Northern Ireland Driving Test Day Checklist

Licence & appointment

Correct driving licence readyHave the licence/documentation required by your DVA appointment instructions. Appointment time and centre confirmedDouble-check the centre, reporting time and any instructions in your booking. Glasses or contact lenses packed if you need themThe test starts with the eyesight check. If you need corrective lenses to meet the standard, use them.

Test vehicle

Vehicle is properly insured, licensed and roadworthyDVA can refuse a vehicle that does not meet the test requirements. L plates clearly visible front and rearThey must not interfere with the driver or examiner's view. No ABS, airbag or other relevant warning lights showingDVA states warning lights such as ABS or airbag warnings must be extinguished once the vehicle is moving. Interior mirror fitted for the examinerA suitable examiner mirror is required; a visor mirror is not acceptable. Examiner seatbelt and head restraint are suitableThe front passenger position must meet the DVA requirements. Tyres, lights and basic vehicle condition checkedDo not leave a basic roadworthiness issue until the test-centre car park. Vehicle is not affected by an unresolved safety recall that makes it unsuitableCheck current manufacturer/DVA recall guidance if your car is affected by a known notice. Enough fuel or battery charge for the testGive yourself plenty of margin rather than arriving with the range warning showing.

Before you leave

Weather and DVA updates checkedAdverse weather decisions can be local and can change through the day. Route to the test centre plannedPlan the journey to the centre, not an invented test route. DVA does not publish practical test routes. Enough time allowed to arrive and report as instructedAvoid turning test day into a rush before the assessment even begins.

Vehicle requirements source: nidirect / DVA. Always follow your own appointment instructions as the final source. Checked 22 September 2026.

Your Northern Ireland driving test day checklist.

Licence & appointment

Test vehicle

Before you leave

Find Your Next Motor

Licence & appointment

Test vehicle

Before you leave

Related NI driving-test resources

Find Your Next Motor