App review · Updated July 2026
RouteBuddy review: is the driving test routes app worth it?
RouteBuddy is one of the best-known UK apps for practising the roads around a driving test centre. Since DVSA stopped publishing official routes, apps like this fill the gap by helping learners rehearse the real driving environment before test day. Here's our honest take.
What RouteBuddy does
The app maps the roads, roundabouts and areas commonly used around each UK test centre and lets you follow them on your phone or share them with your instructor. The idea is simple: the more time you spend on the actual roads near your centre, the fewer surprises on test day.
The good
- Wide coverage of UK test centres in one place.
- Handy for instructors planning lessons around an unfamiliar centre.
- Mobile-first — easy to review routes between lessons.
- Cheaper than extra driving lessons spent just exploring the area.
The catch
- No app can show the exact route — the examiner chooses it on the day.
- Routes still need real practice with an instructor to be useful.
- Coverage and detail vary by area.
Our verdict
If you learn well by rehearsing the environment, RouteBuddy is a low-cost way to build familiarity and confidence around your test centre — used alongside proper lessons, not instead of them. Pair it with the free route, pass-rate and hazard data on this site for your specific centre.
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RouteBuddy FAQs
What is RouteBuddy?
RouteBuddy is a UK driving-test-prep app that maps out the roads and areas around driving test centres so learners can practise the environment they'll be tested in, using turn-by-turn guidance on their phone.
Is RouteBuddy free?
RouteBuddy offers free access to browse routes, with paid options for the full app experience. Check the current pricing on the app before subscribing.
Does RouteBuddy guarantee you'll pass?
No app can guarantee a pass. DVSA does not publish official routes and the examiner picks the route on the day. RouteBuddy helps you practise the right roads — passing still comes down to your driving and lesson time.
