Eye Test for Driving Licence in Manchester: What Learner Drivers Need to Know
August 1, 2025
Are you preparing for your UK driving test and want to make sure you know everything the examiner may ask? While most learners focus on mirrors, road signs, and manoeuvres, hand signals are often overlooked — yet they’re an essential part of the Highway Code. If you’re taking lessons in Manchester, understanding hand signals is crucial, especially in case your vehicle indicators fail or in situations where hand gestures improve road communication.
At Astra Driving School, we ensure that you’re not only ready to pass your test, but also confident and safe on the road — even in unexpected situations. In this guide, we’ll break down hand signals for driving tests, when to use them, and how our Manchester-based instructors help you master them with ease.
Why Hand Signals Still Matter in 2025
Hand signals might seem old-fashioned, especially with modern indicators and hazard lights, but they’re still part of the UK driving test syllabus. The DVSA (Driver and Vehicle Standards Agency) expects learners to know and demonstrate them when necessary.
You may be asked about hand signals during your ‘show me, tell me’ questions or during your practical driving test if your indicators stop working. Being confident in using these signals shows your awareness, responsibility, and ability to drive safely under all conditions.
Essential Hand Signals You Must Know
Below are the three key hand signals every learner should know before sitting for their driving test.
Left Turn Hand Signal
How to do it: Extend your right arm out of the window and rotate it in a circular motion, anti-clockwise.
When to use it: If your left indicator is not working, or to signal your intention to cyclists and pedestrians when turning left.
Right Turn Hand Signal
How to do it: Extend your right arm straight out of the window, keeping it level with the shoulder and palm facing forward.
When to use it: When your right indicator fails, or when you want to ensure drivers and cyclists around you understand your movement.
Slowing Down or Stopping Signal
How to do it: Extend your right arm out the window and move your hand up and down in a slow, steady motion.
When to use it: To alert drivers behind you that you’re slowing down or stopping, especially if your brake lights aren’t working or visibility is poor.
When Will You Use Hand Signals in the Test?
Although it’s uncommon, examiners may ask:
- During ‘tell me’ questions: e.g., “Tell me how you’d signal if your indicators weren’t working.”
- During the practical test, if you experience an issue with lights or need to communicate clearly with pedestrians or cyclists.
Knowing the correct hand signals for the driving test gives you extra confidence and shows your preparedness for real-world driving.
Benefits of Learning Hand Signals with Astra Driving School
At Astra Driving School in Manchester, we ensure our learners don’t miss a thing — even the less familiar topics, such as hand signals. Here’s why our learners feel confident and pass the first time:
Expert Instructors
Our instructors are DVSA-approved, experienced, and patient. They know how to break down complex topics — including hand signals — into easy-to-understand lessons.
Flexible Learning Options
Whether you need evening lessons, weekend classes, or intensive courses, we tailor our schedule to suit your availability.
High First-Time Pass Rate
Many of our learners in Manchester pass their test on the first try thanks to our structured teaching and mock tests.
Affordable Packages
We offer some of the most competitive driving lesson rates in Manchester, without compromising on quality.
Driving in Manchester: Local Tips & Test Centre Insight
Learning to drive in Manchester comes with its own set of challenges — from busy junctions to tram lines and one-way systems. Here’s what to keep in mind:
Manchester Driving Test Centres:
- West Didsbury Test Centre
- Cheetham Hill Test Centre
- Failsworth Test Centre
Our instructors have extensive experience with all these centres and will take you through their common routes and challenges.
Local Tips:
- Watch out for cyclists and pedestrians, especially in areas like Oxford Road that are heavily populated with students.
- Be alert at complex roundabouts, such as the ones near Kingsway and Princess Parkway.
- Practice hand signals during lessons, especially in residential or low-speed areas, where they improve road communication.
How Astra Driving School Supports Your Learning
We go beyond just passing the test. Astra Driving School helps learners become safe, responsible, and confident drivers. Here’s what you get with us:
- Manual and automatic lessons
- One-to-one in-car training
- Mock tests and preparation
- Driving theory supports
- Lesson pick-up across Manchester
Whether you’re starting from scratch or brushing up before your test, we’ve got you covered.
Conclusion
Understanding and practising hand signals for the driving test is a small but essential step toward becoming a thoroughly prepared and confident driver. At Astra Driving School, we ensure every learner in Manchester gains the knowledge, experience, and skills they need to pass — and drive safely for life.
🚗 Ready to start learning?
Book your lessons now with Astra Driving School — Manchester’s trusted name in driving education.
📞 Contact Astra Driving School Today
Website: https://astradrivingschool.com/
Call Us: +44 7758 837589
Email: astradrivingschool@hotmail.com
Address: 11 Bowling Green Lane, Longsight, Manchester, M12 5FZ
Opening Hours: Monday – Saturday, 08:00 AM – 09:00 PM
FAQs
Are hand signals still part of the UK driving test?
Yes. While not always required in practice, they are part of the ‘tell me’ questions and are valuable in the event of indicator failure.
How do I learn hand signals during my lessons?
At Astra Driving School, we incorporate hand signals into your practical training, particularly for test readiness.
Do hand signals replace indicators?
No, they are a backup. Always use indicators first. Hand signals are used when indicators fail or to reinforce your intentions.
Are hand signals only used during the test?
No, they can also be helpful in real-life driving, such as in low visibility or when indicators malfunction.
What happens if I forget a hand signal during the test?
It depends. If it is required but not used, you might incur a minor fault. Proper preparation helps avoid this.
Does DVSA approve Astra Driving School?
Yes. All our instructors are DVSA-certified, experienced, and committed to learner success.
Where can I take lessons in Manchester?
We cover Longsight, Didsbury, Cheetham Hill, Failsworth, and surrounding areas.
How soon can I book my first lesson?
Usually within 24–48 hours. Contact us now to check available slots!
