Before you have managed to graduate on the day of your driving test, you already have between 40 and 50 hours of driving training and simulations. While getting through your test isn’t a sign that you are 100% perfect driver, it does indicate that you are competent enough to be allowed on roads without supervision. When you hit the streets (hopefully not literally!), it’s not just your life you are responsible for, but the life of every person sharing the road. Consequently, your attitude to safety and your limitations are important and your driving tester will be gauging this in your final driving test.
Here are some driving tips that will help you prepare:
Practice as often as you can with a good instructor: There will be many among your family and friends who hold a driver’s license. However, it doesn’t mean that they are eligible to train you. It is necessary that you always seek the advice of a professional because they don’t just know driving but are trained on how to deliver the best lessons to new learners. It’s their job to make you responsible. They gauge each of their pupil’s understanding of the vehicle and the road and device a training schedule accordingly. Work as much possible with them to be confident.
Revisit theory: Knowing road signs and the highway code is an important part of being a good driver. While this knowledge will help you make decisions faster on the road, they will also be thoroughly tested during the driver’s test. Go through the updated DVLA manuals and be ready with your sign knowledge.
Sleep and eat well: You final driving test is a big step into adulthood and it is not unnatural to be worried. However, to keep your stress levels minimal, it is important that you get proper food and rest before the test day. This will allow you to be more focused and confident.
Know the likely test routes: Usually, examiners will follow a certain route to rank your driving skills. It helps if you have prior knowledge of the route; know its turns and the practical problems you are likely to solve behind the wheels. You can go to the several websites that map the routes. Copy them to your Sat-Nav device and try mimicking the real thing. Nothing will help you prepare better!
Don’t panic: Even if you make a couple of mistakes while on your test, panicking will make you lose focus and make more mistakes. Compose yourself, take deep breaths and show that discipline that is required of a responsible driver.
Getting to know your vehicle: On the day of your test, ensure that you get a detailed rundown of the vehicle you would be driving and how to operate it – where are the indicators, window washers, petrol cap and windscreen water supply?
