DRIVING STANDARDS AGENCY - NEWS

Your practical driving test will include approximately 10 minutes of independent driving.

During your test you'll have to drive by either following traffic signs, a series of directions, or a combination of both.

To help you understand where you are going when following verbal directions, the examiner will show you a diagram.

It doesn't matter if you don't remember every direction, or if you go the wrong way - that can happen to the most experienced drivers.

Independent driving is not a test of your orientation and navigation skills. Driving independently means making your own decisions - this includes deciding when it's safe and appropriate to ask for confirmation about where you're going.

Please note: The maximum amount of directional instructions you will have to remember is three.

The driving test duration will be increased to approximately 40 minutes to accommodate the independent driving section.

On the current practical driving test you will be asked to perform one set reversing manoeuvre either a Bay Park, Parallel Park, Reverse around a Corner, or a Turn in the Road.

You must practice all four set reversing manoeuvres, as the Examiner on the day will decide which manoeuvre you will have to perform. 

In addition, a ratio of 1 in 3 candidates throughout the test day will have to perform the Emergency Stop as a second manoeuvre.