7.1 Responsibility for Testing

• Testing is the responsibility of the Driver and Vehicle Standards Agency (DVSA).
• The DVSA is an executive agency of the Department for Transport.
• The training material identifies five test elements for new vocational drivers.

7.2 The Five Test Modules

• Module 1a – theory test.
• Module 1b – hazard perception test.
• Module 2 – Driver CPC case studies.
• Module 3 – licence acquisition practical test.
• Module 4 – Driver CPC practical test.

7.3 Theory Test

• The theory test is computer based.
• The training material states that it contains 100 multiple-choice questions.
• Topics include safety checks, braking systems, vehicle weights and dimensions, drivers' hours and environmental matters.
• The pass mark stated in the material is at least 85 correct answers.
• The theory qualification remains live for a maximum of 2 years.
• The practical test must be passed within that period or another theory test is required.

7.4 Hazard Perception Test

• The test involves 19 video clips showing traffic situations.
• The candidate must identify potential hazards as they appear.
• The material states that the test has 100 marks available.
• The pass mark stated in the material is 67.
• The total time allowed for Module 1 is 2½ hours for the theory and hazard perception elements.

7.5 Driver CPC Case Studies – Module 2

• The test is computer based.
• Candidates are shown 7 short real-life scenarios.
• Examples include driving in icy conditions or being asked to work when due for rest.
• Each scenario has several questions, with 6–8 questions per scenario according to the material.
• The total available mark is 50.
• Questions can involve multiple choice, clicking on part of a photograph or giving a short written answer.
• The time allowed is 1½ hours.
• The pass mark stated in the material is 40 out of 50.

7.6 Practical LGV Test – Module 3

• The practical test lasts 1½ hours according to the training material.
• It includes a manoeuvring exercise at the test centre.
• It includes a road test covering different road types and traffic densities.
• Trailer tests include a coupling and uncoupling exercise.
• The candidate must demonstrate safe starting and stopping, overtaking, gear use, signalling, turning and road positioning.
• Test vehicles must meet specified minimum weight, dimensions and equipment requirements.
• The material gives a Category C test vehicle example of at least 10 tonnes real weight and at least 8 metres overall length.
• The material gives a C+E test vehicle example of at least 15 tonnes real weight and at least 14 metres overall length.
• Test vehicles must have equipment including anti-lock brakes, seat belts, a tachograph and a box body.
• The test vehicle must be capable of achieving 80 km/h.
• The test can be taken in a manual or automatic vehicle.
• Where the driver holds a manual Category B entitlement, the vocational licence issued will permit driving of both manual and automatic goods vehicles.
• C+E testing is staged: Category C must be passed before C+E training can begin.
• The C+E test can be taken in either an articulated vehicle or a rigid/drawbar combination.
• Once C+E is passed, the entitlement permits both types of combination.

7.7 Practical Test – Retakes and Cancellation

• After failing the practical test, the material states that the candidate normally waits at least 3 working days before retaking it.
• If the candidate cancels the test, at least 10 working days' notice should be given to avoid losing the test fee.

7.8 Driver CPC Practical Test – Module 4

• Module 4 is the final element of vocational licence testing.
• Candidates demonstrate practical knowledge and ability rather than simply answering questions.
• Areas include daily walkaround safety checks.
• Safe loading is assessed.
• Emergency situations are assessed.
• The material states that 30 minutes is allowed.
• It can be taken at the same time as the practical driving test or separately.