Practical test: preparation and booking
The practical test shows that your driving skills have reached a level where you can drive consistently well, with confidence and without help or guidance. It’ll also show that you meet the Driving Standards Agency National Driving Standard for bus and coach drivers (category D vehicles).
There’s no point in booking the practical test until your instructor says you’re ready: you’re likely to waste your time and money if you take it too soon.
You’ll need to take your practical test within 2 years of passing your theory test – otherwise your theory test pass certificate will expire.
The practical driving test costs £115: for full details of the practical test costs, visit GOV.UK.
If you want to become a professional driver, the practical test will form Module 3 of your initial Driver Certificate of Professional Competence (Driver CPC).
Preparing for your practical test
Your driving lessons should prepare you for your practical test. For more information and help with practical skills, and a checklist of what you should know and be able to do, see our advice on how to develop your bus driving skills.
Booking your practical test
It’s best to book your test using the official site, GOV.UK. If you use an unofficial site, you might pay more than you need to or you may not get a booking at all.
Alternatively, your trainer may book your test so it’s at the end of your training course.