Drivers would normally have either a valid Provisional or Full UK Licence.
If you do not have a licence, please contact the centre to discuss what other options may be available.
I normally only drive to the shops in my local area. Can I have the assessment here instead?
Unfortunately not. To be a full licence holder, the DVLA expect you to be able to drive in a range of different situations, even if this is not what you are used to. The route you will drive covers a wide variety of traffic situations and different types of road.
You will not drive in Bristol City Centre, or on a motorway.
Can I drive myself to the assessment if I have no-one else to bring me?
We would strongly recommend that somebody drives you to and from the assessment, or alternatively that you use public transport.
Some clients have stated that driving themselves to the Centre has caused them to feel more anxious and/or tired which may have affected their driving during the assessment. Also, there may be occasions when clients are advised not to drive following their assessment. This can be very stressful for the person who then may struggle to find alternative transport home.
Can I drive my own car for the assessment?
Clients are unable to drive their own vehicles for assessment. The Centre has dual controlled vehicles for safety and insurance purposes. We have both manual and automatic cars, with a variety of vehicle adaptations. We realise that the car will be new to you, so time is allocated at the beginning of the on-road assessment for you to become familiar with the car.
Do I have to be referred by my Doctor?
Anyone may apply for a Driving Assessment. Some people are referred by a health professional, some by Motability or DVLA, however, many people refer themselves.
Please see current Fees.
How soon can I resume driving following my illness?
This depends on your medical condition and you should either telephone us for advice, or consult the DVLA website section ‘Medical Conditions’. You may need to inform the DVLA of your medical condition if you have not already done so.
Do I have to drive to driving test standard?
No. Like a driving test, the assessment takes place on a pre-planned route and the Driving Advisor will give clear directional instructions, however, the assessment is not as prescriptive and differs in other ways.
Many experienced drivers over the years develop habits, both good and bad, providing these habits or driving styles are safe, this will not have an impact on the outcome of the assessment. It is important however that the driver can demonstrate safe and independent driving.
There will not be a Highway Code test as such, however, you will be expected to keep to the speed limits and react to all road traffic signs and markings appropriately.
Current costs of assessment and how to pay
The fee will depend on who is referring you. The fee will depend on who is referring you: DVLA and Motability referrals will be free to service users.
Those who are referred by a healthcare professional pay a subsidised fee, as long as the referral form is returned with the application form. (To download, please go to Our Services, Driving Assessment page and click on the Referral form button.)
Those who self-refer for a driving assessment pay a higher fee, reflecting the cost of extra administration involved in obtaining medical information. The service user may also be approached by their GP to pay a fee for providing the information to us. Driving and Mobility do not pay for this.