From 4 October 2010 your practical driving test will include a section of ‘independent driving’.
During your test you’ll have to drive by either following a series of directions, following traffic signs, or a combination of both, for about ten minutes.
To help you understand where you’re going, the examiner may show you a diagram.
It doesn't matter if you don't remember every direction, or if you go the wrong way - that can happen to the most experienced drivers.
Independent driving is not a test of your orientation and navigation skills. Driving independently means making your own decisions - this includes deciding when it’s safe and appropriate to ask for confirmation about where you’re going.
If you ask for a reminder of the directions, the examiner will confirm them to you.
Some newspapers have claimed that independent driving would lead to a fall in the driving test pass rate. This claim is based on early research where conditions did not reflect the eventual design of the new element of the test. Newer research has shown some difference in the pass rates, so get your skates on if you want to avoid these changes.