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Driving in Bad Weather: Rain, Ice, Fog, and Snow

UK weather is unpredictable and your test could happen in rain or fog. Here's how to adapt.

6 min read

UK driving tests take place in all weather except snow and ice. Rain and reduced visibility are common test conditions, and examiners expect you to adjust your driving appropriately.

The Full Guide

Double your following distance in wet conditions — stopping distances at least double in rain vs dry roads. Reduce speed in heavy rain. Use dipped headlights in poor visibility, even during the day. Avoid aquaplaning by reducing speed on standing water — if you feel the steering go light, ease off the accelerator gently and don't brake hard. Use rear demister and windscreen wipers.

Common Faults

  • Not reducing speed for wet roads
  • Leaving fog lights on in clear conditions
  • Not increasing following distance in poor weather
  • Harsh braking or steering on slippery surfaces

What the Examiner Looks For

  • Speed reduced appropriately for conditions
  • Correct use of lights for the weather
  • Increased following distance
  • Smooth, progressive control inputs

Quick Tips

  • 1Stopping distance doubles in rain and increases 10x on ice
  • 2Fog lights: on below 100m visibility, off above it
  • 3Wet test? Reduce your speed, increase your gap, stay smooth
  • 4The examiner will account for weather — they're assessing adaptation, not penalising conditions

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