Can I do my driving test in my own car?

DRIVING tests may seem like a daunting prospect - but all drivers have to go through it before they can hit the road.

But can you take your driving test in your own car? Here's everything you need to know.

Can I do my driving test in my own car?

Whilst many people take their driving test in their driving instructor's car - there is nothing stopping you from using your own set of wheels.

So if you're eager to get behind the wheel of your own car - all you have to do is meet the rules set out by the Driver and Vehicle Standards Agency (DVSA).

But it is important to know that not all vehicles can be used for driving tests - some are prohibited because they can't provide examiners with all-round vision.

These vehicles include:

What do I need to do to use my own car for a driving test?

Before heading to the test centre, there are a few things you need to do first to make sure your vehicle is test ready.

And it is worth checking everything beforehand - because if you're vehicle doesn't meet the required standards, then you're test will be cancelled and you will not be eligible for a refund.

Here's everything you need to check before your test.

Make sure the car is taxed
Check with your insurance company that you are insured for a driving test
Have a current MOT
have no warning lights showing, for example, the airbag warning light
have no tyre damage and the legal tread depth on each tyre - you cannot have a space-saver spare tyre fitted
be smoke-free - this means you cannot smoke in it just before or during the test
be able to reach at least 62mph and have an mph speedometer
have 4 wheels and a maximum authorised mass (MAM) of no more than 3,500 kg

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You also must have the following fitted to your car.

Ensure L plates (and/or D plates in Wales) are securely displayed on the front and back of the vehicle.
Provide an extra interior rear-view mirror for the examiner.
Have a working passenger seatbelt and a head restraint

You can also take the test in either a manual, automatic or semi-automatic vehicle - however, if you take the test in a semi-automatic car, you’ll only be licensed to drive automatic and semi-automatic cars once you’ve passed.

It is also fine to take the test in a car that has electronic parking brakes and hill-start assist features.

Is it better to take your test in your own car?

If you're lucky enough to get behind the wheel of your own car when learning to drive - then there are many advantages of taking your driving test in your own vehicle.

If you've had plenty of practice - then you will feel more comfortable with the controls and therefore feel more confident during your test.

It will also give you more flexibility when it comes to booking a test date - as you won't have to schedule your test around your driving instructor.

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Can I do my driving test in my own car?