What to Expect at the Kendal Driving Test Centre

If you’re learning to drive in Kendal, Windermere, Oxenholme, or the surrounding Lake District area, chances are you’ll take your practical driving test at the Kendal Driving Test Centre. Knowing what to expect on the day can help calm the nerves and give you the confidence to perform at your best.

How Long Does the Test Last?

Your test will last around 40 minutes. If you’re taking an extended test following a driving ban, it will be about 70 minutes. Most standard tests cover local roads in and around Kendal, including urban areas, residential streets, and nearby rural routes.

What Happens During the Test?

The driving test is split into five parts:

1. Eyesight Check

   You’ll be asked to read a number plate from a distance of 20 metres. If you can’t, the test will end immediately.

2. ‘Show Me, Tell Me’ Questions

   You’ll be asked one ‘tell me’ question before driving (explaining how you'd carry out a safety check), and one ‘show me’ question while driving (such as how to use the windscreen wipers).

3. General Driving Ability

   You’ll follow directions from the examiner and drive in varied road and traffic conditions—but not on the motorway. Expect a mix of town centre roads, residential streets, and some hill starts, possibly around the Kendal bypass or towards Oxenholme.

4. Reversing Manoeuvres

   You’ll be asked to complete one of the following:

   • Parallel park

   • Bay park (drive in and reverse out, or reverse in and drive out)

   • Pull up on the right, reverse two car lengths, and rejoin traffic

5. Independent Driving

   You’ll drive for around 20 minutes by following sat nav directions or road signs. The examiner will let you know which one you’ll be doing and will provide the sat nav if needed.

   
   

Mistakes During the Test

Don’t panic if you make a mistake—it won’t necessarily mean a fail. The examiner is only looking for serious or dangerous faults that could affect safety. If you go the wrong way but drive safely, you won’t be penalised.

Who Can Come With You?

You can choose to have your driving instructor or a family member sit in during the test or be there for the result and feedback. Just note—they’re not allowed to help or speak during the test.

Sometimes, a supervisor may sit in to observe the examiner—not you. If you refuse, the test may be cancelled and have to be rebooked.

Final Tips for Kendal Learners

At Progression Driving School, we regularly teach learners on roads in and around Kendal, helping them gain confidence with everything from busy town centre junctions to tighter country lanes near Oxenholme. We’ll make sure you’re fully prepared for the challenges you might face on test day.

Good preparation and local practice are the keys to confidence—and success.