Website of the UK government

Eco-safe driving and riding as part of the practical driving test

Watch a video about eco-safe driving

• How to be an eco-safe driver Opens new window

If you are sitting a driving test you’ll also be assessed on your ability to drive or ride in a way that shows eco-safe driving techniques.

This assessment is not part of the existing assessment criteria for the practical test and you will not fail your test because you don’t demonstrate eco-safe driving techniques.

The driving examiner will assess control and planning, and at the end of the test will give you feedback, as guidance, on how efficiently you are driving.

Control

Always try to use the vehicle controls as smoothly as possible, with particular attention to:

• starting and moving away
• accelerating
• using gears
• driving at an appropriate speed

This reduces wear and tear on your vehicle and will help in reducing CO2.

Planning

Reduce harmful emissions by anticipating road traffic conditions and acting in good time, rather than reacting to them at the last moment, especially:

• showing hazard awareness and planning
• making use of engine braking
• stopping the engine when appropriate

Tips for ‘eco-safe’ driving and riding

How to reduce your CO2 emissions

• ACT ON CO2 On the move Opens new window

Follow these tips as a guide to safe driving or riding for economy:

• check your tyres regularly and keep at recommended pressure
  
• don’t carry unnecessary weight
• remove roof-rack or luggage boxes when not needed to reduce air resistance
• don’t exceed speed limits, accelerate gently
• consider using cruise control where it would be appropriate
• turn off your engine if you are likely to have a prolonged wait
  
• use air conditioning only when you need to
• plan your route to avoid known congestion points
  
• try to travel during off-peak times

More information on eco-safe driving and riding is available in the leaflet ‘Eco-Safe Driving - a guide to safe driving/riding for economy’.

• Download Eco-Safe Driving leaflet (PDF, 151K)

More useful links

• Greener cars and driving (environment and greener living section)

• Practical test for cars explained