Driver CPC part three test: driving ability
You must have passed the Driver Certificate of Professional Competence (CPC) part one theory test before you can book the Driver CPC part three test.
What to take to your test
You must bring these to your test:
- your valid Great Britain photocard driving licence, or Northern Ireland photocard driving licence and paper counterpart
- a lorry or a bus or coach that meets the rules
Your test will be cancelled and you’ll lose your fee if you don’t bring these.
How the test works
Your practical test will last about 1 hour and 30 minutes and includes:
- vehicle safety questions
- practical road driving
- off-road exercises
Vehicle safety questions
During your test you’ll be asked vehicle safety questions on either:
Practical road driving
During your practical road driving, the examiner will see how you:
- use the vehicle controls
- move away at an angle, uphill and downhill
- do a controlled stop
- use the mirrors
- give appropriate signals
- show awareness and anticipation of other road users’ intentions
- manage your progress and control your vehicle speed
- deal with hazards
- select a safe place to stop
There will also be 10 minutes of independent driving, designed to test your ability to drive safely while making independent decisions.
Off-road exercises
The off-road exercises will include:
- an ‘S’ shaped reverse into a bay
- showing the uncoupling and recoupling procedure if you’re taking a test with a trailer
Test result
After you’ve taken the practical test your examiner will tell you if you’ve passed and explain how you did.
You’ll pass your test if you make:
- 15 or fewer driving faults
- no serious or dangerous faults
How the test works
The test is made up of 7 case studies you work through on a computer. The case studies are short stories based on situations that you’re likely to come across in your working life.
You’ll be asked between 6 and 8 multiple-choice questions on each case study.
The test lasts for 1 hour and 15 minutes, and the pass mark is 40 out of 50.
Your test result
You’ll get a letter with the results at the test centre.
You need the test pass reference number when you book your Driver CPC part 4 practical demonstration test.
The pass letter is valid for 2 years.
You need to pass the Driver CPC part 4 practical demonstration test within 2 years, otherwise you’ll have to pass the part 2 case studies test again.
