Sheffield Driving Test Centres: What You Need to Know
If you’re learning to drive in Sheffield, knowing where and how you’ll take your practical test can make a big difference to your preparation. In this guide, we’ll walk you through Sheffield’s driving test centres, what to expect on test day, and how to give yourself the best chance of passing.
Whether you're just getting started or nearly test-ready, understanding the local test centres helps you feel more confident and more prepared.
Where Are the Driving Test Centres in Sheffield?
There are two main driving test centres in Sheffield:
Handsworth Test Centre
📍 Location: Orgreave Way, Handsworth, Sheffield S13 9LT
✅ Popular choice for learners in south-east Sheffield
🛣️ Test routes include residential roads, dual carriageways, roundabouts, and hill starts
Middlewood Test Centre
📍 Location: 508 Middlewood Rd, Sheffield S6 1TQ
✅ Convenient for learners in the north and west of the city
🛣️ Test routes often include tricky right turns, stop signs, and tight residential areas
Both centres are approved by the DVSA and operate in real-world traffic conditions, so your test will include a variety of road types, speed zones, and potential challenges.
What Happens During the Driving Test?
Your practical driving test usually lasts about 40 minutes and includes:
An eyesight check
‘Show me, tell me’ vehicle safety questions
General driving on various road types
One manoeuvre (like parallel parking or pulling up on the right)
Possibly an emergency stop
Around 20 minutes of independent driving, using sat nav or road signs
To pass, you’ll need to show you can drive safely and confidently, making decisions independently and staying calm under pressure.
Which Sheffield Test Centre Should You Choose?
This often depends on where you live and where you’ve been practising.
If you're based in south-east Sheffield (S20, S21, S12, S13, S18, etc.), Handsworth Test Centre is usually the best fit.
If you live more towards Hillsborough, Walkley, or Stocksbridge, Middlewood Test Centre will likely be more convenient.
Your instructor will normally teach you on roads that reflect the challenges of your chosen test centre, and may even take you on mock test routes for practice.
Local Knowledge = Higher Confidence
Familiarity with local test routes can really boost your confidence. That’s why choosing a Sheffield-based driving school that understands these routes inside out is a smart move.
Knowing where tricky junctions, awkward roundabouts, or common hazards are located means fewer surprises on test day.
Learning to Drive in Sheffield? We Can Help You Get Test-Ready
At Sapsford Driving School, we’ve helped learners across Sheffield feel confident and prepared for their test.
Whether you're a new learner or nearly test-ready, we offer:
Tailored lessons for your local area
Practice on real-world test routes
Friendly, patient instruction (ideal if you’re anxious or need extra support)
Manual lessons in a VW Golf - perfect for learners
We also provide mock tests, early-morning lessons before school, and dedicated SEN-friendly sessions for learners with additional needs.
If you’re interested, discover more about our services and prices, or get in touch to book your first lesson!
