Driving test certificate: Complete guide

Undoubtedly, the day you receive your driving certificate or provisional driver’s licence is an exciting one. But the work behind it can be daunting at first. Yet, there are simple steps you can take to help you pass your test. Have a look at our guide to make sure you embark on the road to success.

How can I pass my driving test?

To become a qualified driver, you need to complete your driving theory test. It usually consists of a section on hazard identification and perception and a section with multiple choice questions. In the first section, you need to identify driving and road hazards. And in the second section, you choose the correct answer to each question. Your goal is to answer as many questions as you can within the allocated time.

• No surprise here, our best advice is: study, study, study! Buy the online and a paper copy of the driver theory test handbook. When you have both, you can study in any circumstances. They also contain helpful tips and extra questions for maximum preparation. Make sure you use the latest version.
• On the day of your theory test at a centre, you will have to answer questions within a specific time. A great idea is to practice in the same conditions. If possible, study with someone else. Have someone quiz you on the multiple-choice questions and answer them in a limited time. This will help you be more confident on the day of the test.
• Take practice or mock tests. This is a great way to assess how much you already know and which areas you need to improve. Also, it is easier to track your process as you prepare. You can easily find mock tests online.
• You can also find apps that you can download to review road signals and test your reaction when presented with hazards. Watch YouTube videos and familiarise yourself with potential road hazards. If you are a passenger with another driver, pay attention to the hazards on the road and how the driver reacts to them.
• We recommend studying for at least 20 hours to improve your chances of passing the test. This gives you time to review the 1,000+ possible questions. Your test will contain a random selection of these questions. 
• Book the test. Once you feel ready, you can book your test online. Fixing a date in your mind at the beginning, often helps to keep you motivated and focused until the test. Usually, to book a test, you need your provisional driving licence number, your email address and a credit card.
• Finally, remember the basics. Get enough sleep the night before the test so you are alert and ready. Give yourself enough time on the day and arrive early at your local DMV or testing centre so you reduce unnecessary stress. You will usually be given practice time to get used to the computer systems and layout of the test at the beginning. Use this time to the full and ask for assistance if necessary.

You cannot over-prepare for your driving test. Study thoroughly but be patient too. It is ok if you have to take the test a second time. This is quite normal. You can learn from your mistakes and improve in the meantime.

How much is a driving test?

The prices of driving test, and the pass rates, can vary a lot. In the United States, for example, you can obtain a licence for USD 20 to USD 1,000. In the United Kingdom, a driving test costs a total of about GBP 98. Here is a short indicative list of prices.

• Croatia: Around EUR 1,000 to attend driving school and EUR 25 for the licence.
• Malaysia: RM 2,700 for a 7 to 10-week course that includes a theory test and practical driving test.
• Andorra: EUR 370 for your driving test and EUR 70 for the licence fee.
• Germany: EUR 123.49 for the theory test costs, and EUR 290.75 for the practical test.
• Norway: EUR 115 for the practical test and EUR 300 to take your theory test.
• Brazil: Between BRL 800 and BRL 1,500 to get your full driving licence.
• France: EUR 200 to take your driving test.
• United Kingdom: GBP 23 for the theory test, GBP 62 (weekdays) to GBP 75 (evenings, week ends and bank holidays) for the practical test.

Keep in mind that medical tests may be required as well. In fact, this is a legal requirement in most countries. Some medical tests required include psychology exams, colour blindness, and other more general exams.

You need to apply for your driving test and licence in your country of residence. As a rule, this is the country where you have lived and worked for 185 days in the year. Also, there is usually a minimum age limit to apply for a drivers licence. In addition, you need to prove that you are physically fit to drive. Of course, you have the option to take the test again if you fail. However, some centres may limit the number of resits. Finally, you can also appeal the result of a test if you disagree with the result.

What kind of certificate does a truck driver need?

You must be over 18 years old, hold a full driving licence, and have passed basic checks, like an eye test or required medical assessment. The qualifications you need often depend on the specific type of truck you want to drive, and the local regulations in place.

For example, in order to drive a truck in most states in Europe (for example, Ireland, Iceland, Norway or Switzerland), you need a category C and D driving licence and a Certificate of Professional Competence.

To qualify for a Certificate of Professional Competence, you need to attend a training course with the governing body in your country. The CPC requires periodic training of up to 35 hours. It consists of a case study test, a practical driving test and a theory test. The LGV licence includes driving skills, loading skills, mechanics, vehicle safety, theory test, practical driving test. Some companies also offer a truck driver apprenticeship programme.

There is massive demand for commercial drivers in Europe and across the world. Perhaps because they do not know enough about the industry, many young people are unaware of this career option. Often, there is a misconception that becoming a truck driver means you have to travel huge distances. But other options exist. If the idea of travelling appeals to you, you could consider long-distance truck driving. But if you prefer to stay in your area, how about becoming a regional or city truck driver? Check out the specific truck driver regulations, prices and rules in your state or country, and discover a thrilling career. 

Remember, if you are sufficiently prepared for your driving test, there is no need to be overly nervous.

Need more information about what is a driving risk assessment? Read our complete guide about driving assessment. See also: information and advice about driving test certificate, driving test programme: all you need to know, complete guide about eye test certificate for driving licence, online driving examiner assessment: all you need to know.