Private candidate driving test: who provides the car?

A private candidate must arrive with a compliant vehicle and meet the required arrangements. Agree in advance with the Motor Vehicle Office or a driving school on who will provide the car.

Having access to a car is not enough

To take the practical test, you need a vehicle in the required category, suitable for the test and presented under the Motor Vehicle Office’s rules. A private car does not automatically qualify as a test vehicle just because it is insured and roadworthy. The Ministry publishes minimum specifications for each category, and the Driver Portal explains how candidates must present themselves; also check your local office’s notice.

For a category B licence, the vehicle must be suitable for the test and provide the examiner with the required conditions, including dual controls under the applicable procedure. If you do not own or have access to a suitable vehicle, you can ask a driving school to provide one. This may involve a separate fee and having the school add you to the exam list; clarify both points before paying.

Private candidate using a driving school’s vehicle

The Ministry has clarified that a candidate who applies as a private candidate may use a driving school to book the test or provide the test vehicle. In that case, the school must follow the administrative procedure and put the candidate on the correct list, identifying them as a private candidate and providing the school’s identification code where required. Using a school car does not automatically turn the entire application into a standard driving-school enrolment.

Ask the driving school whether its service covers only the car or also booking, accompaniment and administrative handling. Get the total price and cancellation terms in writing. Check the registration plate, data submission and test time; an error on the list can prevent the candidate from being called, even after payment.

If you use a family car

Before offering it, ask the Motor Vehicle Office whether the car can be used for your session and which technical modifications are mandatory. Check the registration document, vehicle condition, insurance cover during the test, dual controls and the owner’s availability. Do not install devices yourself without technical approval, and make sure the examiner can sit in the car and intervene as required.

For categories other than B, vehicle requirements are specific: lorries, buses and motorcycles must meet the Ministry’s specifications. A van or motorcycle used for practice may not meet the weight, power or equipment requirements for the test. Check the Ministry’s page for your category before agreeing on a vehicle.

Get confirmation before the test

Before booking, get confirmation from the driving school and Motor Vehicle Office about who provides the vehicle, who brings it, which documents it needs and how your candidacy will be recorded. Keep receipts and messages. You remain responsible for arriving with a valid qualification, identification and learner’s permit.

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