Passing the Drivers License Test

The driving test to get a drivers license has a reputation for being a knee-knocking experience; but, the most common reason people fail is because they haven’t prepared enough. Just as you used practice tests to prepare for the written exam, you can use other tricks to prepare for the road test.

With time and effort, you can pass the driver license behind-the-wheel test on your first try. The point of the road test is not to get you to fail; it’s to see if you can handle daily driving tasks without running yourself or someone else off-road.

1. Show up on time. This is a basic rule that many people forget. The DMV has many people to serve. If you show up late for your drivers license test, you might have to return another day.

2. Bring your proof of insurance and learners permit. Without these, you will not be allowed to take the driving test. Also bring proof of drivers ed, if a drivers education or some other type of driver training course is required by the state.

3. Drive a car that works well. Most states conduct inspections when you take the driving test; you’ll need to have a car in working order (good tires, horn, license plate, mirrors, etc.) or else the examiner might send you home. (HINT: You might feel more comfortable using the same car you used for all your practice driving with your drivers permit.)

4. Remember to steer. Even if your car does not have power steering, you’ll be marked down for jerky lane changes and turns. If you have trouble with this, practice with your permit ahead of time.

5. Brake and accelerate slowly and steadily (unless there’s an emergency, of course). A sudden sharp brake at a red light will get points docked off your score.

6. Use your signals and check your mirrors frequently. The examiner will note this favorably.

7. Pay attention to the speed limit signs and go the appropriate speed for the situation. If it says 50, but it’s sleeting, then you will need to slow down accordingly.

8. Know how to merge. Mastery of this skill is important whether or not your examiner tests you on it.

9. Remain calm. If an emergency vehicle needs to get by during your test, remember how to pull over. Panicking will certainly cause you to fail the test.

10. Drive defensively, not offensively. Always suspect that the other drivers will try to cut you off or lane change into your car, and plan accordingly.