One of the more recent additions to the driving test is a 20 minute section of independent driving. This could be using a sat nav or following road signs. Most people will be asked to use the sat nav, with only 10% of tests using road signs. The reason for this is to try and emulate a more “normal” driving experience for the examiner to observe and to check that when you are trying to get somewhere by yourself, you will know how to manage the stresses involved.

During your test the examiner will already have programmed the route into the sat nav for you. They will position it on the dashboard for you to see, its fine to ask to adjust it if necessary. Then you will be asked to follow the sat nav. Remember that this is not a test of your ability to perfectly follow the instructions. It’s more important that you keep yourself, and others safe on the road. Prioritise the road and the signs you are seeing over what the sat nav is saying. If you go a different way to the instructions, but you do so safely, that is not a problem. However getting to the correct destination but doing so in a way which would have endangered others is never OK.

You will want to listen to the instructions first and only glance at the screen to check the information if necessary. Remember that any time looking at the screen is time spent looking away from the road, which can lead to you drifting or not noticing risks in good time so you don’t want to stare at the screen. Once you have heard the instruction, look at your signs and road markings to help you to carry out that instruction, running your usual routines.

At the end of the independent drive the examiner will either ask you to pull over or continue driving, they will direct you for the remainder of your test.