As with all major cities, Manchester suffers from high density traffic and congestion. As a result driving tests in Manchester represent more of a challenge than many other UK driving test centres.
The fast paced traffic along with complex road systems can often overwhelm learner drivers and as a result, lead to many test failures. However, good preparation is the key. Here’s some tips on taking a driving test in Manchester.
Experience
Gain as much driving experience as possible. Ideally combine professional driving tuition with private tuition from family or friends and try to use many of the complex roads and traffic systems located around the test centre.
Test routes
Examiners develop test routes that involve challenging sections. Choose a driving instructor who is very familiar with the test routes, particularly those tricky parts, of which there are plenty in Manchester.
Driving instructor
Your choice of driving instructor should be one that picks up on each and every error you make and not one that just goes along for the ride. See Good driving schools for further information on how to find a good driving instructor.
Test standard
When you feel that your driving is reaching test standard, take a mock test from a different driving instructor / school. Sitting alongside someone you do not know will provide a realistic simulation of the actual test, plus a fresh set of eyes on your driving ability may help to eliminate any weak areas.
MANCHESTER DRIVING TEST ROUTES
Test centre routes are available for many of the Manchester practical driving test centres. See the driving test routes section for further details. The routes aid test candidates in gaining an understanding of the various roads and systems that the examiner will take you on during your test. Routes can be viewed on this website or downloaded as an app.
Booking a Driving Test In Manchester
A practical driving test can be booked at any of the Manchester Driving Test Centres by either telephone or via the internet. Some of the test centres in Manchester involve using very busy roads and so may benefit test candidates to arrange their test during the quietest periods of the day.
Book a driving test by phone
Practical driving tests in the UK are booked via the Driver and Vehicle Standards Agency (DVSA). Driving tests can be booked by telephone or via the internet (see below). To book a test at any of the Manchester Driving Test Centres, see the book a driving test section for booking contact telephone numbers. This is an automated service, though a DVSA assistant can be reached by following the options provided.
Book your driving test online
The most popular method for booking a practical test is via the internet. Upon making a booking, the available times and dates will be displayed for your chosen test centre. To make a test booking at any of the Manchester Driving Test Centres, see the book a driving test section.
Rescheduling or cancelling the driving test
Driving Tests can be rescheduled or cancelled. Changing your driving test date can be done providing three working days’ notice is given. To cancel your test and receive a full refund from DVSA bookings, three working days’ notice must also be provided. Saturdays are also classed as a working day.
Manchester Test Centre Pass Rates
Throughout the UK practical driving test centres, pass rates vary. Certain centres, often in very busy areas may have a slightly lower pass rate and in this situation, some test candidates decide to take their test at an alternative test centre. The driving test pass rates section may show driving test pass rate statistics for your practical test centre.
Manchester Test Centre Telephone Contact Numbers
Your practical driving test centre contact telephone number (including any of the Manchester Driving Test Centre) may be located on your test booking email confirmation, or found within the driving test centre contact numbers section. Test centres must not be contacted to book, cancel or amend a driving test however (see above), and only to contact the centre manager if you have any questions or concerns regarding your test, for example if a test is still going ahead due to bad weather (See driving tests in bad weather for further information).
