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If you’re preparing for the new-format Restricted Licence practical test at Ashburton, the goal is to become comfortable with the local driving environment rather than memorise one exact route. The downloadable route guide gives you route maps and written turn-by-turn directions for supervised practice, so your supervisor can read the directions while you keep your attention on observation, hazards and safe driving.

From 25 January 2027, hazard perception is assessed as part of the Restricted Licence practical test. Use your route guide to practise observation, developing hazards, safe decision-making, lane positioning, speed management and confident driving on the roads around your test centre.

Test routes can vary. The aim is to become familiar with the local roads and driving situations rather than memorise one guaranteed route.

Download the local route guide for supervised practice. View it on a phone or tablet, or print it so your supervising driver can read the directions aloud while you concentrate on driving.

Use roads around Ashburton, including West Street, East Street, State Highway 1 and Cameron Street, to build familiarity with the local area. Focus on consistent observation, safe lane positioning, appropriate speed, clear signalling and early decision-making at intersections and changes in road environment.

Roads worth practising around Ashburton are listed below. They are useful for building familiarity with the local road environment, but your Restricted test can vary with traffic, roadworks and the testing officer’s directions.

• West Street
• East Street
• State Highway 1
• Cameron Street

• Build familiarity with the local road environment
• Practise observation and hazard response without memorising a script
• Give your supervisor clear written directions to read aloud
• Repeat difficult sections until lane choice and speed control improve
• Arrive at test day with fewer surprises

Nearby Canterbury test centres: Timaru · Rangiora · Northwood

View all Canterbury driving test routes

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