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Sit in and observe driving tests

Who can observe driving tests
Driving instructors and supervising drivers can sit in the back during driving tests.

You can observe a driving test if you’re 16 or over, but you cannot take any part in the test.

There are different rules for filming or recording a driving test.link

Before the test starts
Turn your phone off or make sure it’s switched to silent.

‘Tell me’ vehicle safety question
You can help the candidate to lift the bonnet if they’re struggling, but do not interfere unnecessarily.

Where you sit
It’s usually least intrusive to sit behind the candidate, However, the best position is wherever it’s the most comfortable, providing you can sit upright with the seat belt correctly fitted.

During the test
When the test has started, you can:

take notes to help the candidate
change position to improve the candidate’s visibility during the reverse exercises

Do not:
answer your phone
prompt the candidate by coughing or nudging the back of their seat
nod enthusiastically or make excessive eye contact with the candidate - it can be seen as a pre-arranged code
The test will not be stopped if you naturally look left, right and behind you - but try not to put the candidate off.

At the end of the test
Listen carefully to the feedback so that you can give the candidate more detailed feedback later.

Speak to the test centre manager or follow the complaints procedure link if you have genuine concerns about how the test was conducted.