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Independent Driving Section Explained
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Independent Driving Section - Why was it introduced?
The reason for the introduction of the Independent Driving Section in 2010 was to attempt to give the driving test more realism.
The DVSA wanted to encourage 'independent thinking', by getting test candidates to show their skill level at doing an everyday section of driving.
Traditionally, the Examiner would guide the candidate for the whole test by giving directions.
With the addition of the independent section, the candidate has a chance to make decisions for themselves.
How it works
The Examiner will explain when the independent driving section is about to begin.
The independent driving section may begin at the start of the test.
If the test has already started and the candidate is driving, the Examiner will get them to pull over and stop before explaining that the independent driving section is about to begin.
Different types of independent driving
There are different ways that the Examiner can ask the candidate to drive independently. They are:
Using road signs and markings
The Exminer will ask the candidate to follow the signs to a specific location.
Using a SatNav
The Examiner will ask the candidate to follow directions given by the SatNav.
More Info: Independent Driving Section Example
Making errors on the independent driving section
The DVSA states that this section is a test of independent driving and not a test of a candidate's map reading or memory skills.
Therefore, deviating from the route is not a problem as long as any wrong directions taken are competent and safe.. This basically means that your driving will be marked the same way as the rest of the driving test.
Getting lost during the independent drive
If the wrong route is taken, the Examiner will simply redirect the candidate back onto the test route, then the Independent Driving Section will continue.
Forgetting the directions during the independent drive
It's perfectly acceptable for a candidate to ask the Examiner for the directions again before or during the independent drive.
Extra help during the independent driving section
If, for any reason road signs and markings are obscured, covered or not easy to see, the Examiner will prompt the candidate through that section e.g. "there's a van parked in front of the signpost ahead, you should be turning left."
