DVA report 6.0–6.2

Emergency Stop on the Northern Ireland driving test

The emergency stop tests whether you can bring the vehicle to a controlled stop promptly when instructed.

What the examiner is assessing

Braking should be firm and controlled while keeping the vehicle stable. After stopping, you must regain awareness before moving away.

The category does not determine the grade by itself.A mistake can be recorded differently depending on the circumstances, repetition and level of risk. One serious or dangerous fault fails the test, while 16 or more driving faults also results in a fail.

Examples of weaknesses in this area

These examples are for understanding and practice; they are not a promise that a particular mistake will always receive a particular grade.

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Reacting too slowly to the examiner’s signal.

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Losing directional control or moving away again without full observations.

How to improve before the next test

  1. Practise with an instructor in a suitable safe location.
  2. After each stop, pause and rebuild all-round observation before moving.

Turn the report into practice

Other report categories

Reviewed against official Northern Ireland guidanceInformation checked 22 September 2026.
Official source ↗
Northern Ireland learner guide

Emergency Stop — what to improve

The emergency stop tests whether you can bring the vehicle to a controlled stop promptly when instructed.

Braking should be firm and controlled while keeping the vehicle stable. After stopping, you must regain awareness before moving away.

Useful points to focus on
  • Practise with an instructor in a suitable safe location.
  • After each stop, pause and rebuild all-round observation before moving.

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