The Practical Driving Test to gain category D

A delegate will need to pass the practical driving test if they want to gain a category D on their driving licence. This test can last up to 70 minutes, allowing the examiner to assess the driver on a wide range of roads and in various situations.

A new addition to the practical test is an assessment of the drivers eco-safe driving and awareness. However, no one can fail this area of the test.  The most the examiner can do is to give the driver some eco-driving information to take away with him if he does not show satisfactory awareness of this.

The Practical 'Demonstration Test'

If a delegate intends to drive a bus or coach for a living they will then need to show satisfactory evidence of their knowledge of several subjects within the EU Training Directive syllabus by a 'show me, tell me' session that is the second part of the Driver CPC initial qualification.

Although the delegate must provide a satisfactory vehicle, preferably the vehicle that was used for the standard practical test, this 30 minute session does not involve going out onto the road.

Further information is available in the Official DSA Guide for Professional Bus and Coach Drivers, costing £9.99 and available from all good stationers - ISBN 978-0-11-552940-5.