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.
You'll need these to pass:
- Practice
- Knowing your state's traffic laws
- Knowing you can do it!
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.
To avoid any last minute mechanical problems, give your car's signals and lights a quick check-up at least one week before you go to the DMV. If any of these don't work, they won't permit you to even take the examination. And in case you plan to drive a different vehicle for the test than the one you're used to, take it out for a few spins until you feel at ease maneuvering it - each car handles 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)
- Be gentle on the brake and gas
- Obey all street 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
- Never answer your cell phone while driving!
Your examiner will be watching to make sure you do these things - so keep these rules in mind, especially when you may be feeling nervous and forgetful. Take your test with the point of showing the examiner that you know the rules of the road and always put safety first. If you notice you've made a mistake - and everybody does! - don't lose your confidence, and keep going.
If you find yourself feeling a little intimidated by the examiner, try this trick: imagine he or she is just a (strict, overly demanding.. middle-aged? balding?) friend who's giving you directions to a party. Or maybe a pumpkin. Or naked. Whichever works for you! If you find yourself overwhelmed by nerves and doubt by test day, take a breath and trust that your practice and skills will pay off and get you through. Good luck - now hit the road and earn that driver's license!
