Following on from the ins and outs of BE licences in Ireland in this news article on That’s Farming, we continue our series with a focus on what you need to know about your BE test day.
Firstly, ensure you arrive at the required driving test centre with all desirable documentation, including your current in-date BE learner permit.
In addition to this, your drawing vehicle must display its up-to-date insurance, NCT and tax disks and L plates as required (on trailer also).
According to the RSA (Road Safety Authority), a high percentage of driving tests do not proceed for five primary reasons, which we have listed below in this post in no particular order.
These include a fault with your test vehicle, incorrect documentation, arriving late and missing your appointment, arriving at the incorrect time or incorrect test centre or holding an invalid and/or incorrect category learner permit.
On the day of your test:
- Pre-test: Some people opt to complete a pre-test with an ADI before their official driving test, but this is optional and may suit some drivers and not others;
- Sponsor: Ensure you are accompanied to the test centre by a qualified party (someone who holds the same licence category as the one you are applying for, for at least two years experience);
- Drawing vehicle and trailer: You may pay to hire an ADI’s drawing vehicle and trailer that you have completed lessons with, or you may opt to take your own transport instead, but you must ensure that your drawing vehicle and trailer are representative of class. For example, for your BE test, the trailer must have a total weight of at least 800kgs. You will have to load the trailer on test date, as per your test app notification;
- Arrive early: Be present in the waiting area before your appointment time;
- Wear suitable footwear: Sandals, backless footwear or flip-flops are out of the equation for driving;
- Ensure your vehicle and trailer are in roadworthy condition;
- Remain calm at all times;
- Drive safely and as per the rules of the road.
BE test format
Your BE licence test begins with the same format as your B licence test with a questions session on rules of the road in the HQ, followed by a routine vehicle check outdoors.
Before the practical element of your test officially begins, your examiner will offer you the choice of reversing into the roadway either to the left or right; however, during your practice and preparation, be familiar with both.
Essentially, the test – which examines your theoretical and practical driving abilities – will cover circa 10 kms in distance and can take in the region of circa 40-50 minutes.
Once you have completed your test, the examiner will direct you back to the test centre and inform you of the outcome of your BE test, which feeds into their advised action – either gain more practice and book another test date or you will receive a certificate of competency, which will enable you to progress onto the final step.
