What happens on the lorry and bus driving test?
A former DVSA examiner's plain-English guide to each part of the test.
By Stuart Abbott, former DVSA Vocational Examiner · Last checked against GOV.UK: October 2026 · All resources
I spent three years as a DVSA Vocational Examiner, so I've seen the lorry and bus test from the other side. Here's what each part involves, and how to give yourself the best chance.
The parts of the test
Theory
100 multiple-choice questions (pass mark 85) and hazard perception (19 clips, pass mark 67). Details on GOV.UK.
Off-road
Up to 30 minutes, including an S-shaped reverse into a bay, plus uncoupling and recoupling if you're testing with a trailer. Details on GOV.UK.
On-road
About an hour of driving, with vehicle safety questions and around 10 minutes of independent driving. Details on GOV.UK.
If you'll drive professionally, you'll also need the Driver CPC case studies (part 2) and practical demonstration (part 4). See Driver CPC explained.
What the examiner is looking at on the road
GOV.UK lists what's assessed, including how you use the controls, moving away at an angle, uphill and downhill, a controlled stop, use of mirrors, and signalling. To pass, you can make up to 12 driving faults, with no serious or dangerous faults.
How to prepare
- Learn the vehicle safety questions. DVSA publishes the "show me, tell me" questions. There's no reason to lose marks on these.
- Get the reverse right before test day. Most people improve quickly with focused practice on the S-shaped reverse.
- Make your mirror checks count. On a long vehicle, early and frequent mirror use before signalling and changing speed or direction matters.
- Plan ahead. Think about road position at junctions and bends, and give yourself time and space.
- Stay calm on independent driving. If you miss a turning, keep driving safely. The examiner is assessing your driving, not your sense of direction.
- Check your test vehicle. It must meet DVSA's rules for test vehicles, or the test can't go ahead.
Official sources
Questions about your training?
Tell me what you drive or operate and I'll point you the right way. I cover Exeter, Plymouth, Torbay, Newton Abbot and the rest of Devon and Cornwall.