How to Handle Overtaking on Your Driving Test in 2026
How to Handle Overtaking on Your Driving Test in 2026
Overtaking on your driving test can feel intimidating, but it is a normal part of driving that examiners expect you to handle confidently. Whether you are passing a parked car, a slow-moving vehicle, or a cyclist, knowing when and how to overtake safely is essential for passing your test.
This guide explains the rules of overtaking, common mistakes learners make, and practical tips to help you handle overtaking situations smoothly on test day.
When Will You Need to Overtake on Your Test?
On most driving tests, you will encounter situations where overtaking is necessary. The most common scenarios include passing parked cars on your side of the road, overtaking cyclists on residential or rural roads, and occasionally passing slow-moving vehicles such as bin lorries, tractors, or road maintenance vehicles.
You may also need to overtake on dual carriageways if the vehicle ahead is travelling significantly below the speed limit. The examiner is looking for you to make safe, well-timed decisions — neither rushing past dangerously nor holding back unnecessarily.
The MSPSL Routine for Overtaking
Every overtaking manoeuvre should follow the MSPSL routine: Mirrors, Signal, Position, Speed, Look.
Mirrors: Check your interior mirror and the relevant door mirror before changing position. You need to know what is behind you and whether it is safe to move out.
Signal: Signal if it will help other road users understand your intentions. On a busy road, a signal is usually necessary. On a quiet road with only a single parked car, a signal may not be needed — use your judgement.
Position: Move out smoothly and early. Give the obstruction plenty of room — at least a door’s width for parked cars and at least 1.5 metres for cyclists.
Speed: Adjust your speed appropriately. Slow down if needed before the overtake, then accelerate smoothly past. Do not speed up excessively.
Look: Check ahead for oncoming traffic, check mirrors again, and look for hazards such as car doors opening, pedestrians stepping out, or cyclists wobbling.
Overtaking Parked Cars
This is the most common overtaking situation on a driving test. When you see parked cars ahead on your side of the road, plan early. Check your mirrors, assess whether oncoming traffic will reach the gap before you, and decide whether to proceed or hold back.
If the road is clear, move out smoothly, giving parked cars at least a door’s width of space. Watch for signs of occupants — brake lights, reversing lights, or people sitting inside who might open doors.
If oncoming traffic is approaching, hold back in a safe position behind the parked car and wait. Do not try to squeeze through — this is a common cause of serious faults.
Practise Real Test Routes on Your Phone
The Exam Routes App gives you access to real driving test routes with turn-by-turn navigation. Practise at your own pace and build confidence before test day.
Overtaking Cyclists
The Highway Code recommends giving cyclists at least 1.5 metres of space when overtaking at speeds up to 30 mph, and more at higher speeds. On your test, the examiner will expect you to follow this guidance.
Slow down as you approach the cyclist, check your mirrors, and move out early. Pass smoothly without revving the engine loudly or cutting back in too soon. If the road is too narrow to give 1.5 metres of space, hold back and wait until it is safe.
Be especially careful near junctions — cyclists may turn without signalling, and you should never overtake a cyclist just before a left turn.
Overtaking on Dual Carriageways
On dual carriageways, overtaking is done by moving to the right-hand lane. Before changing lanes, check your interior mirror, your right door mirror, and glance over your right shoulder to check the blind spot. Signal right, move across smoothly, and once past the slower vehicle, check your left mirror and move back to the left lane.
Do not stay in the right lane longer than necessary — the examiner wants to see you return to the left lane once you have completed the overtake.
Common Overtaking Mistakes on the Driving Test
Cutting in too early after overtaking — give plenty of room before moving back to the left.
Not checking mirrors before moving out — this is a serious fault if another vehicle is affected.
Overtaking near junctions — never overtake when approaching a junction, pedestrian crossing, or school entrance.
Squeezing through gaps — if there is not enough room to pass safely, wait. Trying to force through is a common cause of failure.
Forgetting to check for pedestrians — especially between parked cars. Always scan for people who might step into the road.
Top Tips for Overtaking on Your Test
1. Plan ahead. Scan the road well in advance so you can see parked cars, cyclists, or slow vehicles early and prepare.
2. Give plenty of room. A door’s width for parked cars, 1.5 metres for cyclists. More space is always safer.
3. Be patient. If you cannot overtake safely, wait. The examiner will never fault you for waiting when it is the safe thing to do.
4. Use the MSPSL routine consistently. Mirrors, signal, position, speed, look — every time.
5. Practise on real test routes. The Exam Routes App lets you follow actual test routes with turn-by-turn navigation, so you can practise overtaking in the exact locations you will face on test day.
Frequently Asked Questions
Will I have to overtake on my driving test?
Almost certainly yes. Passing parked cars is a form of overtaking that occurs on virtually every test. You may also need to pass cyclists or slow-moving vehicles.
How much space should I give a cyclist?
At least 1.5 metres at speeds up to 30 mph, and more at higher speeds. If you cannot give enough space, slow down and wait.
Can I fail for not overtaking?
Yes. If you hold up traffic unnecessarily by not passing a slow-moving vehicle when it is safe to do so, the examiner may mark it as a fault for undue hesitation.
Should I signal when passing parked cars?
Use your judgement. If other road users would benefit from knowing your intention, signal. If the road is quiet and you are simply adjusting position slightly, a signal may not be necessary.
Ready to Pass? Download Exam Routes Now
The Exam Routes App gives you access to real driving test routes with turn-by-turn navigation. Practise at your own pace and build confidence before test day.
