Well, the 2nd examiner is actually testing the 1st examiner with an aim to maintain standards throughout all tests. So there are examiners that sit in on tests at a number of Driving Test Centres to make sure each examiner conducts tests fairly and comply with uniform standards around the test centre, between test centre areas and regions and in fact, around the whole country.

It is possible that 5 people can sit in on a driving test! The candidate (1) and examiner (2). The driving instructor (3) can sit in plus a examining examiner (4). The 5th person can be a translator though now driving instructors can translate if required and able.

As a Driving Instructor working mainly around Worthing and Chichester, I do sit in on a number of driving tests. This has a number of advantages but I do not insist. Only if a candidate is sure they want me present will I sit in. If they are not sure I will not go along and of course if they want to go alone I will never try to persuade them otherwise. The Driving Test is the candidates appointment, paid for by themselves; an instructor is only accompanying.

By sitting in on a test I offer a familiar face in the car but cannot enter into any conversation. What I can offer after the test is the reason why the test has the result it does and how to improve. This can be relevant if the test is passed but very important if failed and to plan lessons to pass next time.

I try my utmost to ensure candidates feel no pressure to perform well in their test just for me. Their job is to concentrate on the driving, never give up and just do their best. As long as they are properly prepared with plenty of good driving experience they should be able to cope with all situations for a positive outcome.