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Want to increase the chances of passing your practical driving test for the first time? Download Portsmouth driving test routes to your sat nav or mobile device today!
Practise at different times of day and on different days of the week (including weekends) to experience as many different road conditions and traffic flows as possible. Knowing what to expect when you go in for your driving test will make it seem less daunting on the day.
Portsmouth Practical Driving Test Centre
Address: Opposite Fort Southwick, James Callaghan Drive, Portsmouth, Hampshire, PO17 6AR
Parking: There are parking spaces available at this centre
Toilets: Male and female toilets are available
Disabled Access: Arrangements will be made at this test centre if you have a disability
Other Notes:
Test Waiting Times: Check the book your driving test service for availability
Need an earlier driving test date and need it fast? Click here to find practical driving test cancellations at your chosen driving test centre.
Getting to the Portsmouth Test Centre
If you’re learning to drive in Portsmouth, getting to the test centre should take around 20 minutes via the M27 or A3, before turning onto the B2177 and continuing towards James Callaghan Drive. For those travelling from further out, routes like the A3(M) or A27 offer convenient access. If it’s your first visit to the test centre, it’s best to pop the postcode into your sat nav and follow the directions to make sure you arrive without a hitch.
How to Book a Driving Test at Portsmouth Driving Test Centre:
Visit the DVSA Website:
Go to www.gov.uk/book-driving-test.Sign In or Create an Account:
Log in or create an account using your provisional driving licence details.Enter Your Details:
Provide your contact information and availability.Select Portsmouth Test Centre:
Choose Portsmouth Driving Test Centre from the list.Pick a Date and Time:
Select your preferred test date and time.Make Payment:
Pay the test fee online using a credit or debit card.Confirm Your Booking:
Review and confirm your booking.
Contact Information:
Portsmouth Driving Test Centre
Phone: 0300 200 1122 (DVSA contact)
Practise real driving test routes with RouteBuddy at your test centre
Available on iOS and Android
Key Roads:
Eastern Road – Be prepared for multiple lane changes and signal awareness.
Albert Road – Watch for cyclists and pedestrians in busy areas near shops.
London Road – Keep an eye out for buses and give space for large vehicles.
Key Roundabouts:
M27 Junction 12 Roundabout – Be confident with lane choice and ensure you signal correctly.
Hilsea Roundabout – Keep in lane when navigating the slip roads.
The Queen’s Hotel Roundabout – Keep speed under control when merging.
Landmarks to Note:
Portsmouth Historic Dockyard – Familiarise yourself with tight bends and busy pedestrian crossings.
Gunwharf Quays – Watch for pedestrian-heavy areas and one-way streets.
Portsmouth and Southsea Railway Station – Pay attention to bus and cycle lanes, especially during peak hours.
Tips for Passing:
Use Mirrors Frequently – Keep checking for pedestrians, cyclists, and other vehicles.
Slow Down – Especially around busy areas and near junctions.
Practice Parking – Parallel and bay parking skills are often tested.
Portsmouth Driving Test Centre Pass Rates
Portsmouth car practical driving test pass rates by first driving attempt including zero faults recorded annual summary:
| Time Period Captured | Total Tests | |||
| 1st attempts | 1st attempt passes | pass % | 1st test with zero faults | |
| 2023/24 | – | 2767 | 49.9 | 129 |
| 2017/18 | 3452 | 1513 | 43.8 | 22 |
| 2016/17 | 3644 | 1558 | 42.8 | 27 |
“Pass Your Driving Test” – online course.
Our new and exciting online driving course, with over 50 animated videos, can dramatically increase your chances of passing your driving test. Click here for details.
Practical driving test key links
- to book your driving test, click here
- to change your driving test, click here
- to cancel your driving test, click here
- to give yourself the best chance of passing your driving test, click here
- to give yourself the best chance to pass your theory test, click here
Other Helpful Resources: Driving Test Centre Pass Rates and Change Your Driving Test
FAQ's
Yes – knowing local roads helps you stay calm and confident. While the exact route isn’t shared, practising typical roundabouts or tricky junctions nearby gives you a clear advantage.
Yes – examiners adjust routes due to roadworks, traffic, or to mix things up. These changes aren’t announced, so staying current is key.
Instructors spot new road signs, layouts, or diversions early. Their knowledge helps you train on current conditions, not outdated ones. Combine their advice with RouteBuddy for the most realistic practice.
2–3 times a week is ideal, especially leading up to your test. Practise at different times of day to handle varied traffic and lighting conditions.
DVSA doesn’t publish test routes. But you can follow GOV.UK for general updates. For realistic route practice, RouteBuddy is the go-to tool learners and instructors trust.