Disqualification and Sitting the Extended Driving Test

There are a number of driving offences that could lead to disqualification. A driver can have their driving status reduced to that of a learner and be forced to sit an extended driving test.

Retesting for Disqualified Drivers

Drivers who have been disqualified and ordered to sit an extended test will usually have been convicted for serious driving offences. As part of obtaining a licence after a disqualification a driver will be required to sit a much more intense and longer driving test. The extended test should not be viewed as a form of punishment. It is simply a safety measure to ensure disqualified drivers meet the required road safety standards. Disqualified drivers will be required to apply for a provisional licence and learn to drive just as a learner would.

What Offences Might Lead to an Extended Driving Test?

Serious driving offences can include driving under the influence of alcohol or narcotics. Courts can also impose the extended test on drivers who have been convicted of dangerous driving. Motoring offences that come with an obligatory driving ban may also lead to the driver having to sit the extended test. If a driver commits an offence that leads to an obligatory disqualification then that will usually mean they face a learner driver status. The same provisional licence rules will then apply to previously disqualified drivers.

Rules for Sitting an Extended Driving Test

The rules for the extended driving test are similar to those of a normal test with some exceptions. The driver must pass a theory test, which will be in the category of vehicle they intend to drive in the practical test. One of the main differences with the extended driving test is the length of time. An extended test will take around 70 minutes; a normal test will usually take around 40 minutes. The extended test will be harder to pass and will include all driving manoeuvres.

Included in the Extended Driving Test

The extended driving test for disqualified drivers was introduced in January 1992. The extended test will be more intense than the normal driving test and will include a variety of roads including dual carriageways. The extended driving test will include:

• All manoeuvres such as reversing around corners, parallel parking and turning in the road
• Emergency stops will be included
• Reverse parking and parking in bays will be included
• Sticking to speed limits exactly and not exceeding at all
• 15 minor driving errors are permitted but no dangerous driving or serious driving faults

Lessons Prior to an Extended Driving Test

Disqualified drivers who are to sit an extended driving test should be fully prepared. Drivers should take lessons from a qualified driving instructor prior to sitting the extended driving tests. There are some driving instructors who will not teach previously disqualified drivers due to insurance problems. Many companies that hire dual control cars for teaching purposes will also not hire to previously disqualified drivers. Extended tests do come with higher fees than standard driving tests and test centres should be informed which test is being applied for.

Driving Other Vehicles and Disqualifications

Disqualified motorcyclists will be required to sit compulsory basic training when their disqualification ends. Disqualification will automatically mean cancellation of the certificate of completion that was gained through prior training. Drivers of heavy good vehicles and passenger transportation such as buses will automatically lose their driving entitlement on disqualification. Extended car driving tests may be required plus tests for each vehicle that the driver intends to use. But entitlement restoration will be the decision of the Licensing Authority as to whether this is permitted or not.

Committing serious driving offences that lead to disqualification can seriously hamper future driving even after the ban has ended. These driving offences can mean that the extended test may be required and can also make a serious difference to a driver’s insurance premiums. Drivers who use heavy goods vehicles and drive public transportation may never be entitled to drive these types of vehicle again. Further information on the extended driving test can be found at the Driver and Vehicle Licensing Agency (DVLA).

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