Driving Instructors Branch of Unite the Union November 2013 | Page 21

Vehicles with ‘hill-start assist’

Vehicles with hill-start assist can be used for a test. Hill-start assist is a feature that stops vehicles rolling back when they start on steep slopes.

Vehicles you can’t use

Some models of vehicle can’t be used for the test. This is because they don’t give the examiner all-round vision. They are generally convertible cars and panel vans.

You can’t use these cars for a driving test:

BMW Mini convertible

Ford KA convertible

Toyota iQ

VW Beetle convertible

Other types of convertible car or panel van may also be unsuitable. Check with the Driving Standards Agency (DSA) before booking your test.

DSA practical test enquiries

Telephone: 0300 200 1122 (English), 0300 200 1133 (Welsh)

Known safety faults

You can’t use a vehicle with a known safety fault for your test unless you have proof that the vehicle is now safe and you bring this proof to your test.

Proof

If your vehicle has a known safety issue, you must bring one of the following to your test:

the recall letter or safety notice, stamped by the manufacturer or dealer

written proof from the manufacturer or a dealer (on official or headed notepaper) that the car is safe for use in a driving test