The day of your driving test can be one of the most nerve-wracking days in your life. However, there are many ways to overcome these nerves and pass the test with flying colours.
The main thing for you to remember is that everyone feels nervous when they take their driving test. This will be your opportunity to show the examiner that you are a safe, competent driver. If you’re feeling nervous before you even get into the car, then simply remember that this is why you’ve spent so long preparing for the day, and it will all be worth it when you get behind the wheel.
If you’re a new driver, the prospect of taking a driving test may seem daunting. But by preparing yourself beforehand you can maximise your chances of passing first time – and have fun behind the wheel.
Here are some top tips to help you prepare for your driving test:
Driving course
If you’re not too sure about your driving skills, you could take a driving course before taking the test. There are many different driving courses out there so be sure to do some research and choose one that fits your needs.
If you want to get a full and valid driving license and learn to drive in the safest way possible, it is best to hire a qualified and experienced driving instructor. These instructors can teach you everything that you need to know about driving. They will be able to train you how to drive safely and confidently on the road, which can save your life in the future, especially when you’re surrounded by other vehicles with reckless drivers.
There are also online driving courses that can help you become a better driver and help pass your exam with ease. There are some free online resources available on the internet that can help you learn how to drive more effectively.
Be focused
Now that you have sat down and prepared yourself, it is time to start your test. Remember to take deep breaths before getting into the car, as this will help you stay calm.
When it comes to the starting of the car, pull up the hand break, flick the ignition switch on and then put your foot on the clutch. Release your foot off of the clutch straight away once the engine starts. If you do not do this then it is very likely that you will stall the engine.
Being able to drive smoothly is essential to passing your driving test on the first try. When you are driving smoothly it makes it easier for other road users to see you which can greatly reduce your risk of an accident.
To start this process off, make sure that your vehicle is in gear, make sure that you are not moving forward or backward and practice moving between different gears. Keep your eyes focused on the road at all times while doing this!
Get to know the area
Make sure that you have an idea of where you are going when you are driving.
Make sure you know the layout of your local area. It is worth spending some time to get to know all the roads, roundabouts, multi-lane junctions etc before you go for your test. When it comes to the test have a think about how you will tackle each section of the test route beforehand. For example if there is a series of 3 roundabouts in a row, imagine yourself approaching them and then what it would be like if they were on top of each other.
The knowledge that you have gained will not only help with the test but also make you a safer driver after your test.
Take a deep breath and check the details
The examiner will be looking for any mistakes you make during this period. If you are nervous, they may also be trying to determine whether you can drive in a reasonably calm manner. Give yourself every opportunity to pass. Make sure you are in control of your vehicle during the entire test. Remember, in order to pass your driving test, you must show that you are in full control of the car at all times. This means that when you are pulling out, slowing down, or stopping, you must be in complete control.
Watch your speed
The best tip is to always obey the speed limits that are on the roads and that you can not go over these limits. If you do go over the speed limits that are posted on the road it will be very easy for you to fail your driving test. The second important tip is to just keep under the speed limit slightly while driving and not go too slow or else it may cause you to fail your driving test as well.
Driving lessons
One of the most important things is driving lessons. Classes will help you gain more self-confidence and avoid nervousness when taking the exam. With driving lessons you will increase your chance to pass from the first time, and that is a great thing! The key is in good preparation because it reduces anxiety and insecurity. When you have enough knowledge and know the clear rules, passing will be much easier.
Follow the stop sign
The most common mistake people do is running through stop signs and red lights. The reason why they don’t follow the traffic rules is because of their hurry and ignorance.
Know what to do at a stop sign before you go out on the road for your test. If you learn what to do at a stop sign, it will be easy for you to never make the common mistake that many new drivers do.
Even if you are too close to the stop sign to be able to stop gently, try your best not to slam on the breaks. This way you are more likely to stop at the right place and not block the road.
If you want to make sure that you are stopping at the right place, make sure that your front wheels are aligned with the middle of the stop line. This will ensure that you do not go over the line and also make it easier for you to see if there is any oncoming traffic.
Manoeuvrings on the road
To get the hang of manoeuvring, try parking in a multi-storey car park. If you don’t have one nearby, ask someone to show you how it’s done.
Parking in a multi-storey car park is good practice for other equally scary manoeuvres such as reverse parking. You should be able to do this without hitting anything.
For the emergency stop, it’s all about stopping distance and knowing when to apply your brakes.
Mistakes happen
If you do make a mistake, try to correct it straight away. If you stop or pull over, the examiner will stop checking your driving and start checking your ability to handle stress.
Try not to get flustered – If you panic when you’re driving, you’re likely to make more mistakes.
Keep calm and carry on – Make a mental note of what went wrong, but don’t let it get in the way of continuing with the rest of the test.
Driving in different weather conditions
When you start learning to drive, you will be taught how to drive in all different conditions by your instructor. When learning to drive, try to have the same routine every time you get in the car so that you are practicing in the same conditions each time you drive. For example, if it is dry outside but raining lightly, try driving at different times of the day so that you are used to driving in these conditions.
Apply these tips and be confident in your knowledge and ability. We believe in you!