Are you nervous about getting behind the wheel for your driver’s test?
Read this article to learn 5 driving test tips to help you pass the first time.
One of the most highly anticipated rite of passage for a teen is earning their driver’s license. However, if you’ve started practicing for the driving test, you know there’s a little more to it than pressing the gas and turning the wheel. Many teens turn to tried and true driving test tips to assure that they have mastered the skills that they need to know to pass the test.
If you’re one of them, here are the five driving test tips you need in order to pass the first time.
Practice makes perfect
While the specific requirements vary from state to state, every state sets a minimum amount of hours you should spend behind the wheel before testing. For example, in California you must spend six hours driving with a professional driving trainer and 50 hours with a licensed driver over the age of 25.
Be sure to keep track of how many hours of driving practice you’ve had, so you know exactly when you’ve hit the mark.
But that doesn’t mean that the second you hit 50 hours you need to go take your driving test.
If you’re not comfortable taking the test yet, it’s okay. Take your time and practice as much as you need to before taking the test.
Form good habits
All those hours on the road are a waste of time if you’re not using them to form good driving habits.
Before pulling out, be sure to adjust your seat and mirrors and watch for traffic.
While driving, get into a habit of checking your mirrors often so you always have an idea of who is around you. Use your blinker. Come to a complete stop at lights and stop signs. And, for goodness sake, follow the speed limit.
Know the rules
Aside from forming good habits, one of the most important driving test tips is to know the rules of the road.
Do you know who has the right of way at a four way stop sign?
Do you know when you should overtake a car and on what side?
What about all those lines on the road? You know they all mean something, but do you know what?
If not, you may want to hit the books again before you take off for your driving test. Keep track of the skills you have mastered and dedicate some time to those you haven’t.
Don’t be afraid to ask for help
Everyone you ask is going to have different driving test tips to offer you, so ask away!
The adults in your life can be a great resource because they have likely been driving for years and know what separates a good driver from a bad one.
Also ask around your peers to see if anyone has taken the test recently and ask what driving test tips they have for you.
Take a deep breath
Taking the driving test can be nerve-racking, but you know how to drive and you know the driving test tips. You just need to prove it.
If you’re having a hard time staying calm and collected, you’re going to be much more likely to make mistakes. But there are things you can do to reduce your anxiety, such as doing something active before your test to loosen up or listen to some calming music as you’re waiting.
So take a deep breath and don’t let nerves get the best of you.
If you remember what you’ve learned on the road and these five driving test tips, you’ll have no problem passing the test.