Taking a driving test is an important rite of passage for many young people. Passing the test can represent the first real step towards independence and provides a valuable benchmark for self-belief. That said, it can also be a nerve-wracking thing to do and reading up on some driving test tips is a good idea.
Do your homework. Research the practical driving test format and become familiar with the whole process and what will be asked of you on the day. Knowing what to expect should help to calm any last-minute nerves and be sure to ask your driving instructor about what to expect on the day.- Warm up prior to your test. If you can, book an extra lesson right before the test, or if not then practise by driving yourself to the test centre with a qualified driver. This will help you settle down behind the wheel.
- Try and go into your test as relaxed as possible. Avoid piling pressure on yourself by telling a lot of people about the test. Breathe deeply before you go in and make a conscious effort to relax. Mindfulness can be an important technique for relaxing yourself.
- Make an effort to focus and think positively. Push any negative thoughts from your mind and focus on how good it would feel to pass your driving test. Imagine yourself successfully performing the manoeuvres, seeing any potential hazards and driving confidently along the route.
- Being comfortable in the car you’ll be driving during your test is another one of the driving test tips. Decide in advance whether you want to use your instructor’s car or the one you’ve been practising in. Knowing the car well and being confident about things like clutch control is very important.
- People often make silly mistakes when they’re nervous. Read up on the common errors during a driving test and make a mental note to avoid them. They include things like driving at an inappropriate speed, not checking mirrors, not paying enough attention at junctions and when moving off and poor positioning of the car.
- Get to know your likely route well ahead of time. Ask your instructor to focus on the roads around your test centre and drive them as often as possible during your lessons. If you can practise on them outside of lessons, then even better. Experience as many different types of roads and junctions and roundabouts as possible before your test day.
- Prepare for any eventuality. Try and ensure that you have driven before in all kinds of weather so that pouring rain or thunderstorms don’t deter you on the day of your driving test.
- Remember that you can ask questions of your examiner. If you don’t hear something or you’re unsure what they mean then don’t be afraid to ask for clarification. Rather that than doing something silly because you aren’t sure what they said or what they meant.
- Always focus 100% on the road. It can be tempting to glance at the examiner to try and see their notes or read their expression to try and judge how well you’re doing but you mustn’t. Your eyes must stay on the road, concentrate and be alert for any possible hazards.
Good luck! Once you’ve successfully passed your driving test don’t forget to notify your car insurance provider that you are no longer a learner driver. Go Girl offer competitive car insurance policies for newly qualified drivers.
