There are presently five prohibited vehicles on the list. Other models can be used only if you have confirmation that they are safe.

These restrictions are predicated on examiner findings, and the government notes that other vehicles may be unfit as well. It recommends anybody unsure about the appropriateness of a vehicle check with it before taking a test. Check-in particular whether you want to employ a convertible, panel van, or coupe.

As per Manchester Evening News, the Smart Fortwo is the most current addition to the list of prohibited vehicles.

Learners may take their driving test in their vehicle rather than that of their driving instructor Ontario, but it must fulfill specific conditions established by the Driver and Vehicle Standards Agency (DVSA).

Car-Related Regulations

Your vehicle must:

  • Be taxed
  • Be covered by insurance for a drivers test (check with your insurance company)
  • Be drivable and have a recent MOT (if older than 3 years)
  • Have no danger lights on, such as the airbag indicator light
  • Have no tire damage and each tire has the required tread depth – A space-saving spare tire cannot be installed.
  • Be smoke-free – that is, you may not smoke in it before or during the exam.
  • Get an mph speedometer and be capable of reaching at least 62mph
  • Having four wheels and a maximum authorized mass (MAM) of 3,500 kg

The following vehicles are not permitted to be utilized in the test since they do not provide the examiner with all-around visibility:

  • BMW Mini convertible
  • Ford KA convertible
  • Smart Fortwo (2-door)
  • Toyota iQ
  • VW Beetle convertible

BMW Mini convertible

This popular model is prohibited from driving test facilities because of poor sight; examiners have remarked that the roll bars of the automobiles prevent them from viewing the back window from where they’re seated, on the passenger side.

Ford KA convertible

This automobile, like the BMW Mini convertible, has visual concerns for the examiner. After all, they must be able to identify any possible road dangers!

Smart Fortwo (2-door)

This automobile, which was added to the list of prohibited cars for driver training in March 2022, has also been criticized for impeding the examiner’s view—particularly over the right shoulder. Whether you own another smart car, you should verify with your test facility to see if it satisfies the requirements!

The Toyota iQ

The Toyota iQ, like the other vehicles on the list, hinders the examiner’s all-around view. Its pragmatic size may give it an appealing alternative for young drivers’ first automobile, but it is not a choice for passing your actual driving test.

VW Beetle convertible

The problem with this vehicle is that it restricts the all-around view from the driving instructor’s position. If this is your first automobile as a young driver, bear in mind that you will not be able to pass your test in it.

The DVSA cautions that this isn’t an entire list because not every automobile has been tested for an inspector to find it inappropriate.

Some vehicles have been recalled due to flaws. If you have one of these, you will need to show documentation that your automobile has been serviced and is safe to use (this could be a receipt for the work taken place).