How to perform a controlled emergency stop in your driving test. Learn the correct braking technique, what ABS does, and what the examiner is looking for.
6
Steps
Easy
Difficulty
1 in 3
Test Chance
20-30
mph Typical Speed
Most modern cars have ABS. When you brake hard, ABS prevents the wheels from locking up by rapidly releasing and re-applying the brakes automatically. You'll feel the brake pedal vibrate or pulse under your foot. this is completely normal and means the system is working. Keep pressing firmlyand don't pump the pedal. ABS allows you to steer while braking hard, which you can't do with locked wheels.
Before the exercise, the examiner will say: "Shortly I shall ask you to stop as in an emergency. When I say stop, I'd like you to stop as quickly and safely as you can. I will use my hand as a signal like this." They'll demonstrate a hand signal.
The examiner will say "STOP!" firmly and raise their hand. React as quickly as you safely can. Don't check your mirrors first. in a real emergency, the hazard in front takes priority.
Apply the footbrake firmly and progressively. push it hard but smoothly. Don't stamp on it suddenly. On a car with ABS, you'll feel the pedal vibrate. this is normal, keep pressing.
Press the clutch pedal just before the car comes to a complete stop. This prevents the engine from stalling. In an automatic, simply keep braking firmly.
Once stopped, apply the handbrake and select neutral. Keep your feet off the pedals. The car should be completely secure.
The examiner will say something like "Thank you. I won't ask you to do that again. When you're ready, please drive on." Check all mirrors and blind spots, signal if needed, and move off when safe.
In a real emergency, the hazard is in FRONT of you. React to it first. The examiner expects an immediate brake response, not a mirror check.
Many learners brake too gently because they're scared of stopping too suddenly. Press the brake firmly. that's the whole point of the exercise.
Keep both hands firmly on the wheel and steer straight. If the car has ABS, just maintain firm brake pressure. If no ABS, ease off slightly if wheels lock.
Pressing the clutch too early means the car free-wheels and takes longer to stop. Wait until just before the car stops, then clutch to prevent a stall.
After the emergency stop, the examiner expects you to check mirrors and blind spots before driving away. Many learners are so relieved they forget this step.
The examiner will warn you beforehand. Drive normally and wait for the signal. don't anticipate it or you might brake too early.
If the pedal vibrates, the ABS is doing its job. Keep pressing firmly and steer straight. Don't pump the brake pedal.
The examiner will only ask you to do it once. After the stop, they'll say they won't ask again. One firm stop is all you need.
After stopping, take a breath, then do full observations before driving on. A surprising number of faults happen at this stage.
Our instructors will find a safe, quiet road to practise your emergency stop technique.