Emergency Stop — What to Expect on Your Driving Test

On the driving test

Only about 1 in 3 driving tests include an emergency stop. The examiner will ask you to pull up on the left, then explain what will happen. They will say “I'd like you to drive on when you're ready. Shortly I'll raise my hand and say stop, and I'd like you to stop as quickly and safely as possible.”

What Happens During an Emergency Stop

Thinking distanceBraking distanceSTOPReaction time ~0.7sBrake hard + clutch

How to Do an Emergency Stop

1

React quickly

React quickly

As soon as the examiner raises their hand, react immediately. Don't check mirrors — in a real emergency, stopping quickly is the priority.

2

Brake firmly

Brake firmly

Press the brake pedal firmly and progressively. Don't stamp on it — push hard and smooth. ABS will prevent wheel lock on modern cars.

3

Press the clutch

Press the clutch

Push the clutch down just before the car stops to prevent stalling. Brake first, clutch second.

4

Secure the car

Secure the car

Once stopped, apply the handbrake and select neutral.

5

Move off safely

Move off safely

The examiner will say “Thank you, I won't ask you to do that again.” Check all mirrors and blind spots before moving off — other traffic may have changed position.

Key Points

Common Faults

Slow reaction
React as fast as possible. The examiner is timing your response.
Not braking hard enough
This is an emergency — brake firmly. You should come to a stop quickly.
Forgetting to check before moving off
This is the most common fault. Always check mirrors and blind spot before moving off.
Stalling
Press the clutch just before the car stops. Brake first, clutch second.

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Practice emergency stop in 3D

Try this manoeuvre on real roads near your test centre in our photorealistic simulator.

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