Driving Test Aids - Book

Auto Express Car Reviews

October 2005

Passing the driving test has just become harder. Last month saw the latest attempt to ensure only clued-up learners get a UK licence, with the number of potential theory test questions being increased to more than 1,200.

As there are so many answers to learn, many aspiring motorists need help preparing. A range of test aids is now available, designed to make the journey from learner to qualified driver as easy as possible.

Traditional books have been joined on the market by interactive CD-ROMs - which run on a PC - and, more recently, DVDs, which can be used on a computer or played via your TV. So L-drivers face nearly as many choices of study aid as they do test questions!

Candidates have to sit a theory exam, comprising 35 multiple-choice questions. Then, there's the hazard perception test, in which they watch 14 video clips. Both must be passed to sit a practical test - where examiners ask two questions on car safety and maintenance prior to driving.

We've given 14 study aids their own assessment to see which books, CDs and DVDs are best for helping learners to prepare for their test.

Verdict

The LDC and Focus products were closely matched in the software section, with the former taking a win due to its extra disc and content.

Among the books, the Haynes had a clearer victory over the rest as it's good in so many areas. The AA Complete Test performed well in most sections of our test, too, but we felt the practical coverage let it down.