How does independent driving work?
What you follow during the independent part and what happens after a wrong turn.
Direct answer: During the independent section, you follow a sat nav set up by the examiner, traffic signs, or a combination of both. Current GOV.UK guidance says this section lasts around 20 to 35 minutes.
Pre-launch check: Check the DVSA publication each month and record the source date when data is refreshed.
You are not being tested on navigation
A wrong turning is not automatically a fault. The examiner helps you return to the route. What matters is how safely you observe, signal and control the car while making decisions.
You cannot use your own sat nav. If a sign is hidden or unclear, the examiner can give directions until the route is visible again.
How to practise
- Ask your instructor to include unfamiliar roads and destinations.
- Practise following signs without rushing late decisions.
- If you miss a direction, continue safely instead of making a sudden move.
Official sources
This guide paraphrases the official pages below. Open them to check the current rule or service.