I often get asked how my pupils pass their driving test first time. After my most recent pass, I’ve decided to write a blog about it. First of all, make sure you are ready for your test and have enough lessons beforehand. Even if you learn from your parents/relatives, you should still get few lessons from a driving instructor so that they can give you some pointers about your preferred test centres, possible routes etc. It is always a good idea to get to know the area and test routes beforehand. Your instructor will take you to all those hidden roads, country lanes and dual carriageways that you might have missed out – helping you to avoid any nasty surprises on your test day.
First and foremost, choose a good time for your test. Preferably when you don’t have other things on your mind. If you are going on a holiday or have a big work meeting the day after, its likely your mind will wonder elsewhere during your test. Also check the town where your test is – is it a market day? Is it rush hour? Is it near a school? Will the parents be doing school runs during your test? All these can affect your test. Better plan ahead for a nice time. I personally find the 10:10 am or the 11:40 slots to be nice and quiet for driving test in Bury St Edmunds.
We all hope the weather is kind on the day of the driving test, but we live in the UK, there are no guarantees. Make sure you’ve practiced in the rain and after dark – so you are ready whatever the weather. If you have a car you practice on (with a full licence holder) but you’re taking your test in your instructor’s car, I suggest not to go practice on your own car the day before. On the day of the test, try to have a lesson before the test to calm your nerves (don’t forget your provisional licence and theory test pass certificate). Make sure you get some energy drink/bars for the test and get there nice and early (20 minutes before your test). Also remember to use the facility beforehand! These might sound really simple but trust me all these little things will help make it a nice experience for you.
Go through the ‘Show Me Tell Me’ section of the test with your instructor beforehand so its all fresh in your mind. You can always ask your instructor to sit at the back of your car during your test if you need (they won’t be able to help you though!). If you do fail, they will know what to work on after your test.
Don’t try to be smart and do things you don’t usually do with your driving instructor during your test just to impress your examiner! If you don’t hear something correctly, just ask them to repeat it. If in doubt, always ask. Also don’t feel like you have to chat to your examiner. Some examiners will try to make you comfortable by chatting with you during the lessons. If you are the kind to get distracted while chatting to others, make sure you remember that and have your priorities right. Don’t be afraid to tell them nicely if you’re distracted by that. i.e. “Sorry let me just go past the roundabout first then answer your question, not being rude”
If you have made a mistake, don’t assume you’ve failed. I had pupils thinking they failed the test, but they were surprised to know they only made a minor mistake. Just do your best. Many learners fail because of lack of observation. You might have done your observation from the corner of your eyes, but the examiner might not see it. For example, if it’s a sunny day and you are wearing sun glasses, make sure you actually move your head and are a bit over the top while doing your mirror-checks. Whether you pass or fail, make sure you listen to the advice that the examiner gives you in the end. It is always a good idea to have your instructor back in the car with you before this section.
Last but not the least, don’t rush it. If your instructor says you aren’t ready – trust me, you aren’t ready. Rushing to get on the road before you’re ready can often be dangerous and failing your test will only knock your confidence.