Master Your Knaresborough Driving Test: A Local’s Guide to the Test Centre Routes.

Are you preparing for your driving test in Knaresborough? If you are, knowing the ins and outs of Knaresborough’s driving test routes can make a difference to your chances of passing first time.

 At Fantoni Driving School, we’ve helped countless learners pass their tests in Knaresborough.

 With our local knowledge, you’ll be ready for any, “curve balls” the examiner throws at you. 

Let’s take a look at what makes Knaresborough’s test routes unique and how you can be ready for it. 

Why Knaresborough Test Routes Are Unique

Knaresborough can be tricky for new drivers. The Knaresborough test centre, located near St James’s retail park, features routes that blend town driving with quieter country lanes. 

Key Areas on the Knaresborough Driving Test Routes

Based on our experience, here are some common areas you’ll encounter on Knaresborough test routes and tips to handle them:

1.  The High Street.


The High Street is a hotspot for test routes, with its mix of pedestrians, parked cars, and narrow sections. You’ll need to stay alert for pedestians stepping into the road.
Tip: keep your speed low, (20 mph max) to handle the high volume of hazards.

Our instructors will take you through these areas during lessons, ensuring you’re confident with busy town driving.

2.  “Mcdonalds,” Roundabouts.

These roundabouts are a common test feature, testing your ability to judge gaps and signal clearly. It’s a busy junction, especially during rush hour, so timing is key.

See our earlier blog on judging roundabouts to help you negotiate these potential pitfalls. Here is the link:

https://www.fantonidrivingschool.co.uk/judging-roundabouts-top-tips/

3.  Boroughbridge Road and Rural Lanes
Routes often head out toward Boroughbridge Road or quieter lanes like those near Goldsborough or Scotton. These test your ability to handle higher-speed limits (up to 60 mph) and narrow, winding roads with oncoming traffic.
Tip: Stay within the speed limit, watch for hidden junctions, and practice meeting oncoming cars on narrow roads.

4.  Waterside and the River Nidd
The scenic Waterside road along the River Nidd is a favorite for examiners, with its tight bends and potential for cyclists or rowers crossing.
Tip: Make sure you are confident driving uphill. If you encounter slow moving traffic in this situation, put your handbrake on every time you stop. Otherwise, you may roll back. This is risky and doesn’t look good in front of a driving examiner.

5.  Independent Driving with Satnav
Since 2017, the DVSA has included a 20-minute independent driving section, often using a satnav. In Knaresborough, you might be directed toward areas like Chain Lane or Aspin Lane.
Tip: Practice following satnav instructions without panicking if you take a wrong turn—examiners care more about safe driving than perfect navigation. We use the exact same satnav as used on the driving test to help prepare you.

Top Tips to Ace Your Knaresborough Driving Test

1.  Know Your Manoeuvres: Expect to perform one manoeuvre, like parallel parking near Gracious Street or a bay park at Morrisons/Pc world car park. Practice these with an instructor or a family member or relative.

Knowing your manoeuvres is important, however make sure you’re competent in ALL areas of driving (eg observing junctions properly) as very few people fail their driving tests on manoeuvres.

2.  Eco-Driving Matters: Examiners love smooth, fuel-efficient driving. Learn eco-driving techniques—like gentle acceleration and early braking.

3.Stay Calm Under Pressure: Knaresborough’s routes can feel intense with tourists or rush-hour traffic. Our mock tests replicate real conditions, so there’ll be no nasty surprises when it comes to the real thing.

Why Choose Fantoni Driving School for Knaresborough Driving Test Success?

At Fantoni Driving School, we pride ourselves on our local expertise and a personalized approach. Our DVSA-approved instructors know Knaresborough’s test routes inside out and back to front. We offer flexible lesson plans, including intensive driving courses for those wanting to pass at a quicker pace. Plus, our modern tuition vehicles help in sustainable driving skills that save fuel and reduce emissions.

In 2025, with a national shortage of driving instructors (down to an estimated 38,000), booking early is crucial. Our pass rate is among the best in Ripon and Knaresborough area. Reading into our latest pass rate, (available on request) you are twice as likely to pass driving one of our driving school cars!

Book Your Driving Lessons Today with us today!

Ready to conquer Knaresborough’s driving test routes? Don’t wait—secure your spot with us and start your journey to a full licence. Contact us today. Call or text us on 07912147090. Let’s get you ready to PASS your driving test!