Passing your driving test will give you a significant amount of freedom and independence. Whilst the driving test is challenging, it is very doable to pass the test the first time and many No Yelling students do. If you aren't properly prepared for the test beforehand and know what you're in for, it's easy to accidentally make simple mistakes that end up needing to try the test again. This is where driving lessons come in handy, as our instructors know exactly what the testing administrators are after and can ensure that you're ready before you even book in your test and test package. Keep reading to find out the top mistakes people make when undertaking their driving exams, so you don't do the same.
1. You're in a rush to get your licence
For some people, we know getting your licence seems like a pretty pressing thing to do. Whether that is to get your freedom and independence, to commute to work, or even to help out friends or family, we understand that it is something that might feel important to rush. The truth of the matter is though, it's not something you can rush.
The test is specifically designed to ensure that you are a knowledgeable, safe driver and are ready to be out on the roads independently. There's no point rushing to the test if you're not ready and having to pay the test fees multiple times. It can get very expensive! It's a more sensible idea to ensure that you've had some professional lessons beforehand to make sure you are ready and will have the ability to pass. Our instructors have helped thousands of students pass and will be completely honest with you when you are ready, and if you are not.
2. Not being familiar with the test area
Booking your test in an area you are familiar with is key to passing. If you do end up booking your test at a testing centre you don't usually drive around, make sure to practice driving around that area beforehand. Even better, get some lessons or book a test package that will include your driving taking you around your testing area to make sure you are confident, comfortable, and prepared.
3. Not practicing driving in a variety of conditions
As nice as it would be to be able to, you can't predict the weather. It's important to be familiar with driving in a variety of weather conditions to make sure you know how to safely and successfully. This is not just important for the test, but for keeping yourself and others safe on the roads afterward as well. Another condition to be aware of when you are booking is traffic. Consider what the traffic will be like in the area before you book your testing time and day. Will you be comfortable if it is really busy on the roads? If not, get out there during some peak times to make sure you're prepared for anything and everything.
4. Not having a pre-test lesson
I'll say it once, and I'll say it another 1000 times, pre-test lessons are HIGHLY recommended. They give you confidence, calm your nerves and ensure you're familiar with the area and maneuvers required of you. Once you've done it once in a calm environment with your trusted instructor, you will be able to pass the test easy peasy. Test packages are the best way to do this, as you'll also get to hire your instructor's car for the test for extra comfort and confidence at a sweet, sweet price.
5. Not having a suitable car
The last thing you want to be worried about when passing your test is if your car is going to pass the test as well. Don't add on extra stress by convincing yourself that you need to use your own car for the test. It simply isn't necessary. Hiring your instructor's car will ensure that you are familiar with the control of the vehicle and that the vehicle you are in will 100% pass the safe vehicle test as well.
6. Forgetting to adjust the seat, and mirrors and put on your seatbelt
As soon as you hop in the car, make sure to do your cockpit drills, the test administrator will be looking for it! If you don't put on your seatbelt you will automatically fail, and of course, you know how important it is to be able to see well out of all your mirrors. Don't forget!
7. Not indicating long enough
Make sure you've got that indication down pat. You must indicate for at least 5 seconds when leaving the curb or a car park so don't forget! It's also important to be calm and collected when indicating elsewhere as indicating too slowly, for too long, or leaving your indicator on whilst driving can confuse other drivers and your test administrator will notice this.
8. Forgetting to check blind spots
You must check your blindspots when merging, changing lanes, and doing maneuvers. It's a common mistake to forget to check your left blind spot when turning left on wide roads.
9. Not stopping properly at stop signs
Stop signs are there because they require you to stop. Yet, it's a mistake many new and experienced drivers often make which can end in failed tests, a hefty fine, or worse an accident. You must stop the whole car at a stop sign. You are allowed to move forward after you have completely stopped if you need to do so for visibility, but on after you have come to a complete stop first.
10. Afraid to ask your examiner to repeat their instruction
Your driving test isn't a listening test. It's okay if you need to ask your examiner to repeat their instruction especially if it means you'll digest and be able to perform their instruction properly.
11. Assuming that you've already failed
Nerves can all get the best of us sometimes, but don't at any time during the test tell yourself you've already failed. Even if you make mistakes in your test, it doesn't mean it's the end for you. Examiners know you're not overly experienced on the roads and you might make a mistake and if it's not a big ticket item it's okay. Assume you're doing fine, and focus is all you can do.
Lastly, even if you do fail, it's not the end of the world!
It happens to the best of us. We try out best at something, and we think we're prepared and ready but we still fail. This is just part of life and it does not at all mean you can't drive, or you'll never get your licence. It probably just means you need a bit more practice or a bit more confidence. It's really important to listen closely to the examiner's feedback if you do fail, so you know what to work on for your next attempt. Informing your driving instructor of this information as soon as you can, will also ensure that they can help you continue to practice the areas needed to get you independently on the roads soon.
And be nice to yourself, all great things come to those who wait and practice makes perfect.
