At some point during the driving test you will be asked to drive independently for around 20 mins. This is to demonstratte to the examiner that you are able to follow route directions, whilst still driving safely. This can be done in different ways.

Verbal route directions, following route direction signs, or following a SATNAV system.

It can also include a combination of any or all of the above.

The examiner could ask you to follow the direction signs to a specific place or destination until further notice.

The examiner could give you a number of verbal route directions to follow, until further notice. (upto 3 instructions at a time).

The examiner could tell you to follow the satnav system until further notice. If the satnav gives misleading or confusing directions the examiner will step in to clarify where they want you to go. If the satnav fails at any point, the examiner will take over and continue to give you directions verbally instead.

Note

If you are asked to follow the satnav during the test, the examiner will provide the satnav which is a standard satnav used for all driving tests in the uk.

You do not need to touch the satnav, as the route is already set up in advance.

If you ask for a reminder of the directions, the examiner will confirm them to you. Driving independently means making your own decisions and, just like when driving with friends, this means deciding when its safe and appropriate to ask for confirmation of where you're going.

If you go off the independent driving route it wont affect the result of your test unless you commit a driving fault. If you go off the route or take a wrong turn, the examiner will help you to get back on the route and continue with independent driving.

If there are poor or obscured traffic signs etc, the examiner will give you directions until you can see the next traffic sign.