Driving-test day essentials when using your own car

What is required on test day

The accessories are only part of the official checklist. Your car must also be roadworthy, taxed, have a current MOT when required, and be insured specifically for a driving test. Safety warning lights, tyre damage or an unsuitable spare tyre can lead to the test being cancelled.

Confirm the rules again shortly before the appointment because vehicle restrictions and recall information can change.

• An extra interior rear-view mirror positioned for the examiner.
• L plates on the front and rear, or L or D plates where permitted in Wales.
• A working passenger seat belt and a proper passenger head restraint for the examiner.
• Your UK driving licence and a suitable car; take your theory certificate if you still have it.

Buy only what your car is missing

Many learners need only the examiner mirror and suitable plates. Check what you already own before ordering a bundle, and make sure each item fits securely without obstructing the driver or examiner.

A cheap accessory is not useful if it moves, falls off or limits visibility. Fit the mirror and plates before test day, then drive with them in place during a supervised practice session.

Optional tools that can help you check the car

A tyre-pressure gauge can help you compare each tyre with the pressure stated by the vehicle manufacturer. It does not check tread depth, hidden damage or whether a tyre is otherwise legal, so inspect the tyres separately and ask a qualified professional if you are uncertain.

• Use the pressure figures specified for your car and load, not a generic number from a product listing.
• Check tyres when appropriate for the gauge and vehicle guidance.
• Do not rely on a pressure gauge to clear a dashboard warning or diagnose a fault.

Things you do not need to buy

Avoid adding accessories merely because they are marketed as driving-test products. They can create clutter without helping the car meet the rules.

• Dual controls are not required when you use your own car.
• Your own sat nav cannot be used during the test; the examiner provides one if needed.
• You do not need to replace a lost theory-test pass certificate because the examiner can check the result.
• A tyre gauge, cleaning kit or organiser is optional and cannot make an unsafe car test-ready.

The night-before check

Complete the checks early enough to correct a problem without rushing. If the car does not meet every rule, arrange a suitable alternative or change the appointment within the official terms.

• Fit and test the examiner mirror and both plates.
• Check the tyres, lights, warning lights, passenger seat belt and head restraint.
• Remove rubbish and unnecessary items from the dashboard, footwells, door pockets, cup holders and seats.
• Confirm the MOT, tax and driving-test insurance cover.
• Put your driving licence somewhere safe and check the route and booking time.

Official sources

This guide paraphrases the official pages below. Open them to check the current rule or service.

• GOV.UK: Using your own car for your test (opens on GOV.UK in a new tab)
• GOV.UK: What to take to your test (opens on GOV.UK in a new tab)

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