The Aberdeen Knowledge Test, Explained Properly

If you’ve searched for this, you’ve probably already heard the horror stories. The good news is the test itself is straightforward once you know the structure. This page walks through exactly what you’ll face on the day, how it’s scored, and what actually trips people up.
How it Works

Aberdeen Street Knowledge Mock Test

Practise with three mockup test modules, matching the format of the official test: 20 questions, 20 minutes each.

Street Test

Name a connecting road between two roads.

20 questions · 20 minutes

POI Test

Name the street where you'll find these places of interest.

20 questions · 20 minutes

Route Test

Pick the road sequence that forms the correct route.

20 questions · 20 minutes

What to Expect When You Sit Down

You’ll have 20 minutes to answer 20 questions, a mix pulled from all three categories above.
There’s no calculator, no satnav, and no second guessing out loud, just you and your memory of the city.
Most test centres run this as a written or on-screen format rather than an oral exam, so practising with timed mock tests matters as much as knowing the answers.
Nerves cost more people marks than genuinely not knowing the material.

The Numbers Worth Knowing

20 questions. 20 minutes.
Multiple attempts allowed if you don’t pass first time, though repeated fails can mean a longer wait before you can resit.
Most successful candidates report three to six months of steady study before booking.

Common Questions About the Test Itself

Is the test the same for taxi and private hire drivers?
The core knowledge overlap is high, but check with the council directly on any differences in your specific licence category, since requirements can be updated.
No, the test is done from memory.
You can usually rebook, though there may be a minimum waiting period.
Use the gap to target your weak categories rather than restudying everything from scratch.
Most residents know a handful of routes on autopilot.
The test expects city-wide coverage, including areas you might never personally drive through.

Ready to See Where You Actually Stand?

Reading about the test only gets you so far.
Try a timed mock Street, POI, or Route Test and find out which category needs the most work before test day arrives.