Category Practical Driving Test Tips

Top Reasons Why People Fail Their Practical Driving Test

So you’ve been learning to drive for a while now, and your instructor took it upon themselves to set a date for the practical driving test (which is now looming). All sorts of emotions are probably running through you right now, not least that you think you’re instructor has shown too much faith in you!

Doubt is something that creeps into everyone’s minds when they’re about to take the practical driving test and the easiest person to blame is your instructor. The fact is the professional that has been with you through “thick and thin” whilst you’ve been learning would not have put you forward if they didn’t think you were ready.

So, that’s doubt number one out of the way! The next thing to deal with is the parts of the test that worry you most, and yes it is true that the reasons for failing (listed below) are the most common. However, you don’t have to be one of those statistics so in the hope that some of what you’re going to read will sink in, let’s see if we can go some way to helping you get that pass first time!

Improper Junction Use

We list this as the number one reason for failing because it’s something ALL driving examiners look for. The reason for this is improper use of a junction can lead to a very nasty accident so it’s important you remember what you need to do.

Remember that if your vehicle goes over the stop line, it could mean an automatic fail. When you see the junction approaching, take your time (your examiner will not thank you for doing the emergency stop before you’ve been asked to). Make sure you check your mirrors as you slow down and above all, take your time!

Proper Use of Steering

It probably shouldn’t be said at this stage, but there is a very small percentage of qualified drivers who handle the steering wheel the way they were originally taught to, but that’s a story for another day. Right now, you need to remember that crossing your hands over each other is a BIG no-no. Just make sure you keep both hands on the wheel (unless you’re changing gear) and thread the wheel through them just like you have been over the past few weeks.

Reverse Parking

NO! I hear you all cry! Well, yes you will have to reverse park at some stage, and it is one of the trickiest maneuvers you will learn. However, you will not be penalized for taking your time. As long as you can show good clutch control, an ability to use your mirrors properly and proper observation of other vehicles or pedestrians, you’ll be fine.

Above All

If it helps, on the day do your best to imagine you’re just going for a lesson only this time it’s up to you to make sure there are no mistakes. It’s hard to do, but try and enjoy yourself. After all, driving is supposed to be fun if you go about it safely.

Nervous About Your Driving Test – We Can Help

So, you’ve been through all those gruelling driving lessons and then one day your instructor turns to you and says “you’re ready, let’s book the test”. What’s your first reaction? Well, it could be any number of things to start with.

You might feel very proud of yourself because the person sitting next to you in the car deems you to be a good enough student that you’re now ready to take your exam. Soon after, the nerves start to kick in and doubts start to make their way into your mind.

It’s very easy to start thinking about all the mistakes you’ve made whilst learning. But, this is not what you should focus on. A qualified driving instructor will NEVER put your forward for a test unless they think you’re ready to pass. It doesn’t do much good for their reputation for a start plus, people who teach others to drive do so for a reason – the sense of satisfaction that they’ve taught someone well enough to go out on the road safely.

When the Nerves Start to Creep In

This is when you should turn those butterflies you’re feeling into something positive. Fear can actually be a good thing (believe it or not). Your body produces more adrenalin when you’re afraid and, in turn, this makes you way more alert than normal.

This means that when you actually take your test, you’ll be far more aware of other road users and what they’re up to. It will also mean you can take things in far quicker which will help.

So, this is the first thing, embrace those nerves!

Leading Up to Your Test

These days, you have to take a theory test before you’re allowed to drive on your own. One of the biggest mistakes people make is to study like mad and try to cram in as much as they can. What you have to remember is you should rely on what your brain has absorbed, even if you can’t recall something right away.

Going mad and asking everyone you know to test you isn’t going to help really. Of course, you should do this but don’t overdo it. Instead, pace yourself. If you know you have say, a couple of weeks before your test, just take a few minutes each day to go over certain things you’re not confident about.

The Night Before

This is possibly the hardest part. The reality that you’re going to be sat next to someone that’s watching your every move can be incredibly daunting so, below are a few points you should consider:

  • Don’t skimp on sleep, if you’re tired the next day, it won’t help.
  • Imagine you’re going out for a drive and if it helps, pretend your instructor is sat next to you.
  • Give yourself plenty of time to arrive at the test centre and aim to be there at least 15 minutes before the test is due to start.

Finally, if you’ve failed before FORGET about it. Remember, thousands of people take driving tests each day and pass with flying colours and you can be one of them!

Tips that may assist you to pass the UK Driving Test first time

It is really common for men and women to genuinely feel nervous as their driving test gets closer.  The last thing anyone wants to do is fail, especially as this will have the added pain of having to pay for a retest.  Therefore, many will keep an eye out for almost any guidance or points that could aid them to pass.

  • You must unquestionably arrive early at the examination centre on the day of your test. This doesn’t only assure you don’t miss out on your booked timeslot, it will give the time to prepare yourself.
  • A good deal of individuals believe that the driving instructor wants them to fail.  The tester genuinely is in search of every opportunity to pass you and award a driving license. You will perform better when you have got this mindset.
  • Visualise yourself taking and passing your driving test.  This is a technique that has worked for many top sportsmen (and woman).
  • If want to feel fresh and alert at the time of your test then you will need to make sure that you get a good night’s sleep.  Go to bed early, don’t watch TV or any other activity that stimpulates the mind.  A hot drink like milk can also help get to sleep.
  • Do everything you can to feel as calm as possible. Have a couple of deep breaths prior to the test to unwind.
  • Don’t be afraid to ask the examiner to repeat instructions in the event you didn’t hear it accurately.

Taking and passing the UK driving test is most likely one of the most satisfying experiences you will have.  So consider the tips above as they may help prepare you that little bit more for your test.  You may find thatit helps place you in the right frame of mind to actually enjoy the practical test, pass, obtain your licence and then enjoy a the independence of being qualified to drive.

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