Doing my test without footwear?

Sugarlumps · 27-09-2010 12:14pm #1

Just a quick query, I’m about to apply for my driving test and was wondering if there is any rule regarding driving without footwear. I’ve been driving just over a year and have fairly large feet, well size 13/14 not humongous. And obviously there's millions out there with large size feet driving in shoes or runners.

I find I have total control when I drive without the aid of shoes/trainers. Find it very difficult to drive whilst wearing footwear. It's the same with drumming I prefer to play barefoot. I couldn’t find a rule suggesting otherwise in the Rule of the Road. Waiting to hear back from the RSA. Anyone ever do there test barefoot?

chin_grin · 27-09-2010 12:18pm

I remember there being a paragraph about "adequate footwear", but not sure on the legalities of none!

I'll try and root it out. Although have you tried contacting (emailing calling) RSA direct about this?

EDIT:

Ah

11. Test applicants must wear suitable footwear during the practical driving test. (Flip ﬂops/beach sandals or other backless type footwear or barefoot driving is not acceptable)

From here, http://rsa.ie/Documents/ADI/finalchecks.pdf

Sugarlumps · 27-09-2010 12:23pm

I've emailed the RSA as I'd like it in writing to show my tester on the day. I understand it’s an odd question, but thanks for your reply!

daveharnett · 27-09-2010 4:12pm

Sugarlumps wrote: »

I find I have total control when I drive without the aid of shoes/trainers.

Ditto - I'll do like to take off the shoes if i'm going for a drive of more than an hour. For the purposes of the test, I'd say look for sneakers (not proper runners mind) with the thinnest, most flexible soles you can find. Or, if you can afford to spend a bit, www.piloti.com

Faith+1 · 27-09-2010 5:40pm

I hope it's a car you drive barefoot and not a motorbike!!:eek:

Sugarlumps · 28-09-2010 7:21am

Thanks ya'll for the advice much appreciated.

davej · 28-09-2010 7:52am

Get a good pair of light, flexible shoes like Campers. Expensive but worth it.

Or of course you could always try this

davej

looksee · 01-10-2010 9:05pm

I used to drive barefoot and found I had excellent control of the pedals, but I was told I would have to wear shoes for the test, though I don't think that was an official stance, anyway I didn't chance it. I think getting used to shoes as against bare feet it much the same as getting used to driving in new shoes, it feels dodgy for a bit then you get used to it. I find I can't drive in runners though, I have biggish (!) feet and the runners get caught on the top of the footwell. I don't know how fellas with seriously big feet manage.

Doing my test without footwear?

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