation (date, time, test centre)
Check for any specific test centre instructions (arrival time, parking, signage)
The day(s) before
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Review the driving test marking sheet and familiarise yourself with what the tester will evaluate
Drive the route area of your test centre at least once, preferably at the same day/time of day
Ensure your practice driving (in your car or instructor's) is focused on the key fail areas: observation, road position, progress, mirrors/signals, speed, right-of-way
Do at least one full mock test with your instructor under test-conditions
Check your vehicle is fully legal: tax, NCT (if required), insurance, all lights working, tyres good tread
Things to bring on test day
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Your current learner permit (valid and not expired)
Photographic ID if required by your test centre (passport or driver learner permit)
Proof of payment of the test fee, or confirmation number if online
The car's insurance document, tax disc (if applicable), NCT certificate (if applicable)
The vehicle being used must display L-plates (front and back), in good condition
Comfortable clothes and shoes (not awkward to drive in)
Arrive at least 15 minutes early at the test centre
Make sure you have full view through windscreen/windows, mirrors properly set, seat adjusted, and ready to go
On arrival & just before the test starts
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Set up your seat, steering wheel and mirrors before the examiner arrives
Complete the "start-up checklist": seatbelt on, handbrake set, gear in neutral (or park if auto), ensure surrounding traffic is safe
Take a moment to breathe, focus, and remind yourself you know what you're doing
The examiner will ask for you to do an eyesight test and maybe show your permit — be ready
Listen clearly to the examiner's instructions. Ask for clarification if you don't understand something
During the test
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Remember: safe and consistent driving beats perfect
Mirror → Signal → Position → Move: make this your automatic sequence
Don't rush. Make decisions confidently but avoid hesitating too long
If you make a mistake: keep calm, correct it safely, and move on. One error doesn't mean fail if corrected properly
Finish every manoeuvre with mirrors and signal where required
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