Taking the practical driving test if you have special needs
No matter what your disability is you will still take the same driving test as everyone else.
The practical driving test is designed to see if you:
- can drive safely in different road and traffic conditions
- know the Highway Code and can show this through your driving ability
As long as you show the standard required, you’ll pass your driving test.
Health conditions that could affect your driving
The law requires you to tell the Driver and Vehicle Licensing Agency (DVLA) about any condition that might affect your ability to drive safely. Find out if you need to tell DVLA about your medical condition.
BOOKING YOUR TEST
DSA provides a number of facilities for you if you have special needs or physical disabilities. When you book your test make sure you tell the test centre about what your disability is and if you will be bringing an interpreter.
Taking a test with more time allowed
More time might be allowed for your test if you have certain needs. This gives the examiner time to talk to you about your disability and any adaptations fitted to your vehicle.
You don't need to have a badge through the Blue Badge Scheme to be able to take a test with more time.
The independent driving section of the test
Your examiner will know what kinds of reasonable adjustments to make for the independent driving part of your test if you said you have special needs when you booked your test.
They might ask if you would prefer to follow traffic signs.
You might be able to choose to follow a set of directions, supported by a diagram. In this case there will normally be a maximum of 3 directions, although in some cases this can be just 2.
More information on taking your test
