Original Published Test Routes
Step-by-step directions for all 19 original DVSA-published routes from Grange Way, Colchester.
Route & Road Guide
Road Type Split
Approximate breakdown based on road names and instructions across all 19 routes.
What to Expect at Colchester
- Roundabouts are a defining feature — averaging 6.6 per route. Route 6 is the most demanding with 10, including Whitehall Rd.
- Pass rate 48%, close to the national average of 47.9% — a fair test. Consistent preparation across all routes is what counts.
- Routes vary significantly in length — from 16 to 28 steps. Route 18 is the most demanding overall; Route 8 the most straightforward.
- 19 traffic light encounters across all routes — worth practising smooth stops and confident pull-aways before your test.
- Relatively open routes — averaging just 12 turns per route. Speed management and smooth progress matter here as much as junction accuracy.
- Key roads to know: Grange Way, Whitehall Rd and Mersea Rd — these appear across the most routes and are the most likely to feature on your test.
Tricky Spots on the Colchester Test
Junctions and road sections that appear frequently and catch learners out.
Most Frequent Roads
These roads appear across the most routes — be sure to practise them.
| Road | Routes | Frequency | Typical Feature |
|---|---|---|---|
| Grange Way | 19 / 19 | Left turn | |
| Whitehall Rd | 19 / 19 | Right turn | |
| Mersea Rd | 14 / 19 | Roundabout | |
| Old Heath Rd | 14 / 19 | Roundabout | |
| Berechurch Hall Rd | 9 / 19 | Roundabout | |
| Layer Rd | 9 / 19 | Roundabout | |
| Southway | 8 / 19 | Roundabout | |
| Magdelen St | 7 / 19 | Roundabout | |
| Old Heath Rd / Military Rd | 7 / 19 | Left turn | |
| Abbotts Rd | 5 / 19 | Roundabout |
Roundabout Analysis
The routes include 126 roundabouts across 19 routes — these are the most important.
Colchester Test Centre
Grange Way, Colchester, Essex, CO2 8HF
- Mon 8:00–16:00
- Tue 8:00–16:00
- Wed 8:00–16:00
- Thu 8:00–16:00
- Fri 8:00–16:00
- Sat Closed
- Sun Closed