7 top tips for driving tests

Getting your driver’s license is often seen as an important milestone. It brings a lot of joy and provides you with a sense of freedom and independence that is hard to put into words.

Passing the driver’s test is a significant achievement, and it may take longer for some than others. This process can be stressful and intimidating. But it’s important to remember that driving a car is no small task and must be taken seriously.

Even if you are feeling anxious about your driving test, there are a few tips that may help. Let’s review some helpful suggestions to make it easier for you to pass your driving test.

Tips for your practical driving test

Be Prepared 

While there is no guarantee that practice will make you perfect, it does certainly help. Taking regular driving lessons and listening to your instructor can be beneficial. Aim to spend 2 hours each week driving and continuously review the topics learnt. Your instructor should be able to identify your strengths and weaknesses through the time spent together.

You should only take your test if you feel fully prepared. Going through the exam prematurely may cause you to fail, which will not only take a toll on your confidence but also affect your instructor’s pass rate.

Double-check the appointment details and ensure you have all the necessary documents before heading out. It is essential to confirm everything beforehand for a successful visit.

Give your head space. 

Plan ahead and reach the test centre well before the scheduled time – at least 10-20 minutes in advance. This will give you enough time to get familiar with the test environment and relax before starting your exam. Arriving too early can be a source of stress, whilst being late can leave you in a state of panic. Furthermore, arriving past the time limit might make you unable to take your test and mean you lose your fee. This can create feelings of frustration and disappointment.

Make sure to get a good night’s rest and schedule your exam when you don’t have any other pressing obligations, such as picking up kids from school, etc. Do your best to be well-rested before taking your test; it may be challenging, but try to eliminate any stressors you may face.

Use your instructor’s car. 

If you are taking your driving test, it makes sense to use the car you already know. The vehicle must be in proper condition for your test, and it will make you more comfortable when operating it. Don’t stress yourself out over this; you don’t need to worry about it.

You can use your own car to practice, but remember that the vehicle you’re taking the test in must meet specific standards. It’s paramount to be aware of this, as previously highlighted. To be eligible for your driving test, the car you are using must be roadworthy with an up-to-date MOT, taxed and insured, and meet all applicable legal regulations related to its performance, such as tyre depth.

Keeping your car’s interior neat and tidy is conducive to creating a tranquil environment for your driving test and demonstrates courtesy when inviting an examiner into your vehicle.

Shockingly, if your vehicle is too messy, it can get your exam cancelled. Therefore, always keep your car’s interior and exterior in tip-top condition for the test.

By using your instructor’s car, you can be rest assured that all the necessary arrangements will be taken care of, so this won’t be something that needs attention from your side.

Take your instructor with you. 

Having a companion with you on your driving test is not mandatory, but it can be very reassuring. As long as that person is over 16 years old, you are allowed to bring them along with you. It’ll help keep your nerves in check if your instructor is there to support and guide you through it.

Having someone in the car with you on the day of your driving test can be advantageous. Not only will they be able to offer a second opinion and pick up on any points you may have missed, but they can also provide feedback so that you are better prepared next time when attempting to pass the test.

Take a mock test 

Once you’ve chosen the test centre, familiarise yourself with the area. While you won’t know exactly which route your examiner will take, your driving instructor is aware of the customary routes for that centre. Practising with a mock test under your instructor’s supervision is an effective way to familiarise yourself with the local roads, signage, and peculiarities. Being aware of potential risks and hazards you might encounter will make you feel more confident during the real assessment.

Before attempting your driving test, building up experience by practising on different types of roads and in various environments is essential. This way, you should be able to handle any situation that comes your way during the exam.

Exaggerate your mirror checks.

Good situational awareness while driving is vital, and your examiner will be looking to ensure you’re using your mirrors properly. However, failing to observe surroundings can result in minor mistakes during the test, which is a very common issue. Even if you get a small number of faults, you can still pass the test. However, if too many build up, then that could lead to failure.

It is important to ensure your examiner knows that you are using your mirrors correctly. Examiners are trained to look for this, but providing extra mirrors can make their job easier. It’s a good idea always to use your mirrors properly and pay attention during the examination. You can make your driving assessment easier by taking an exaggerated approach to checking your mirrors. To show the examiner that you are doing so, simply utter “mirrors” in a low voice as you check them.

Although it may seem like a minor detail, it can hugely impact the result.

Evaluate and learn 

Regardless of the result of your test, you’ll receive valuable guidance at its conclusion.

Even if you’ve achieved a passing grade, your examiner will point out minor mistakes so that you can work on preventing them in the future. In addition, the examiner will provide detailed feedback for failed attempts to help you understand where you went wrong and how to do better next time.

Regardless, using your examiner and instructor’s guidance and advice can help you become a better, more considerate driver. In addition, following their instruction can help you acquire the necessary skills for safe driving.

Remember, this is just the start of your journey. It’s essential to manage your time wisely when you’re driving, be aware of any new regulations and always think about how you can improve upon what you are doing– even if it’s something you’ve been doing for years.

Tips for passing your theory driving test

Passing your theory driving test is a prerequisite for taking your practical test. Here are a few pointers to help you out with that.

Book your test 

To book your practical test early, it’s essential to make sure you have your theory test ready. Starting your driving lessons can give you an extra edge – you’ll already have some idea of the roads and will be in a better position to pass the exam. Before you can book your theory test, a valid provisional driving licence is essential.

Study! 

Numerous textbooks can come in handy if you are looking for assistance in preparation for the DVSA’s theory test. In addition, the DVSA provides a handbook packed with study tips and practice questions to help you excel.

The test comprises of 50 multiple-choice questions, and you must answer 43 correctly in order to pass the exam.

Practise your hazard spotting. 

Once you’ve taken the multiple choice exam, you should take the hazard perception test. To be successful, it’s a good idea to practise for it whenever you have a chance to do so – even when you’re out and about.

Take a mock test 

Once you feel ready to go, take a practice test on the government-run Safe Driving for Life website. This exam focuses mainly on the multiple-choice component. However, it is still a great way to get prepped up and be confident before your actual licence test.

Use your time 

Make sure to arrive ahead of the exam to give yourself enough time to relax. Then, after the multiple-choice section, take a few moments to gather yourself before tackling the hazard perception test.

You have successfully passed your driving exam, and now you want to make your car look unique. Get yourself a personalised plate from our online catalogue which will surely make your car the centre of attention! Make sure to pick the perfect plate that reflects your personal style.

Contact Reg Plates today.