Driving test centres in South West England

Below is a list of driving test centres located across South West England.

Select a test centre to view available practice driving test routes for that specific area.

Driving test centres include:

Driving test route features in South West England

Driving test routes in South West England are shaped by geography more than traffic volume. Learner drivers taking a practical driving test in this region should be prepared for narrow carriageways, limited road markings, and frequent changes in elevation.

Common features of driving test routes in South West England include:

• Narrow rural roads with limited passing space

• Country lanes bordered by hedges or stone walls

• Coastal roads with changing visibility and wind exposure

• Historic town centres with tight bends and uneven road layouts

• Reduced use of road markings in rural areas

• Steep hills and frequent hill starts

• Mini-roundabouts and irregular junctions

• Sudden changes from open roads to built-up villages

• Independent driving using road signs or sat nav

In areas such as Cornwall and Devon, test routes may include single-track roads where correct positioning and speed control are essential. In cities like Bristol and Bath, learners must adapt quickly to older road layouts, busier urban sections, and complex junction spacing.

Practising local driving test routes in South West England is particularly important because many roads do not follow predictable urban patterns, and mistakes in positioning or speed choice are more noticeable to examiners.

Why practise driving test routes in South West England?

Practising driving test routes in South West England allows learner drivers to:

• Gain confidence on narrow and rural roads

• Improve judgement when passing oncoming vehicles

• Prepare for hill starts and steep gradients

• Develop better anticipation on roads with limited visibility

• Adapt to historic town layouts and irregular junctions

These practice routes are designed to support learner drivers and instructors preparing for practical driving tests in rural, coastal, and historic environments.

How to use the practice routes？

Open your practice driving test routes using Google Maps or a GPS navigation app.  

Practise in different traffic conditions and at times similar to your actual test time.

1. Choose your driving test centre from the list above

2. Open the practice routes using Google Maps

3. Practise the routes with a qualified instructor or supervising driver

4. Repeat challenging sections to build confidence before the test

Routes can be accessed easily on mobile devices and used during regular driving lessons.

Frequently asked questions

Can I practise real driving test routes in South West England?

Yes. The practice routes are designed based on real test-area conditions commonly found across South West England, including rural and coastal roads.

Are driving tests in South West England harder than in cities?

They are different rather than harder. Tests often focus more on vehicle control, positioning, and observation on narrow and less structured roads.

Will practising these routes guarantee a pass?

No route can guarantee a pass. However, practising local routes can help learners feel more prepared and confident for the practical driving test.

Next steps

Choose a driving test centre above to view available practice routes and start preparing for your practical driving test in South West England with confidence.