When it comes to passing your driving test, it’s not just about your skills behind the wheel. Making sure your car is in top condition can be the difference between passing and failing your test. Whether you’re using your own vehicle or your driving instructor’s, ensuring your car meets the DVSA (Driver and Vehicle Standards Agency) requirements is crucial.
At Platinum Driving School, a leading driving school in Derby, we make sure all our learners are not only ready to drive — but also prepared to pass. In this blog, we’ll walk you through essential car checks before your test day and why they matter.
✅ 1. Ensure the Car is Roadworthy
Before your test, your vehicle must be roadworthy. The DVSA examiner can cancel your test if the car does not meet safety standards. Here are some things to check:
- Tyres: Minimum tread depth of 1.6mm, properly inflated.
- Brakes: Must be responsive and without any faults.
- Seatbelts: All belts should function properly.
- Indicators and lights: Must be in full working order, including brake lights and hazard indicators.
- Wipers and washers: Clean the windscreen effectively.
Using a certified driving instructor in Derby from Platinum ensures the car you use will meet all DVSA regulations.
✅ 2. Clean the Vehicle
A clean car shows that you take the test seriously. Ensure the windows are clean inside and out to give a clear view. Rubbish or clutter inside the car could distract you or the examiner.
✅ 3. Check Dashboard Warning Lights
Before your test begins, check for any warning lights on the dashboard. If any lights are flashing (e.g., engine warning, airbag), the test might be cancelled. At Platinum Driving School, our instructors always double-check this before every session.
✅ 4. Fuel Up
This one may seem obvious, but it’s often forgotten. Your car should have enough fuel to complete the test — generally around 40-60 minutes. Running out of fuel mid-test is an automatic fail and a waste of time and money.
✅ 5. Use L-Plates and an Extra Rearview Mirror
Your test car must display L-plates (or D-plates in Wales) clearly at the front and rear. Additionally, a second interior rear-view mirror must be fitted for the examiner to use. If you’re learning with a driving school in Derby, your instructor will handle this, but if you’re using a private vehicle, it’s your responsibility.
✅ 6. Ensure Legal Documents Are in Order
If you’re using your own vehicle, make sure it has:
- Valid insurance that covers a driving test
- Current MOT certificate (if over three years old)
- Taxed and registered properly
✅ 7. Practice Controls and “Show Me, Tell Me” Questions
Before the test, the examiner will ask one ‘tell me’ question at the start and one ‘show me’ question while driving. Be familiar with car controls — like turning on the dipped headlights, operating the horn, and cleaning the windscreen. At Platinum Driving Academy, our driving lessons in Derby cover these thoroughly.
🧑🏫 Learn with Professionals: Why It Matters
Learning with a qualified driving instructor in Derby ensures you’ll never face surprises on test day. Our instructors regularly inspect the vehicle before tests and teach you how to maintain car safety and readiness. All our driving lessons Derby packages include full mock tests that simulate the real exam environment.
⭐ Pro Tip from Platinum Driving School Derby
“You may be test-ready, but is your car test-ready? Don’t lose your chance because of something that could’ve been avoided with a quick check.”
📌 Conclusion
Your preparation for the driving test should include not just driving skills, but also ensuring your vehicle is fully compliant with DVSA regulations. A well-maintained and legally ready vehicle gives you peace of mind and helps create a positive impression on the examiner.
At Platinum Driving School in Derby, we offer the best driving lessons in Derby tailored to help you succeed — from first lesson to test day. If you’re still unsure whether your car meets the DVSA standards, let us help. Book your lessons with our certified driving instructors in Derby today.
📋 FAQs
1. Can I take my driving test in my own car in Derby?
Yes, but it must meet DVSA requirements, including insurance, MOT, L-plates, and an extra mirror.
2. What will happen if my car has a warning light on during the test?
If the warning light indicates a serious issue, the test can be cancelled by the examiner.
3. Do I need to check my tyres before the test?
Absolutely. The tyres should have a minimum tread depth of 1.6mm and be free from damage.
4. Does Platinum Driving Academy provide a car for the test?
Yes, we provide well-maintained, DVSA-compliant vehicles for all our learners.
5. How early should I arrive on test day?
Arrive at least 15 minutes early to complete paperwork and mentally prepare.
Read more related blogs:
