Everyone wants to pass the driving test the first time because these lessons are expensive, and the sooner you acquire the driving license, the faster you gain independence.
So, what is the best way to do that? Is it rushing to the nearest test center before you are ready or taking some other course before heading for the final test? The first option is undoubtedly a recipe for disaster. It will surely lead to disappointment as you are likely to fail without any preparation, which may cause some financial losses and be dangerous even. This article will tell you some interesting tips and tricks to help you glide the test without any hitches and probably save you time and money.
Practice, Practice, and Practice
Although taking a driving test can be nerve-wracking, practice is the key to staying confident. Get a learner's permit and use that to the fullest to master your driving skills. One mistake many make is practicing in one car and taking another car to the test. This error can cause a failure because you are not aware of the nature and features of the vehicle you are taking to the trial. Instead, always practice with the car you will take to test. That way, you and your vehicle will develop a harmony that will reflect during the test.
Secondly, never practice alone. Be with a partner to remain safe and are under some supervision. It can be a friend, partner, colleague, and so on. Whosoever is your driving partner, ask them to grade your practice on a scale of one to ten. Request them to be brutally honest and mark each mistake you make while driving, such as incorrect lane change, blind spot checks you are missing, signals you failed to indicate, etc.
Thirdly, parking lots are the best place to practice. You can start practicing in office parking lots which are usually empty on weekends, and have a great session.
Finally, another part of your practice session will be learning and mastering the hand signals. They are of utmost importance for tests. Practice them hard enough to become confident.
Familiarize with the Testing Area
Tests are usually conducted in areas near the testing center. Once the test is scheduled, familiarize yourself with the site. Then, go for practice in that locality to understand its character. Notice the road signs, speed limits, and potential hazards. As a result, you will know what to expect while delivering the test.
Invest in Training
Suppose you are willing to pay some extra money. In that case, you can associate with driving training and practice test companies that will assist you in every possible way, including a driving instructor. Although it may sound a bit extravagant, it can be a good investment in your journey to obtain a driving license. These instructors are knowledgeable and experienced. They can share with you their real-life lessons. Moreover, you will learn what to expect on the test day and how to deal with them.
Differentiate between Written and Practical Test
There is no reason to think that if you do well in the written test, you will do well in the practical test. Always remember, these two are entirely different setups and environments. While a good memory, a comprehensive practice test series and a bit of study can fetch you a good score in the writing test conducted in a calmer and controlled atmosphere, the same is not valid for the practical test. There you are on a real-life road with other cars passing by. You may lose your composure, become nervous, and freeze while performing the test. You may even forget the rules and guidelines you memorized. Therefore, you must take the practical test seriously and prepare differently from the written test.
Examine the Car Before the Test
Examine your car the day before the test to match the minimum standards. Such pre-test inspection may include but is not limited checking tire, the windshield to ensure there are no cracks on it, topping off the wiper fluid, adjusting car mirrors to ensure you can see all the road hazards correctly, and finally, collecting all the papers needed to prove your registration and insurance.
Holding the Steering Wheel
How you hold the steering wheel is crucial for the test. People use several ways such as 10 and 2, 9 and 3. However, most examiners prefer 9 and 3 because in case of an emergency, if the airbag needs to be deployed, it would not be hit by your hand and ensure you remain safe.
Another critical point is never to let your hands go off the steering wheels even while taking a turn. Instead, hold the wheel firmly to not slide within your palms. Finally, never stop your car too close to the vehicle before you.
