Theory Test Centres in Peterlee, County Durham

Driving in and around Peterlee

Peterlee sits just west of the Durham Heritage Coast and a short drive from the A19, a major dual carriageway that many local learners use daily. Understanding how to join and leave high-speed dual carriageways safely, correct lane discipline and safe following distances are all key elements of the theory test and directly relevant to driving on the A19 between Sunderland and Teesside.

Within the town itself, you’ll encounter a mix of residential estates, roundabouts and local distributor roads such as Essington Way, Surtees Road and Yoden Way. The large roundabouts near the A19 junctions and on Burnhope Way often become busy at school-run and commuting times, making knowledge of lane markings, signalling and priorities at roundabouts essential, as set out in the Highway Code.

Local hazards and road types

Peterlee has several housing estates with 20 mph and 30 mph limits, traffic-calming humps and pedestrian-heavy areas, especially around the town centre, Castle Dene Shopping Centre and East Durham College. Theory test questions on vulnerable road users – including children, cyclists and mobility scooter users – are particularly relevant when driving near local schools and residential streets in Horden, Easington and Shotton Colliery.

Just to the east, the roads towards Horden, Blackhall Colliery and the coastal B1281 can be narrower and more rural, with sharp bends, farm entrances and slow-moving vehicles. Hazard Perception clips often mirror this type of environment, where forward planning and correct use of speed and gears are critical.

Weather and coastal conditions

Being close to the North Sea, Peterlee can experience coastal mist, strong crosswinds and sudden changes in visibility, particularly on exposed stretches near the A19 and the B1320 towards the coast. The Highway Code’s guidance on using dipped headlights in poor visibility, increasing stopping distances in wet or icy conditions, and adjusting for high winds on open roads is very relevant to local driving.

In winter, routes towards Durham and the higher ground to the west can be affected by frost and occasional snow, while heavy rain can create surface water on lower-lying roads. Theory test questions on stopping distances, skidding and use of fog lights all have practical importance for day-to-day driving in and around Peterlee.

Landmarks and navigation skills

Many learners travel through or around key local landmarks such as Castle Dene Shopping Centre, East Durham College, the town centre bus station and industrial estates off Passfield Way. Even though the theory test is not a navigation exam, understanding road signs to business parks, tourist attractions on the Durham Coast, and local services helps you answer sign-recognition questions confidently.

By linking the Highway Code to real-world routes around Peterlee, our preparation materials make it easier to remember rules and apply them when it matters – both in your DVSA theory test and once you’re driving independently on County Durham’s roads.