Pass The Drivers Test On Your First Try
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Well.. you’ve got your permit and a few driving lessons under your belt, and the day is fast approaching - your road test. The last hurdle to freedom. Statistics show that around fifty percent of drivers fail the first try. So you’ve got 1/2 a chance of passing, right? No way - why leave it up to luck? Read on for some time-tested tips and tricks that will boost your probability of zooming out of the DMV parking lot (at speed limit, of course) with a brand-new license.
Being prepared means:
- Practicing
- Making sure you know your state’s driving laws
- Confidence
Confidence comes with practice, so give yourself time to get the hang of driving. Once you’re comfortable in the drivers seat and things like turning, parking, and yielding have become second nature to you, you’re mostly there.
In the days leading up to your test, check the signals and lights of the car you plan to drive to ensure everything is in proper working order - so they’ll let you even take the examination. If it’s not the same vehicle you did most of your practice in, take it out for a few spins until you’re absolutely comfortable driving it, since each car maneuvers a little differently.
If you have picked up any “special” habits over the course of your driving experience, lose them! Beware of lazy or sharp turns, one-handed driving, not stopping completely for stop signs/red lights, etc. Of course safety comes first on the road, but especially so on exam day. Your examiner will be watching you, so drive carefully and keep these guidelines in mind:
- Stay a little under the speed limit (to keep an ear out for the instructor)
- Brake and accelerate gently
- Keep a look out for and obey ALL signs
- Signal each time you turn or change lanes
- Check your side and rear view mirrors regularly (much more than normal, even if you feel silly)
- When changing lanes, always turn and check your blind spot (very important!)
- Follow cars at a safe distance
- No cell phone calls or texts when driving!
These are the main things that your examiner will be watching for, so take your road test with the objective of showing him/her what a safe, vigilant driver you are. Even if you make a small mistake or two - which you probably will, and most everyone does - don’t let it faze you.
Here’s another trick: it might help to pretend that the examiner is a (strict, overly demanding.. middle-aged? balding?) friend who’s giving you directions to a party. Whatever works! If, despite everything, you find you’re second-guessing yourself on test day and wish you’d practiced more, just trust yourself and know that your skills will stand up against the nerves. Good luck - freedom awaits!
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