Are you preparing for your practical driving test in the UK? If so, you need to be completely comfortable with Skill 27: Following Routes.
As part of the DVSA national driving curriculum, mastering independent driving isn’t just a requirement to pass your driving test—it’s the foundation for becoming a safe, confident driver for life.
In this comprehensive guide, our expert team at Cambridge Driving Academy breaks down exactly what Skill 27 involves, why it matters, and how you can ace it on your test day.
What is Skill 27: Following Routes?
Skill 27 focuses on independent driving. During this section of your practical driving test, your examiner will ask you to drive safely and make your own decisions while following a specific route.
The independent driving section lasts for about 20 minutes (roughly half the test), and you will be asked to follow a route using one of two methods:
1. Following Directions from a Sat Nav
In 4 out of 5 driving tests, the examiner will provide and set up a satellite navigation (sat nav) system for you to follow.
The Equipment: The examiner will use their own device (usually a TomTom Start 52). You do not need to bring or set up your own.
The Goal: You must follow the visual and vocal turn-by-turn prompts safely while maintaining full control of your vehicle.
2. Following Traffic Signs
In the remaining 1 out of 5 tests, you will be asked to follow standard road and traffic signs instead of a sat nav.
The Goal: The examiner will give you a destination (e.g., "Please follow the signs for Cherry Hinton" or "Follow the signs for the A14"). You must actively scan the road ahead, read the traffic signs, and navigate lanes correctly to get there.
Why Skill 27 Matters: Real‑World Independence and Confidence
Many learner drivers dread the independent driving section, but it is actually designed to help you. It tests real‑world independence and confidence.
Once you pass your test, you won’t have a driving instructor sitting next to you telling you when to turn. Skill 27 ensures that you can:
Manage your speed and lane positioning while processing navigational data.
Deal with unexpected road diversions calmly.
Maintain high safety standards without constant verbal prompts.
💡 Crucial Test Tip: You are not being tested on your navigation skills. If you take a wrong turn or miss a junction, you will not fail your test as long as you do it safely. If you realize you are in the wrong lane to turn, don’t make a sudden, dangerous maneuver—simply go the wrong way safely. The examiner will guide you back onto the route!
Top Tips to Ace Following Routes on Your Driving Test
Want to build absolute certainty before you sit in the driver's seat on test day? Here is how to prepare for Skill 27:
Practice on Local Test Routes: While examiners can change routes, practicing on common dual carriageways, roundabouts, and urban roads around the local test center helps you recognize tricky traffic signs early.
Get Used to Sat Nav Audio: Practice driving with a sat nav during your regular driving lessons. Learn to rely primarily on the audio cues so your eyes stay fixed on the road, only glancing at the screen when it is safe to do so.
Master Lane Discipline: When following traffic signs, look well ahead. Reading signs early gives you plenty of time to use your MSM routine (Mirror, Signal, Maneuver) and move into the correct lane safely.
Ready to Pass First Time? Book with Cambridge Driving Academy
Whether you are looking for manual driving lessons, an automatic driving course, or an intensive driving itinerary in Cambridge, our top-rated driving instructors know exactly how to build your confidence for the independent driving section. We structure our lessons around the DVSA syllabus to ensure you are road-ready, test-ready, and safe for life.
