Extended Driving Test

What does the extended driving test involve

For certain driving offences you may have been ordered to take an extended driving test.

You will only need to take this test if you have been disqualified from driving and ordered by the court to take the extended test.

If you have a driving ban for drink or drug driving, or if you have been disqualified for dangerous driving these are the main offences where the extended driving test will be ordered by the court.

At Andrew’s Driving School, we understand that the journey back to driving can be daunting, especially after an extended driving ban. Our dedicated team is here to support you every step of the way, ensuring you feel confident and prepared for your extended driving test. We offer tailored lessons that focus on your specific needs, helping you brush up on essential skills and manoeuvres. With our experienced instructors by your side, you will not only regain your driving licence but also enhance your overall driving abilities. Remember, every driver deserves a second chance, and we are committed to helping you achieve your goals safely and effectively.

What happens on the extended test?

The test will last for approximately 60 minutes. During that time, you will be taken over various routes, usually including dual carriageways. You are allowed up to 15 driving faults (minor faults). Any serious or dangerous faults will result in a test fail. You will be asked to do one of the four possible manoeuvres which will be one of the following.

• Parallel park
• Bay Park reverse in
• Forward into a bay and reverse out
• Pull up on the right hand side of the road

How do I get my driving licence back after a ban.

If you have been ordered to take the extended driving test, you should receive a reminder from the DVLA 56 days before your ban expires, if you don’t receive one then you can find the application form here extended driving test application form . You will need to order the relevant form, it is D1 for Cars.

You will then need to book and sit your theory test which can be booked here Book a theory test.

Once you have passed your theory test you will be able to book your extended practical driving test.

What is the extended driving test like.

The extended test is marked the same as the learner driving test, the only difference being that you will be out on the road for longer, expect the test to last for at least an hour as opposed to the 40 minutes on the standard learner test.

You will be asked to do one of the set driving manoeuvres such as driving into a parking bay, parallel parking or pulling up on the right-hand side of the road. You may also be asked to carry out an emergency stop.

You must complete the test with less than 16 minor faults and no serious or dangerous faults.

It is strongly advised that you take some further professional training prior to taking this test.

Will the marking be stricter on an extended test?

The examiner is meant to mark the test the same as the learner driving test, however he or she will know roughly why you are taking the extended test by the code on your licence, so if you have committed a really serious offence such as CD40 which is causing death by careless driving while unfit through excess alcohol,  then you may understandably  find that you are watched very closely.

You have the right to a fair test, and that is what you need to prepare for.

How much does an extended driving test cost

The extended test costs £124 on weekdays or £150 on weekend days, this is the cost for the test itself, if you are using an instructors car then you will need to factor in the cost of the instructors time and use of the car.

Getting your licence back after a ban

Once you have passed the extended driving test and you  have your licence back you need to take care whilst driving, you should note that the penalties can become more severe if you are considered a high risk offender.

If you get another ban within 10 years you may be considered high risk and may be asked to  pass a medical examination with one of DVLA’s appointed doctors.

Driving offences that may lead to a ban include

• Drink driving
• Drug driving
• Dangerous driving

How can I shorten my driving ban?

If you’re banned from driving for 12 months or more, you may be able to reduce your ban by taking a drink-drive rehabilitation course.

This course may be offered to you at your court hearing and taking the course can potentially reduce your ban by up to 25%. 

At the time of writing the drink drive rehabilitation course costs £250.