Learner drivers have been offered advice on preparing for and passing their driving test – from getting to know possible routes to experiencing different driving conditions.
Driving specialists from LeaseCar.uk have released ten top tips on how to pass your driving test with as few minors as possible.
Driving tests can be daunting, as research shows that only 47% of people pass their test first time in the UK.
But with the correct planning and preparation, you can be on the road in no time.
A spokesperson from LeaseCar.uk said: “Most Brits will take a driving test at least once in their lives, as being able to drive opens up new opportunities and experiences – and who wouldn’t want that?
“One of the most important things is to make sure you’ve had enough lessons in order to be completely prepared for your test. There’s no point trying to jump the gun and booking your test when you’re not ready.
“You won’t know for sure which route the examiner will take you down or which manoeuvre they’ll ask you to do until the day, so prepare for the worst.
“Whether you pass or fail, it can be a very overwhelming experience, so stay positive and try your best!”
Here are LeaseCar.uk top ten tips and advice for taking your driving test:
- Get to know the possible test routes
The route the examiner chooses to take you down will be random so, during your lessons, it is always best to make sure your instructor takes you down all the possible routes in order for you to be confident and prepared for your test. However, if the examiner takes you down a road you are unfamiliar with, be calm and look at all the road signs to give you an indication of speed limits etc.
- Don’t forget to check your mirrors
When it comes to checking your mirrors on your test, make sure your examiner knows you’re doing it. Check your mirrors all the time, but especially during manoeuvres, roundabouts and dual carriageways where there are a wider range of hazards. Doing this will ensure you are driving safely and let the examiner know that you’re in control.
- Experience different driving conditions on your lessons
Unfortunately, the British weather is very unpredictable, so you can never quite work out what it will be like on your test. Therefore, scheduling lessons with your instructor in the rain, fog, dark and clear conditions will allow you to prepare for any obstacles on your test and when driving independently.
- Plan ahead of time
Always assume there is a hazard on the next road – for example, someone crossing the road when they shouldn’t, a car pulling out of a junction when you’re approaching or a child running out onto a busy street. This will help you take a more measured approach when driving new routes, as well as giving you a better reaction time.
- Practice the ‘show me, tell me’ questions
Throughout the test, the examiner will ask you a range of ‘show me, tell me’ questions in order to gain a better understanding of your motoring and driving knowledge. They may ask you to show them how to clean the windscreen, open a window or how the horn works, so it’s good to prepare yourself and ask your instructor about the little things. The ‘tell me’ questions will occur at the start of your test, so it’s best to revise them at home and with your instructor.
- Take your time on the manoeuvres
Manoeuvres can be tricky and unnerving. The key rule is to take your time with them. The examiner will not mark you down for taking a little extra time to ensure you are demonstrating it correctly.
- Don’t focus on what the examiner is writing down
It can be distracting and unsettling having a stranger sitting next to you and judging your driving, and you might want to take a peek at their sheet of paper just to see how you’re doing. However, you shouldn’t let it – or, in fact, anything else – disturb you, as this could result in minor, or even major, faults.
- Ask the examiner to repeat themselves
If you miss a direction or didn’t hear what the examiner said, don’t hesitate to ask. You won’t get marked down for it and they will just simply repeat themselves.
- Think positively
Don’t assume that you’ve failed your test before the examiner has told you the result. It will just overwhelm and distract you. If you feel like you’ve made a mistake, just carry on and focus on the road ahead.
Notes to editor:
47% first pass rate statistic from: rac.co.uk