How to Prepare for Your Driving Test
Are you ready to take your driving test? This can be an exciting but daunting experience. So to put you at ease and help you pass the first time, here’s our guide on how to prepare for your driving test.
What to Expect
Your practical exam will take place once you arrive and register at your scheduled test centre. There are five parts covered in the test:
- Eyesight check: The examiner will ask you to read a number plate from 20 metres away. You will need to be able to read the licence plate to continue the test. Make sure you bring glasses or contact lenses if you need them!
- Vehicle safety questions: The examiner will give you two questions that demonstrate your knowledge of vehicle safety. The first will require you to describe what you need to do in a given situation. The second will require you to demonstrate what you need to do while physically driving.
- Physical driving test: With the examiner beside you, you will drive in various environments based on their directions. This route will be different each time, and you will need to demonstrate your knowledge of road rules while driving.
- Reversing test: The examiner will ask you to perform a reversing manoeuvre, such as parallel parking or parking in a bay.
- Independent driving: The examiner will direct you to follow the traffic signs or sat nav while driving independently for around 20 minutes. This part tests how safely you can drive on your own. Make sure you focus on following proper road rules rather than the examiner’s presence.
Top Tips on How To Prepare for Your Driving Test
- Try to arrive for your test at least 10 minutes early, so you have time to prepare.
- Take a final lesson on the day of your test to go over any manoeuvres or queries.
- Make sure you have everything you need before attending your test, such as required documents, glasses, etc.
- Your driving instructor can sit in the car during your test if it makes you feel more comfortable. They may be able to provide additional feedback after the test.
- Research test centres in your area. Consider the pass rate of each centre, but also consider if the testing location will properly prepare you with experience on the road.
- Get to know the area around the test centre. If you take some lessons around this location, you’ll be more prepared for the traffic or any hazards on the day.
- Book your test during a time that best suits you and when you are unlikely to have other events on your mind. Avoiding rush hour or lunchtime can also be a good idea.
- Try taking lessons during different weather conditions so you can feel more confident if the weather turns on the day of your test.
- If it has been a long time since your theory test, consider going over the Highway Code to make sure you are up to date.
NxtGen Driving Academy
At NxtGen Driving Academy, our approved driving instructors (ADIs) offer practical lessons in a relaxed setting that will prepare you for your practical driving test. To book in for manual driving lessons or auto driving lessons, get in touch with us today!
