If you’re preparing for your driving test in Derby, knowing the most common driving test routes can be a game-changer. At Platinum Driving Academy, we’ve helped hundreds of learners pass with confidence by practising these exact routes that examiners often use.
Whether you’re taking manual driving lessons in Derby, opting for automatic lessons, or prepping with mock driving tests, these routes are your path to success.
1. Chellaston
Chellaston is a popular test area due to its range of road types — from quiet residential streets to busier through roads. It’s ideal for practicing roundabouts, hazard perception, and proper use of speed in 30mph zones.
2. Spondon
Spondon offers a variety of road types—from dual carriageways to complex roundabouts. It’s excellent for testing your lane discipline and mirror checks, especially around the busy Spondon roundabout.
3. Oakwood
With its blend of hilly roads and stop-start traffic, Oakwood helps learners master hill starts and controlled stops. The area also features mini-roundabouts that are often included in test routes.
4. Chaddesen
Known for its tight turns and school zones, Chaddesen challenges drivers to stay calm and collected in residential areas. Be prepared to demonstrate hazard perception and pedestrian awareness.
5. Pentagon Island
This iconic five-way roundabout is a true test of driving confidence. Practicing here will help you build solid judgment skills when approaching large and busy intersections.
6. Borrowash
A mix of village driving and open-road conditions makes Borrowash ideal for testing speed control, gear usage, and anticipation of potential hazards like cyclists or sharp bends.
7. Shardlow
Shardlow’s quiet, narrow roads often feature on test routes. It’s a prime location for practicing reversing around corners and parallel parking in limited spaces.
8. Alvaston Route
Alvaston includes long straights, roundabouts, and several tricky junctions. It’s also known for speed limit changes, making it important to stay alert to road signs throughout.
9. Moorway Lane – Sinfin Area
This area offers complex junctions, pedestrian crossings, and busier main roads. Practicing here will help build your ability to handle distractions and multitask under pressure.
10. Allenton
Allenton is commonly featured in driving tests due to its high traffic volume and varied conditions. You’ll encounter traffic lights, multi-lane roads, and frequent pedestrian activity.
🧭 Why You Should Practice These Routes
At Platinum Driving Academy, we incorporate these high-traffic test routes into our:
- Manual driving lessons in Derby
- Automatic driving lessons in Derby
- Refresher courses
- Mock test sessions
Practicing in real-world test conditions improves:
- Road confidence
- Hazard anticipation
- Speed control
- Test readiness
📅 Ready to Practice the Top Routes with a Professional?
Book your lessons with our expert instructors and gain first-hand experience on the actual Derby driving test routes. Our structured lessons, tailored mock tests, and one-on-one guidance can help you pass confidently on your first attempt.
🔗 Book a Driving Lesson in Derby Today
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FAQs Q: Are driving test routes in Derby published officially?
A: No, but experienced instructors know which areas are commonly used by examiners.
Q: Can I request a mock test using these routes?
A: Absolutely. Our mock driving tests in Derby are designed around real-world conditions.
Q: Do you offer lessons near these routes?
A: Yes! Our instructors cover all top driving test areas in and around Derby.