DVA report 14.0

Safe Distance Behind Vehicles on the Northern Ireland driving test

A safe following gap gives you time to see, decide and stop if the vehicle ahead changes speed suddenly.

What the examiner is assessing

Your gap should reflect speed, weather, road surface and traffic conditions, including when stationary in a queue.

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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Following so closely that your view and stopping margin are reduced.

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Keeping the same dry-road gap in wet or slippery conditions.

How to improve before the next test

  1. Use a consistent time-gap method on normal roads.
  2. Increase the gap deliberately in rain, darkness or reduced visibility.

Turn the report into practice

Other report categories

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

Safe Distance Behind Vehicles — what to improve

A safe following gap gives you time to see, decide and stop if the vehicle ahead changes speed suddenly.

Your gap should reflect speed, weather, road surface and traffic conditions, including when stationary in a queue.

Useful points to focus on
  • Use a consistent time-gap method on normal roads.
  • Increase the gap deliberately in rain, darkness or reduced visibility.

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