Guidance for Trailer Tests

Content provided by www.trailertraining.cymru

Guidance for trailer driving tests
The B+E car and trailer vehicle test

Driving test requirements
Driving tests are conducted in accordance with the provisions of the Motor Vehicles (Driving Licences)
Regulations and EU Directive 2003/59/EC.
It is important that, unless the test is terminated, the minimum driving times are strictly adhered to.
Regulations state that the time during which a person is required to drive on the road is:
(i) for the case of a test for a licence authorising the driving of a class of vehicle included in the category B+E, C+E, and D+E, not less than 50 minutes, which includes approximately 10 minutes of independent driving.
Test candidates must satisfy the examiner as to their ability to carry out properly the activities and perform competently, without danger to and with due consideration for other road users, the manoeuvres below.

Eyesight
Read in good daylight (with the aid of glasses or contact lenses if worn) a registration mark fixed to a motor vehicle and containing letters and figures 79.4 millimetres high at a distance of 20.5 metres.
Note: new/ style number plates were introduced on the 1 September 2001. These number plates can be easily identified as they start with two letters. The distance requirement for the eyesight test with the new style number plate is 20 metres. These number plates can be easily identified as they start with two letters.
Answer Vehicle Safety Check questions.

Preparation to drive
Adjust the seat as necessary to obtain a correct seated position.
Adjust rear ­view mirrors and seat belts.
Check that the doors are closed.
Technical control of the vehicle
Start the engine and move off smoothly (uphill and downhill as well as on the flat).
Accelerate to a suitable speed while maintaining a straight course, including during gear­ changes.
Adjust speed to negotiate left or right turns at junctions, possibly in restricted spaces, while maintaining control of the vehicle.
Brake accurately to a stop where directed, if need be by performing an emergency stop
Reverse in a ‘S’ shaped curve.
Behaviour in traffic
Observe (including the use of the rear ­view mirrors) road alignment, markings, signs and potential or actual risks.
Communicate with other road users using the authorised means.
React appropriately in actual risk situations.
Comply with road traffic regulations and the instruction of the police and traffic controllers.
Move off from the kerb or a parking space.
Drive with the vehicle correctly positioned on the road, adjusting speed to traffic conditions and the line of the road.
Keep the right distance between vehicles.
Change lanes.
Pass parked or stationary vehicles and obstacles.
Approach and cross junctions.
Turn right and left at junctions or to leave the carriageway.
Where the opportunity arises:
(a) pass oncoming vehicles, including in confined spaces
(b) overtake in various situations
(c) approach and cross level­ crossings

Trailers
Un­couple and re­couple trailer from and to the vehicle.

Vehicle Safety
Show awareness of vehicle safety measures and be able to operate safety systems.

Minimum test vehicles (MTVs) suitable for test purposes
All vehicles must comply with the following MTV requirements to be suitable for test:

Category B+E
Category B vehicle + a minimum of 1 tonne MAM* trailer
Trailer of closed box construction ­ can be slightly less wide than the towing vehicle. Trailer must be of such a height that driver rear ­view is only possible through external mirrors.
RTM** 800kg for the trailer.
Load Requirement: 600kgs of aggregates such as sand, stone chippings, gravel or any other recycled material packaged in sealed transparent bags. All bags must weigh the same and be at least 10kgs.
Or alternatively: One intermediate bulk container constructed of moulded plastic or steel of 1,000kg or 600kg capacity when filled with water.
ABS: Not required Tacho: Not required Length: Not applicable Width (metres): Not applicable Speed Km/h: 100
Key: MAM* Maximum Authorised Mass = the maximum permissible weight of the vehicle or trailer or vehicle/trailer combination
RTM** Real Total Mass = the actual weight of the vehicle or trailer or vehicle/trailer combination when presented for test
Test vehicles used for car plus trailer tests must be fitted with external nearside and offside mirrors for use by the driving examiner during the test

Laden vehicles/trailers
Since 15 November 2013, certain vehicles ­ and vehicle trailer combinations ­ can only be presented for practical test with a secured load.
Details of specific vehicles/trailers and their load requirements can be found in DT1 3.02 and on GOV.UK.
Exceptionally it may be necessary for an examiner to check a load to ensure it meets the test requirement.
If this is necessary, the examiner should ask the candidate or the accompanying driver to enable the load to be seen.
The examiner must not physically open, or assist in opening, any vehicle or trailer; or operate any tail lift in order to gain access to a load.
Under no circumstances should an examiner enter a vehicle or trailer loading area to check a load. Any viewing must be made from a point completely separate (detached) from the vehicle or trailer.
If an examiner is trained to use an A ­frame set of steps, they can be used but mustn’t be propped against or touching the vehicle. If it’s clear that a vehicle/trailer doesn’t comply with the load requirement, the examiner must explain to the candidate that they’re unable to conduct the test.
Small, properly secured articles such as tarpaulins, cones ­ and equipment such as cookers and fridges, fitted in recreational vehicles, motor­homes and caravans, and other integral factory ­fitted equipment ­ should not be regarded as a load.

General competence to drive
To pass the test a candidate must demonstrate a high standard of competence in handling the vehicle.
The candidate must also be able to apply the rules of the Highway Code. They must show that, generally, they have a full understanding of the principles involved in driving large goods or passenger carrying vehicles and of the application of those principles, and can demonstrate proper control in a wide variety of situations.
In addition, because of the size and weight of their vehicle, the drivers of BE vehicles must have a highly developed level of courtesy and consideration for other road users. The test will also include a section of independent driving where the candidate is asked to follow traffic signs or verbal directions or a combination of both.

Assessment and recording of faults
It is important that, in addition to a common standard of test, there should be a common standard of assessment of candidates’ driving ability. The most reliable basis for assessing a person’s competence to drive is to observe faults as they are committed and to evaluate them as soon as a confident judgement can be made. Examiners should not be too hasty in making a definitive assessment and marking the fault.
Examiners should wait until the event has finished, then mark the fault. Driving errors must not be double marked. Once assessed, each fault should be recorded on the DL25. The markings on the DL25 are explained below.

Definition of markings on form DL25
1.
(a). Eyesight (B+E only): Unable to meet the requirements of the eyesight test.
2. Controlled Stop: Promptness / slow reaction / inadequate braking / loss of control.
3. Reverse / Left reverse with trailer:
Control: incorrect use of controls and/or inaccuracy.
Observation: lack of effective all round observation.
7. Vehicle Checks: Answer safety check questions.
10. Uncouple/ re­couple: Uncoupling/ re­coupling exercise.
11. Precautions: Failure to take proper precautions before starting engine.
12. Control:
Accelerator: uncontrolled or harsh use of the accelerator.
Clutch: uncontrolled use of clutch.
Gears: failure to engage appropriate gear for road and traffic conditions. Coasting in neutral or with clutch pedal depressed.
Footbrake: late and/or harsh use of footbrake.
Parking brake: failure to apply or release the handbrake correctly and when necessary.
Steering: erratic steering, overshooting the correct turning point when turning right or left, both hands off steering wheel or hitting the kerb.
Note: Control faults should not be marked at item 12 if committed at item 3.
13. Move off:
Safely: failure to take effective observation before moving off, including the correct use of signals.
Under control: inability to move off smoothly, straight ahead, at an angle, or on a gradient.
14. Use of mirror(s):
Failure to make effective use of the mirrors well before:
signalling
changing direction
changing speed
15. Signals:
Necessary: Necessary signal omitted.
Correctly: Incorrect or misleading signal. Failure to cancel direction indicators.
Timed: Signal incorrectly timed so as to be either misleading or too late to be of value.
16. Clearance/ obstructions:
Not allowing adequate clearance when passing parked vehicles and other obstructions.
17. Response to signs/ signals:
Failure to comply with or late reaction to:
Traffic signs: Inappropriate response to traffic signs
Road markings: eg double white lines, box junctions, lane direction arrows.
Traffic lights: (not Pedestrian Controlled crossings, this is covered at 24), including failure to move off on green when correct and safe to do so.
Traffic controllers: signals given by a police officer, traffic warden, school crossing warden or other persons directing traffic.
Other road users: Failure to take appropriate action on signals given by other road users.
18. Use of speed: Driving too fast for road, traffic and weather conditions.
19. Following distance:
Keep a proper and safe distance from the vehicle in front when moving.
Leave a reasonable gap from the vehicle in front when stopping in lines of traffic.
20. Progress:
Appropriate speed: driving too slowly for road and traffic conditions.
Undue hesitation: being over cautious by stopping or waiting when it is safe and normal to proceed.
21. Junctions:
Approach speed: Approaching junctions at a proper speed; either too fast or too slow, for whatever reason.
Observations: Not taking effective observation before emerging.
Turning right: Late or incorrect positioning before turning right, including failing to move forward into the correct position to turn right at traffic lights.
Turning left: Positioning too close or too far from the kerb before turning left.
Cutting corners: Cutting right hand corners, particularly where the view is limited.
22. Judgement:
Overtaking: Attempting to overtake unsafely or cutting in after overtaking.
Meeting: Failure to show proper judgement when meeting approaching traffic.
Crossing: Turning right across the path of oncoming traffic.
23. Positioning:
Normal driving: Incorrect positioning during normal driving, including cutting across the normal road position when going ahead at roundabouts without lane markings.
Lane discipline: Failure to maintain proper lane discipline at roundabouts with lane markings when going ahead and when continuing to drive ahead in designated lanes.
24. Pedestrian crossings:
Failure to give precedence to pedestrians on a pedestrian crossing.
Non­compliance with lights at Pedestrian Controlled crossings.
25. Position/ normal stops: Normal stop not made in safe position.
26. Awareness/ planning: Failure to judge what other road users are going to do and react accordingly.
27. Ancillary controls: Failure to use ancillary controls when necessary.
33. Post test information:
Pass/fail/none
Total faults.
Route No.
ETA (Examiner took action): verbally/physically (e.g. dual controls/steering).
D255 (Special needs test and eyesight failure). Mark when a D255 is submitted.
Survey boxes A ­ H.
Eco Safe driving: Not part of Pass/ Fail criteria
Control: Starting/ Moving off/ Accelerator use/ gears
Planning: Hazard awareness/ planning and anticipation/ engine braking

 

Definition of faults
Faults are defined as follows:
A driving fault is one which in itself is not potentially dangerous. However, a candidate who habitually commits a driving fault in one aspect of driving throughout the test, demonstrating an inability to deal with certain situations, cannot be regarded as competent to pass the test, as that fault alone must be seen as potentially dangerous.
A serious fault is one which is potentially dangerous.
A dangerous fault is one involving actual danger to the examiner, candidate, the general public or property.
Note: Fails as a result of either one serious fault or one dangerous fault and an accumulation of 16 or more driving faults ­ the written report only needs to cover the more serious or dangerous fault. Fails as a result of an accumulation of 16 or more driving faults only need to be written up in full.

Preparations for the test
The examiner should take on all tests:
Manoeuvring boards for the reversing & braking exercises, forms DVSA10, DL25, and blank forms DLV26.
Before going to meet the candidate the examiner should insert on the DL25 all the details available prior to the test eg the candidate’s name (DL25B only), application reference number, driver number, time of test, category type etc.
If a route involving verbal directions is to be used the appropriate diagrams should be taken. Examiners should always carry one set of verbal direction route diagrams to allow them to ‘offer’ both methods of independent driving. (This could occur with a special need candidate who declares after leaving test centre)

Setting the manoeuvring area
The manoeuvring area should be laid out in exactly the same way for right and left hand drive vehicles, and strictly in accordance with the examiner’s manoeuvring board and ready reckoner. If the examiner is doubtful about the accuracy of the dimensions of the vehicle as shown on the journal, they should be
checked with a tape to ensure correct positioning of the marker cones.
The distance from cone B to cones A & A1 is always twice the length of the vehicle used for test.
In the case of vehicles with trailers, cone A1 should be set one metre in from the boundary line. In the case of rigid vehicles without trailers, cone A1 should be set on the boundary line. Exceptionally, at centres where there is a safety barrier or other obstruction close to the boundary line and the rigid vehicle
used for test has a large front overhang or limited steering lock, which may make it difficult to negotiate cone B, then cone A1 should be set one metre in from the line.
The distance between cones A & A1 should always be 1½ times the widest part of the vehicle (or outfit) used for test and cone B should always be in line with cone A. Therefore, when cone A1 is set one metre in from the boundary line cones A and B must also be set an additional metre into the manoeuvring area.

Meeting the candidate
The examiner should ask for the candidate by name, greet them pleasantly and then carry out the same licence check and identification procedures as laid out.

If the examiner notices then, or during the test, that the candidate may suffer from some restriction of movement, which could be classed as a disability, make discreet enquiries at an appropriate opportunity.
In the case of physically disabled persons examiners should enquire about any adaptation(s) fitted to the vehicle, and ask how they operate in relation to the disability. This information should be recorded in detail in the appropriate box on the DL25 and the D255.
For eyesight correction issues please see guidance here: DT1 7.55

 

Suspected impersonation
As per chapter 1 ­ 1.17

 

Eyesight test
The B + E test requires the same eyesight test as for an ordinary car test.

 

Vehicle safety questions
Examiners should choose a selection of five questions from the B+E question bank (Annex 3). Choose questions that suit the vehicle presented for test and the location the test is being delivered from.
At least 50% of the questions should be ‘show me’ rather than ‘tell me’, therefore when asking two questions at least one must be ‘show me’. When asking five questions at least three must be ‘show me’.
Examiners should use all of the questions equally. The choice of questions used should be recorded on the DL25 and will be subject to quality assurance by line managers and by audit.
Although some checks may involve the candidate in opening the bonnet to identify where fluid levels would be checked, candidates must not be asked to touch a hot engine or physically check the fluid levels.
Assessment
Drivers seeking licence entitlement for B+E should be more experienced, and insufficient knowledge on their part could result in a higher level of risk. The assessment criteria for the category reflect this.
A driving fault will be recorded for each incorrect answer up to a maximum of four driving faults. If the candidate answers all five questions incorrectly, a serious fault will be recorded. However, examiners should not pursue questions unduly in an attempt to elicit the precise responses listed; they should bear in
mind that these are basic safety checks, and that in­depth mechanical knowledge is not required for the answers to be acceptable. If an Examiner has to take action to avoid danger to the candidate, examiner or another road user, an ETA will be recorded and a serious/dangerous fault recorded under the appropriate
heading on the DL25.
As vehicle technology advances, more and more vehicles are being equipped with electronic diagnostic systems which inform the driver of the state of the engine fluid levels, tyre pressures, etc. It will be acceptable for a candidate to refer to the vehicle information system (if fitted) when answering questions on topics such as these.
Examiners need to be aware that although it may be necessary in order to carry out some of the checks, the ability to open the bonnet is, in itself, not one of the competencies which candidates are required to demonstrate. Should a candidate experience difficulty, it will be acceptable for the accompanying driver to
assist in the opening and closing of the bonnet. Candidates should not be penalised if this proves necessary.

Candidates with Special Needs (B+E TESTS ONLY)
The facility already exists for candidates who are physically unable to uncouple or re­couple the trailer to answer questions rather than actually demonstrate uncoupling and re­coupling. In the same way, where a disability prevents a candidate from carrying out a practical activity in response to a ‘show me’ question,
they should be asked to demonstrate understanding by oral explanation.

Observation of candidate
Except for the reversing exercise, examiners should, throughout the test, position themselves within the vehicle where they are best able to observe the candidate’s performance.

Direction indicators and stop lamps
The examiner should make a brief visual check of direction indicators and stop lamps. If this reveals any obvious damage, which raises doubts as to whether they are operational, the examiner should offer to assist the candidate in making a practical check and ask them to operate the appropriate control. If the
suspect item does not function satisfactorily the candidate should be given the opportunity to rectify the fault. The programming and longer duration of BE tests will often allow examiners to be more flexible than is possible in the case of L tests. If the fault cannot be rectified the test should be terminated.
To avoid subsequent argument, the candidate should be asked if they wish to confirm by personal observation that the particular item doesn’t function satisfactorily, in which case the examiner should operate the control.
If a stop lamp failure becomes evident during the exercises, it should be brought to the candidate’s attention when all the exercises have been completed and, if time permits, they should be given the chance to rectify the fault.
In deciding whether or not direction indicators and stop lamps are in an acceptable condition for the purposes of the test, examiners should be guided by the principle that no candidate should be turned away whose test could reasonably be conducted.
When a test is terminated because direction indicators or stop lamps are defective the candidate should be tactfully reminded that, where these are fitted, either compulsorily or voluntarily, the law requires them to be in good and efficient working order whenever the vehicle is used on the road and that, in the circumstances, the test cannot be conducted.

 

‘L’ (`D’ in Wales) Plates
If ‘L’ (or `D’ in Wales) plates (or only one plate) are not displayed the examiner should ask the candidate about his/her licensing entitlement.
If the candidate has only provisional entitlement to drive the vehicle used for the test, the examiner should explain that the regulations require the vehicle to display ‘L’ (or D’ in Wales) plates clearly visible from the front and back. A set of L’ (or `D’ in Wales) plates should be kept at the DTC and offered to the candidate for their use. The candidate should be given reasonable time to comply with
the regulations. If they are unable to do so, the test should be terminated.

Starting the engine
The candidate should ensure that the handbrake is applied and the gear lever/selector is in neutral, before operating the starter.
Before moving off initially, the candidate should check the seat position and mirrors.

Reversing exercise
The exercise is designed to test the candidate’s accuracy in manoeuvring the vehicle when reversing. The degree of accuracy required is the ability to occupy a bay 1½ times the width of the vehicle and with the rear of the vehicle within the stopping area. The candidate should maintain all round observation during the exercise. The examiner should observe the candidate’s performance from outside the vehicle, moving from one vantage point to another while the exercise is being performed.
Before the exercise, the candidate should be asked to bring the vehicle to rest in the starting position. The examiner should then clearly explain the exercise to the candidate making full use of the manoeuvring board to describe the requirements, and giving precise directions as to the course to be followed. It should
be explained to the candidate that they should not touch any of the marker cones or cross the yellow boundary lines during the exercise.
To pass, the candidate should not cross any of the yellow boundary lines with the full width of a tyre whilst manoeuvring, nor should they displace any of the marker cones. Cones A & A1 mark the maximum length of the area to be used by a particular test vehicle. If shunting’ should prove necessary, the
candidate should not drive further forward than the boundary of the area marked by cones A & A1, nor take more than two shunts’ throughout the exercise.
The loading/unloading barrier is not part of the reverse exercise for B+E tests. Examiners should not refer to the barrier during a de­brief or in the driving test report. If Examiners identify an operational need to reposition the barrier away from the stopping area during a B+E test then they can do so.
On B+E tests candidates should aim to position the extreme rear of the vehicle within any part of the yellow stopping area including the black cross­hatching. Stopping short of the area or reversing through the stopping area (displacing the barrier) should be viewed as unacceptable.
Candidates should not normally get out of the cab to check their position.
Candidate external vehicle checks
During the reverse exercise the candidate may wish to exit their vehicle to check its position. They are allowed to do this:
before reaching cone B (to assess their position in relation to it)
when in the bay to assess the rear position in relation to the stopping area/ barrier
These are the only two occasions when the candidate is allowed to leave the vehicle during the exercise.
No further attempt to exit the vehicle to make a check is permitted.
Note: This exercise should normally be carried out before leaving the test centre. (However, where this would cause undue delay, it may be carried out on return to the centre after the drive).

On entering the vehicle
Ask the candidate if the load is secure. Before starting the drive the
examiner must ensure that their seat belt is worn and securely fastened.

 

Braking exercise
Controlled stop/ Angle start
A controlled stop must be carried out on every test.
To commence the angle start the candidate first completes a controlled stop by pulling up on the left behind a parked car, reasonably close but not so close as to make it difficult to move away. The angle start exercise therefore combines two mandatory elements (controlled stop and moving away at an angle) as required.
Exceptionally if a parked car can’t be used for this exercise the candidate should be asked to pull up on the left before an object on the kerb, such as a post, street light or tree.
The DL25 should be annotated that a ‘controlled stop’ has been conducted on every B+E test by marking box 2.
NB: If a candidate self­elects to place their vehicle close behind a parked car this may be considered as a completed angle start exercise. A controlled stop has taken place and the DL25 should be annotated.

 

Moving off
The prime consideration when moving off is that the candidate does so safely, showing an awareness of the presence of other traffic and pedestrians.
The test should include a demonstration of the candidate’s ability to move off uphill, downhill and at an angle from a position reasonably close behind a stationary vehicle. Gradients for testing the candidate’s ability to move off uphill or downhill should be between 8% (1 in 12) and 11% (1 in 9). Gradients steeper than 12% (1 in 8) should not be used in any circumstances.

Methods of signalling
Candidates normally signal by direction indicator but may, if they wish, signal additionally by arm. Signals should be assessed on whether necessary and appropriate signals are given in good time, and indicators cancelled afterwards.
In the case of a disabled driver it will usually be apparent whether they are physically capable of signalling by indicator and arm. However, if the examiner can only be satisfied about this by observing the candidate giving signals whilst actually driving, they should specifically ask the candidate to signal by indicator or arm as appropriate, but only for as long as is necessary to determine whether or not they should be restricted to driving vehicles fitted with direction indicators and stop lamps. Arm signals should not specifically be asked for on a section of route, which includes a roundabout.
At certain test centres in remote areas a particular procedure, approved by the Sector Manager, may have to be adopted in which the candidate is asked to assume during the test that another vehicle is following closely and to give signals accordingly.

Expert handling of all controls
Candidates must be judged on their ability to demonstrate a high degree of skill in the use of controls in a variety of situations.
Examiners should bear in mind the possible consequences of incorrect use of the gears in a heavily laden vehicle on a downward gradient. This could result in a dangerous situation, with the vehicle gaining speed beyond the capacity of the brakes.
The candidate should be assessed on their ability to change down through the gears, and judgement in timing the changes in relation to the gradient.

Planning
The examiner should take particular note of the candidate’s judgement of distance, as well as seeing that they look well ahead. They should have regard to the candidate’s all round observation and use of mirrors, and note if their actions are deliberate and indicate a thoughtful appraisal of the situation.

Hazard recognition
Examiners should satisfy themselves that the candidate recognises hazards in good time, and takes appropriate action. The examiner should observe whether the candidate keeps their vehicle under proper control, in the appropriate gear, and is unhurried in their movements. Late and sudden braking or gear changing shows a lack of foresight.

Road junctions, including roundabouts
The examiner should observe whether the candidate takes account of the type of junction, road signs and following traffic. The candidate should take effective observation, including use of mirrors, before entering the intersection, and do so with proper regard for other road users. Necessary and appropriate signals should be given in good time, speed adjusted as necessary, and the vehicle correctly positioned throughout. The candidate should avoid using the weight and size of the vehicle to take precedence.

Turning right and left
The examiner should observe whether the candidate takes account of the type of junction and any warning signs, as well as keeping the vehicle under proper control. They should use the mirrors effectively, give proper signals in good time, select the appropriate gear and take up the correct road position well before turning. Effective observation should be taken before emerging, and the proper position on the road taken up as soon as possible after turning.
According to the length of the vehicle, a degree of tolerance may be allowed when assessing the vehicle’s position before and after turning, particularly where roads are narrow or the angle of the corner is acute.
When turning left, a candidate driving a long vehicle should position it some distance from the nearside kerb before turning, to avoid the rear nearside wheel encroaching on the pavement. Sharp swing­out should however be avoided and, bearing in mind the danger of cyclists or other road users on the nearside, the candidate should exercise extreme care and make full use of the nearside mirror. When turning right in long wheelbase vehicles cutting the corner is unavoidable in some situations; in such
circumstances the candidate must be expected to exercise extreme caution

Overtaking, meeting and crossing
The examiner should observe the candidate’s actions in overtaking and meeting other vehicles, and crossing the path of other traffic when turning to the right. Before overtaking, the mirrors should be used to observe following traffic in good time, and appropriate signals given if necessary. The examiner should bear in mind that this should be done much earlier than in, say, a car. While showing consideration for
other traffic, the candidate should not exhibit nervousness by giving way unduly to other vehicles when they could be expected to proceed. On the other hand, they should not be inconsiderate, e.g. by turning right in the face of closely approaching traffic or, when overtaking, using the weight and size of the vehicle to intimidate approaching drivers into giving way. The candidate must allow for the width and length of the vehicle, and a high degree of accuracy in road positioning is expected.
When overtaking, the candidate should be sure that the vehicle has sufficient reserves of power and speed to complete the manoeuvre within a reasonable distance, so that following drivers who may wish to overtake are not unduly inconvenienced. The use made of a nearside mirror is very important. The
examiner should note carefully the candidate’s use of it to ensure that following road users are not inconvenienced or placed in danger as a result of the vehicle’s change of position, eg a return to the nearside from a position or lane away from the left of the carriageway.

Traffic lights
The candidate’s reaction to the lights should be noted. An increase of speed where the lights have been showing green for some time could indicate a tendency to rely unduly on the colour remaining at green or to proceed on amber when they should have stopped.

Traffic lanes
The candidate should try, wherever possible, to keep within the appropriate lane. However, with a large or long vehicle, there may be occasions when it is necessary to straddle or ‘shut down’ lanes to be able to negotiate a hazard safely.

One way streets
The examiner should observe whether the candidate maintains a suitable course when driving along a one way street and, when intending to turn right or left, takes up a correct position. If directional arrows appear on the road, the candidate should follow the course indicated for the intended direction.

Stopping normally
5 or 6 normal stops should be carried out. The words “pull up” should be used for these stops. The candidate should be able to pull up parallel to, and within a reasonable distance of, the nearside kerb. The examiner should observe whether the candidate then applies the handbrake and puts the gear into neutral. On these occasions failure, to select neutral on vehicles fitted with automatic transmission should not necessarily be regarded as a fault.
These stops should not be incorporated into the independent drive section. However a normal stop can be carried out at the start, or before a series of verbal directions, of the independent driving section providing road conditions are suitable and the correct wordings are used i.e. ‘Pull up on the left at a safe place, please’.

Consideration for other road users: anticipation of their probable actions
The examiner should take particular note of the candidate’s anticipation, observation, and consideration, for other road users. Full use of the mirrors should be made to help faster traffic to overtake. Sufficient distance should be kept from the vehicle in front to allow overtaking drivers to pull in if necessary. Lane discipline should be maintained at all times. The early recognition of potential danger is extremely
important. The examiner should look for prompt and appropriate reaction to signals given by other road users. They should also note the candidate’s reaction to the cyclist who has just looked round, children or other pedestrians moving towards the kerb, the opening of car doors, etc.

Use of ancillary controls
Candidates should be able to use all the ancillary controls fitted to their vehicle. If the candidate has problems using the controls, eg wipers, or if the candidate has to be reminded to use a control, the examiner must make a judgement on seriousness using the normal criteria.

Uncoupling and re coupling
A candidate taking their test in a vehicle drawing a trailer must give a practical demonstration of uncoupling and recoupling. This is normally carried out at the end of the test but at busy test centres the exercise can be carried out before going on the road. The vehicle must be parked alongside the trailer after uncoupling; approximately parallel and level with it. The candidate should be briefed regarding
recoupling the vehicle and trailer whilst outside their cab. After initially checking their trailer it is not essential for them to leave the cab again to check the coupling height. However if they choose to get out of the cab to check their position they can do this as many times as they need to satisfy themselves the vehicle and trailer are realigned correctly. After reversing the towing vehicle up to the trailer it is
acceptable if the candidate physically moves the trailer to line it up to recouple it. On the other hand if they are not physically capable of moving the trailer (or they choose not to) it may take them several attempts to line the vehicle up to the trailer. There isn’t a set amount of attempts allowed to realign the vehicle to the trailer but if excessive attempts are taken with little or no sign of improvement it would not be
considered acceptable. Strike plates, additional mirrors and reversing cameras can be used to help realigning the vehicle to the trailer.
A physical check is usually necessary to ensure the trailer parking brake is applied before recoupling; however if it is obvious it is applied from the position of the button or cable, a visual check is acceptable.
If a special needs candidate taking their test in a B+E combination is unable to physically un­couple or recouple the trailer they should be asked both questions about the procedure in the next paragraph.

Uncoupling and re-coupling of car & trailer (B+E)
Question: What is the correct procedure to uncouple this vehicle from this trailer? Answers:
a. Secure trailer brake in ‘on’ position b. Lower jockey wheel and lock in position c. Release the electrical connections d. Disconnect safety cable/chain (if fitted) and release coupling e. Drive car slowly away.
Question: What is the correct procedure to re­couple this vehicle to this trailer if you imagine you had never seen this trailer before and wanted to make the combination safe to go onto the road?
Answers: a. Check that the trailer parking brake is applied b. Reverse car slowly into coupled position and connect the coupling c. Ensure vehicle is securely coupled by either winding the jockey wheel down a few centimetres or lifting the coupling by hand d. Connect electrical connections (and the safety chain and stabiliser bar if fitted) e. Secure jockey wheel in ‘up’ position (secure the safety clip if fitted) f. Release the trailer parking brake g. Check the lights are working.
Note: The answers don’t have to be recited in this exact sequence providing any change does not have implications for safety. Any deviation from the defined outcome should be assessed in the normal way.

Eco-safe driving
Eco­safe Driving’ is a recognised and proven style of driving. It contributes to road safety while reducing fuel consumption and emissions and is part of the EU 3rd Directive on Driving Licences, which reflects the increased awareness and need for economical / environmentally friendly driving.
Note: ‘Eco­safe Driving’ will not contribute to the result of the test.
The Eco­safe driving boxes on the DL25 are used to record an assessment of the driver’s ability to drive with economy and the environment in mind. The assessment of Eco­safe driving is taken over the whole test, not focussing on one instance ­ candidates only need to display knowledge of Eco­safe principles
they are not expected to be experts. A candidate may sacrifice Eco­safe driving techniques so as not to compromise safety. This should always be carefully considered in the assessment process.
There are two Eco­safe headings: control and planning:
(The examples below do not cover the whole range of Eco­safe driving styles and are for guidance only).

Control:
Changing down to lower gears when the road speed is too high is not considered an ‘Eco­safe driving’ technique. It uses fuel unnecessarily, as does needless harsh acceleration and using the higher rev range between upward gear changes. Doing so is a waste of fuel with no gain in safety or performance.
A driver should understand the capabilities of his/ her vehicle and should be able to take advantage of the power/torque characteristics of the engine by utilising the highest gear possible without causing the engine to labour. The ability to utilise a lower ‘rev’ range should ensure that fuel is not being used unnecessarily and therefore fewer pollutants will be released through the exhaust system.

Planning:
Needlessly stopping then moving away from rest has a detrimental effect on fuel consumption. An Ecosafe driver will keep the vehicle on the move whenever and wherever it is safe to do so. This technique can be demonstrated at junctions, roundabouts, slow moving traffic and when negotiating other hazard situations with no compromise to road safety. Keeping a vehicle on the move uses less fuel to regain momentum and demonstrates sound Eco­safe driving principles.
If a candidate is driving on an open road and has to reduce speed to comply with a change in speed limit or road and traffic conditions, he/she should be able to do so by responding early. This will allow timely use of the accelerator to use ‘engine braking’ to assisting the vehicle in slowing down smoothly.
The alternative of not using this technique is to brake late, which uses more fuel and is not a demonstration of effective Eco­safe driving principles.
In the previous examples, if the candidate demonstrates safe driving procedures by not committing control or procedural faults, then no fault should be recorded under another heading on the DL25 other than in ‘Eco­safe Driving’.
Whether the result of the test is a pass or a fail if an Eco­safe fault has been recorded in either one or both of the boxes the examiner should debrief the candidate in the normal way and offer him/her a copy of the Eco­safe leaflet which gives more information on tips and techniques to save fuel and reduce emissions.

Test terminated at candidate’s request
Ensure that this box is marked when a candidate decides not to continue.

End of test – issue of documents
At the end of the test the examiner should advise the candidate of the test result.
Other necessary documents should be completed and an oral explanation given in accordance with the guidance given.

 

 

You might also like