DVSA

Mar 17th, 2023

Passed first time, Jane put me at ease. Not all of the reviews about Jane are true, she is a lovely driving examiner.
Feb 23rd, 2023

Had my driving test today and was so nervous Jane is so professional and friendly. Made me feel calm throughout the test she is a credit to that test centre
Dec 2nd, 2022

Dec 1st, 2022

The test centre itself is pretty small but fortunately it has a (basic) WC. As for the examiners, I have mixed reviews since I had 2 different examiners. For my first test (October 2022) I had Jane. Experience wasn't the best. As soon as I got into the car after the number plate reading, she came in shortly after and straight away just asked me the Tell Me question. This threw me off guard and I started panicking -- this did not ease my nerves. She did try to get me to calm down though. Once that was answered, she asked me if I wanted her to explain how the test would go. I said yes and she proceeded to explain. Whilst explaining, she mentioned that there would be independent driving but didn't clarify whether it was road signs or sav nav so I asked her to clarify and her response was "oh, you're worrying again" and then confirmed it was sat nav. I was taken aback as I usually like things clarified whether I'm worried or not, it's in my nature to ask. I think my nerves overtook me during the test unfortunately, and it wasn't really a fun driving experience. Although I think in hindsight failing first time worked in my favour, I do believe Jane is somewhat harsh with her feedback (or maybe I was just emotional) so if I had her for my second test I would have definitely had my instructor in the car with me so they could provide me with more rational feedback if I had failed again. [I would personally advise those who have her to have their instructors join for the test] For my second test (December 2022), it was a breath of fresh air. OK, I was still a bit nervous at the start -- especially before knowing what manoeuvre I was doing -- but the examiner was so much better. I had Graham who, unless I'm mistaken, came from another test centre to reduce the driving test backlog. Graham was very clear with his instructions and explanations throughout the test. When he came in the car after the number plate reading, he started by saying that he would be asking two procedural questions (i.e. the Tell Me and Show Me questions). I was pleasantly surprised as I was prepared for a straight launch into the Tell Me question! Although we didn't talk much, I felt comfortable to talk to him whether it be clarifying directions or initiating a personal conversation. I was also comfortable enough to do my deep breathing at the start whilst on the road to ease my nerves. I ended up actually enjoying the test (and passed)!
Jan 11th, 2023