Independent driving, new driving test from 4th October 2010

Ok so the driving test is changing soon, is there anything to be concerned about? I'd say not. This is what will happen; at some point during your test the examiner will get you to stop on the left as normal advise you that he/she wants you to do some independent driving. They will explain that they either want you to follow a series of directions similar to the junctions shown here. Alternatively that you should follow signs for a location e.g. major town. Since it is always the second half of the test, you are bound to be driving back towards the test centre. So for example please follow signs for Lichfield or Sutton Coldfield. You may also be asked to do a combination both following a series of junction, then follow signs for wherever.

Important note: In the current test if the examiner asks you to turn left at the end of the road and you actually turn right, what happens? As long as you do it safely and commit no driving faults, the examiner will say "I actually asked you to turn left, but don't worry I will get us back onto the correct route." It doesn't matter at all, really, really it is fine. Similarly in the independent driving section of the new test, if you can't remember the route or get confused, this is what to do. Follow the route that you think is probably correct and do it safely (using you normal procedures). If there is time ask the examiner to clarify, but if in any doubt just carry on safely and the examiner will help with directions as necessary.
Independent driving is being used from October 4th 2010 and there will be one less reversing manoeuvre, you still have to be able to do all four, so keep practising.

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