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Night Driving Tips for New UK Drivers

Driving at night is statistically more dangerous than daytime. New drivers are at higher risk. Here's what to know.

5 min read

The practical driving test in the UK does not take place at night, but new drivers frequently face their first night driving experience shortly after passing. Night driving accounts for a disproportionate percentage of serious accidents among new drivers.

The Full Guide

Use dipped headlights in the dark and in poor visibility (heavy rain, fog). Use full beam (main beam) on unlit roads when no oncoming traffic is present. Switch back to dipped when you see oncoming headlights — full beam dazzles. Highway Code Rule 115: do not use full beam when following another vehicle.

Common Faults

  • Using full beam in oncoming traffic
  • Not switching to dipped quickly enough when another vehicle approaches
  • Driving too fast for headlight range on dark roads

What the Examiner Looks For

  • (Test not conducted at night, but evening tests in winter months may be in dusk conditions)

Quick Tips

  • 1Clean your windscreen — smeared glass is blinding at night
  • 2Dim your dashboard if it's too bright — it affects night vision
  • 3Never drive on sidelights only — they're not bright enough for road visibility
  • 4The first time you drive in the dark after passing, do it in familiar local area

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