Practical tests for tractors and other specialist vehicles

Once you have booked your practical test, your chosen test centre will contact you to arrange a suitable location.

Before your test

You do not need to do a theory test before the practical test for these vehicles.

Vehicles presented in these categories must:

• be registered for use on the public road
• have evidence of a valid road fund licence 
• have 'L' plates displayed

At the start of your test, you will need to show the driving examiner your driving licence.

The practical driving test for these categories includes an eyesight check, safety questions, a practical on road drive, followed by some questions about the Highway Code and traffic signs.

You can prepare yourself by reading the information below.

Eyesight check

If you fail the eyesight check, your test will not continue. For the eyesight check, you need to read a number plate that is a certain distance away. For more information, visit:

• Driving eyesight requirements

During the practical test

During the test, you must show you can control the vehicle, including:

• moving away safely, straight ahead and or at an angle
• bringing the vehicle to a stop normally and in an emergency, at an appropriate part of the road
• driving an appropriate course to allow you to meet, cross the path and overtake other road users safely
• turning right-hand and left-hand corners correctly
• carry out manoeuvres involving the use of reverse gear - usually the turn in the road and or left-hand reverse (except in a case where the vehicle is not fitted with a means of reversing)
• show intended actions at appropriate times by giving appropriate signals in a clear and unmistakable way
• act correctly in response to all signals given by traffic signs and traffic controllers and take appropriate action to signs given by other road users
• for tests in categories F and K only; at the end of the practical drive, you will be asked five questions on the Highway Code and other motoring matters and a sixth question made up of six traffic signs from the Traffic Signs Booklet

You can read The Highway Code for Northern Ireland signs and markings guidance at:

• Highway Code signs and markings 

Using an interpreter

If you have a driving test booked and would like an interpreter to come with you, you can have them come along with you to the test.

After the practical test

When the driving test is over, you can call the driver who came with you over so that they can hear the result and feedback with you. This feedback is useful for your ongoing development whether you have passed or failed. 

If you give your email address and had the test conducted using a tablet, you can have the test results emailed to you after the test and if you pass the test, your licence can be issued automatically, if appropriate.

You can view the guidance notes and explanation of your driving test report at:

•  Guidance and explanation of your driving test report

Driving test standards

All examiners carry out the test to the same standard. They do not have pass or fail quotas. As long as you show the standard needed, you will pass your driving test.