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Introduction
Ah, Bristol. Lovely city. But if you’re planning to take your driving test here, you’ve probably asked the big question:
“Which is the easiest Bristol Driving Test Centre?
It’s a fair one. With traffic that can swing from sleepy to full-on chaos in minutes and examiners who expect the lot, picking the right test centre can absolutely tip the scales in your favour.
We’re The Best Intensive Driving School, and we’ve helped hundreds of learners across Bristol get over the line. We know the roads, we know the routes, and yes, we know the pass rates. Let’s walk you through what really matters when deciding between Bristol’s top test centres.
Overview of Bristol Test Centres
There are a few options in Bristol, but the two big hitters are Southmead and Kingswood.
Southmead sits to the north, not far from Filton. Big roads, lots of housing estates, and generally a bit more room to breathe. Kingswood’s over east, near Longwell Green and Hanham. Busier, tighter, and packed with classic urban snarl-ups.
There’s also Avonmouth, though fewer learners tend to test there for cars.
If you want to dig into all the locations, try the official DVSA test centre finder.
Pass Rates: What the Stats Say
We’ve pulled the latest data from passdrivingtest.co.uk, and here’s how things stack up for 2024:
Southmead came in at 48.6%. Kingswood sat a bit lower at 42.8%. For comparison, the national average hovers around 47.9%.
So Southmead edges it. Not by a landslide, but enough to matter if you’re looking for every advantage you can get.
Want to see the data yourself?
Know the Roads: Southmead vs Kingswood
Here’s what it feels like from behind the wheel.
Southmead gives you a decent variety without throwing you into the deep end. The routes often roll through quiet residential bits, business parks, and a few roundabouts that are more annoying than terrifying. If you hit the A4174, you’ll need to be sharp, but overall, it flows nicely.
Kingswood is different. Busier. Tighter. You’ve got to be on high alert the whole time. That includes handling awkward right turns, squeezed traffic zones, and some truly enthusiastic hill starts.
We’re not saying Kingswood is evil. We’re just saying Southmead’s the friendlier option when your palms are already sweating.
Our Honest Advice to Learners
Some schools will just send you wherever’s got the next slot. We don’t.
We talk with our learners. We ask: how confident are you in traffic? Are you still working on clutch control? How do you handle nerves?
If you’re on the fence or looking for a smoother ride, we’ll often recommend Southmead. If you’re solid on the basics and want the urban challenge, Kingswood is fair game.
Either way, we train you for the roads you’ll actually face. We don’t believe in guessing.
Tips to Pass First Time in Bristol
Here’s what helps.
Drive the real routes. We take you through the exact test paths. Again. And again. Until it feels like second nature.
Mock it like it’s real. Clipboards. Silence. Pressure. We do it all in your mock tests so nothing catches you off guard on the day.
Time your test right. Book for mid-morning if you can. 10:30-ish avoids school runs and lunch traffic. Always a good move.
Don’t skimp on hours. If you need 20 or 30 to feel ready, take them. It’s cheaper than failing and starting over. We’ll help you figure out what you genuinely need.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which driving test centre in Bristol has the highest pass rate?
As of 2024, Southmead Driving Test Centre has the highest pass rate in Bristol at 48.6%, slightly above the national average of 47.9%. Kingswood sits lower at 42.8%. (Source)
Is Southmead or Kingswood easier for driving tests?
Southmead is generally considered more learner-friendly due to its wider roads and less intense traffic patterns. Kingswood is more urban and presents tighter, more complex driving situations, making it slightly tougher for nervous drivers.
What time is best to take a driving test in Bristol?
Mid-morning tests, around 10:30am, tend to avoid peak traffic from the school run and lunch hour. This timing provides calmer roads and a smoother experience for most learners.
How can I increase my chances of passing first time in Bristol?
Choose a test centre that suits your comfort level, train on real test routes, take mock tests under pressure, and don’t rush your course. We offer tailored intensive driving courses in Bristolto help you prepare properly.
And wherever you choose, we’ll help you prepare for it like it’s your home turf.
What It All Comes Down To
At the end of the day, it’s not just about the centre. It’s about confidence. Familiarity. Support.
Yes, Southmead gives you slightly better odds. But with the right prep, we’ve seen learners pass at both centres — first try, no drama.
Pick the place that fits your pace. We’ll take care of the rest.
Ready to Book?
If you’re looking for intensive driving courses in Bristol, you’re in the right place. We’ll tailor your training to the test centre, your ability, and your availability.
Not sure which test centre is best for you? Get in touch, and we’ll chat through your options.
Visit our homepage to learn more or jump straight to booking your Bristol course.
Let’s get you booked in, built up, and passed.
