The DVA driving test report breaks performance into specific assessment areas. Use this section to understand what each heading means, the kinds of problems that can sit under it and what to practise next.
The grade depends on what happened and how much risk it created — not simply the name of the category.
Open any category for a plain-English explanation and an improvement plan.
The practical test starts with the eyesight check. If you cannot meet the required standard, the road-driving part does not continue.
Explain this category →1.2The examiner asks vehicle-safety questions before or during the test. Incorrect answers can add a driving fault.
Explain this category →2.0You should be able to use safety-related controls without losing attention on the road.
Explain this category →3.0Basic preparation before moving protects you, passengers and other road users.
Explain this category →4.0–4.7Control covers smooth, accurate use of the main vehicle controls throughout the drive.
Explain this category →5.0–5.2Moving away safely combines observation, control and judgement of a suitable gap.
Explain this category →6.0–6.2The emergency stop tests whether you can bring the vehicle to a controlled stop promptly when instructed.
Explain this category →7.0–7.2Reversing manoeuvres require very low speed, accurate steering and continuous observation.
Explain this category →8.0–8.2The turn in the road remains relevant to the current Northern Ireland car test and combines control with all-round observation.
Explain this category →9.0–9.2Reverse parking is assessed on control, accuracy, observation and consideration for other road users.
Explain this category →10.0–10.3Mirror checks must give you information that changes or confirms your decision; simply moving your eyes toward a mirror is not enough.
Explain this category →11.0–11.3Signals should be clear, correctly timed and useful to other road users without creating confusion.
Explain this category →12.0–12.5You need to recognise road signs, markings, traffic lights and lawful signals early enough to respond safely.
Explain this category →13.0A legal speed can still be inappropriate. Your speed should match visibility, road conditions, hazards and the space available.
Explain this category →14.0A safe following gap gives you time to see, decide and stop if the vehicle ahead changes speed suddenly.
Explain this category →15.0–15.2Safe driving is not the same as excessively slow driving. You should make reasonable progress when conditions allow.
Explain this category →16.0–16.5Junctions bring together approach speed, lane choice, positioning, observation and gap judgement.
Explain this category →17.0–17.3Judgement covers overtaking, meeting traffic and crossing the path of oncoming traffic.
Explain this category →18.0–18.2Stable road position helps other road users predict you and preserves safe clearance from hazards.
Explain this category →19.0Parked vehicles and obstructions can hide doors, pedestrians, workers and vehicles about to move.
Explain this category →20.0Crossings test whether you recognise vulnerable road users early and adjust speed before the situation becomes urgent.
Explain this category →21.0When asked to pull up, the place and final position should be safe, legal and convenient.
Explain this category →22.0Awareness and planning is the ability to see what may happen next and adjust before it becomes a problem.
Explain this category →Use the result tools rather than guessing what the marks mean.
Enter your driving, serious and dangerous fault totals and see how the result is determined.
Analyse result →Select the categories on your report and build a focused practice plan.
Build plan →Work through the actual driving skills behind the report categories.
Browse skills →