Barra
Find driving instructors near the Barra test centre in Isle of Barra. Browse local instructors, view test centre statistics, and prepare for your driving test with local instructors who know the area.
The Barra driving test centre has a 60.00% pass rate across 10 tests (DVSA figures, 2024-25). The median wait between booking and taking a test here is 11.1 weeks as of July 2026.
Official DVSA figures
60.00%
Pass rate
DVSA figures, 2024-25
11.1 weeks
Average wait
DVSA figures for July 2026
10
Tests
Conducted over the period reported
6
Passes
Candidates who passed here
We don't have any instructors near Barra yet
No driving instructors are listed within 10 miles of Barra at the moment. You can search the directory with your own postcode, or use the DVSA's official service to find approved instructors near you.
About Barra
The Barra test centre serves the Isle of Barra area as a key location for practical driving tests. With a pass rate of 60.00% based on 10 tests conducted, this test centre provides valuable insights for learner drivers preparing for their practical examination. Understanding the local area and practicing with an instructor familiar with the test centre can make a significant difference in your preparation and confidence on test day.
Success at any test centre comes down to thorough preparation. Working with a local driving instructor who knows the Isle of Barra area means you'll practice on roads similar to those used during your test, become familiar with local traffic patterns, and build the skills and confidence needed to pass.
Address
The Pier, Castlebay
Isle of Barra
HS9 5XD
Book Your Test
Visit gov.uk/book-driving-test to book your driving test.
How long is the wait at Barra?
Official DVSA figures for July 2026
Average wait for a test
11.1 weeks
The median time between booking a test here and taking it.
Until appointments free up
24 weeks
How far ahead you have to look before this centre has a reasonable choice of slots.
Tests DVSA cancelled here
1
Over 2023-24, mostly weather. These are cancellations by DVSA - examiner absence, weather, industrial action - not by candidates. A cancelled test is rebooked at no charge.
See how Barra compares: waiting times at every UK test centre
Test Centre Statistics
Official DVSA figures for 2024-25
Overall Pass Rate
60.00%
Based on 10 tests
Tests Conducted
10
In the year reported
Total Passes
6
Successful candidates in the year reported
Pass Rate in Context
DVSA publish a year total for Barra but no month-by-month breakdown, so there is no monthly trend to show. Your result depends far more on your preparation than on when you book - an instructor who knows the local roads is one of the most effective ways to improve your chances.
Overall Pass Rate
2024-25
Who passes at Barra
The headline rate mixes first tests with retakes. DVSA break it down further (2023-24).
First-time candidates
88.24%
Across 17 first attempts, of which 1 passed with no faults at all. If this is your first test, this is the closer comparison.
Pass rate year by year
Every year DVSA have published for Barra, from 2007-08 to 2024-25
Financial years 2007-08 to 2024-25, ranging between 39.39% and 90%
| Financial year | Pass rate | Tests conducted |
|---|---|---|
| 2007-08 | 39.39% | 33 |
| 2008-09 | 70.37% | 27 |
| 2012-13 | 82.61% | 23 |
| 2013-14 | 77.78% | 9 |
| 2014-15 | 81.25% | 16 |
| 2016-17 | 68.57% | 35 |
| 2022-23 | 75% | 12 |
| 2023-24 | 90% | 20 |
| 2024-25 | 60% | 10 |
Test Centre Facilities & Services
Important information about the Barra test centre
Available Test Types
This test centre provides these types of tests: car.
Accessibility Information
DVSA will make arrangements for you at this test centre if you have a disability.
What to Expect on Test Day
Your driving test at Barra will follow the standard DVSA practical test format. Plan to arrive at least 10-15 minutes before your scheduled time to allow for check-in procedures.
- Bring your provisional driving licence and theory test pass certificate
- Your test will begin with an eyesight check (reading a number plate)
- You'll be asked two vehicle safety questions ('show me, tell me')
- The driving portion lasts approximately 40 minutes
- You'll be asked to perform one manoeuvre and may be required to follow sat-nav directions
Preparing for Your Driving Test at Barra
Expert advice to help you succeed on test day
Preparing for your driving test requires more than just learning to drive - it's about building confidence, understanding the local area, and practicing under test-like conditions. At the Barra test centre, success starts with thorough preparation and the right support.
Work With a Local Instructor
One of the most valuable investments you can make is working with a driving instructor who knows the Isle of Barra area well. Local instructors understand the roads commonly used for tests from Barra, know the local traffic patterns, and can provide targeted practice on manoeuvres and situations you're likely to encounter. They can also offer mock tests that simulate the real experience, helping you build confidence and identify areas that need more work.
Practice in the Local Area
Familiarity with the roads around Barra can make a significant difference on test day. Spend time practicing in the area with your instructor, paying attention to speed limits, road layouts, and common hazards. This local knowledge helps reduce anxiety and allows you to focus on demonstrating your driving skills rather than trying to navigate unfamiliar roads.
Understand the Statistics
The 60.00% pass rate at Barra provides context but shouldn't define your expectations. Every candidate's journey is different, and with proper preparation, you can exceed these statistics. Focus on mastering the skills, building your confidence, and taking your test only when you and your instructor agree you're ready.
Common Questions About Barra
Find answers to frequently asked questions about this test centre, pass rates, and preparing for your driving test.
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