Top 5 tips to pass your Driving Test in Sunderland

1. Be Confident at Working Spiral Roundabouts

Spiral roundabouts can be tricky, but they are quite common around Sunderland and on some Sunderland driving test routes, so it’s essential to master them.

✅ How to Handle Spiral Roundabouts:

- Know Your Lane Early – Use road signs and markings to pick the correct lane.

- Check Mirrors & Signal – Always signal when correctly.

- Watch for Other Drivers – Some may switch lanes unexpectedly, so stay alert.

- Stay Calm & Controlled – Confidence comes from practice, so lots of practice on these. If you can, get extra practice in your own time (if you have your own car or use a parents to practice). 

2. Be Able to Execute Your Reverse Manoeuvres

During your test, you’ll be asked to perform one reversing manoeuvre. The key is to stay in control and be observant.

✅ Key Manoeuvres to Master:

- Parallel Parking – Stay close to the kerb without hitting it.

- Bay Parking (Forward or Reverse) – Ensure your car is positioned within the bay.

- Pulling Up on the Right & Reversing – Check blind spots and mirror frequently, keeping close to the kerb. 

3. Be Good at Anticipating and Planning

One of the biggest reasons learners fail is not anticipating hazards or reacting too late.

✅ Improve Your Anticipation Skills:

- Look far ahead and spot potential hazards (pedestrians, cyclists, cars pulling out).

- Predict what other drivers might do—especially at junctions and roundabouts.

- Always adjust your speed for upcoming road conditions.

4. Stay Aware of Your Surroundings at All Times

Examiners want to see that you’re always aware of what’s happening around you.

✅ How to Improve Awareness:

- Check Mirrors Often – Especially before changing lanes, turning, or slowing down.

- Watch for Pedestrians, E-bikes & Cyclists – Sunderland has many shared road spaces.

- Know Your Blind Spots – Always glance over your shoulder when moving off from the side of the road.

- Avoid Last-Minute Reactions – Smooth, controlled driving shows confidence.

5. Master Commentary Driving

Commentary driving is when you verbalize your observations, decisions, and actions while driving. This helps you stay focused and makes your driving more structured.

✅ How to Practice Commentary Driving:

- Say What You See – Identify road signs, hazards, and other vehicles.

- Say What You Plan to Do – 'I see a cyclist ahead, I will check my mirrors and give space.'

- Explain Your Speed & Positioning – 'Approaching a bend, I’m slowing down to keep control.'

Final Thoughts – You’ve Got This!

By mastering these five key areas, you’ll feel more confident, stay in control, and have a better chance of passing your driving test at Sunderland Test Centre. Remember, passing your driving test isn’t just about knowing the rules—it’s about showing you can drive safely and independently.

🚗 Need extra help? Join our private Facebook group where we will post videos and tips on difficult areas within Sunderland. 

If you are still looking for a Driving Instructor in Sunderland, get in touch with us today!