Ipswich Driving Test Routes Explained: What You’ll Be Tested On

What You Need to Know

Are you going to be taking your driving test in Ipswich soon? Then you are probably wondering where the examiner will take you! Lots of people don’t realise that an examiner has to follow a set route for a driving test. Each of these Ipswich driving test routes comes with its own challenges, and we are here to talk you through some of the most common ones!

Key Locations

What are some of the most common locations and landmarks that come up on the Ipswich driving test centre routes? All tests begin at the Driving Test Centre on Wentworth Road, and from there you will proceed onto either Central Avenue, Bluestern Road or The Havens. After that, you’ll be on one of the set test routes. Without going through them all, here are some of the locations you do want to look out for:

• There are a number of roundabouts and mini roundabouts along the test routes, many of them at the start. So it’s important to remember how to navigate them even if you are nervous!
• Felixstowe Road and Nacton Road have zebra and light-controlled crossings, so keep your eyes out for pedestrians and be prepared to stop. Ravenswood Estate also includes school zones, so you will need to keep an eye on your speed, too.
• There are a variety of speed limits that you will need to pay attention to. Remember, going too slow is marked down, so be sure that you are matching the speed limit and only slow down if the conditions demand it.
• The test centre itself is located on an industrial estate, so be aware of larger vehicles such as lorries.

The Skills You’ll Need

While it might feel like your driving test is the most challenging one anyone has prepared for, all learner drivers need to come into their test with the same skills. During your test, you will have to complete a 20-minute period of independent driving, following either the road signs or a sat nav. You will also have to carry out one of the following manoeuvres:

• Bay Park (forward or reverse)
• Parallel Park in a residential area
• Pull up on the right-hand side of the road, reverse two car lengths, and rejoin traffic

You might have to carry out an emergency stop too, so be prepared to hit the brakes safely if needed!

How Your Instructor Can Help

While it is impossible to know what driving test route you will take on the day, your instructor will know some of the most common locations. This allows them to put together mock tests that get pretty close to the real thing! They will not only take into account the things that you are likely to be asked to do during your test, but also what your weaknesses are, too, so they can help you to build the skills that you are going to need to pass.

Talk To Us

To find out more about learning to drive in Ipswich and how we can help you to pass your test, please get in touch with us today!