Passing your driving test is one of the best experiences you’ll have. It means you can safely and confidently get behind the wheel of your dream car and go on that road trip you’ve always wanted.
Follow our simple guide to get the most from your driving lessons and you’ll be equipped to pass your driving test in no time at all.
Here’s our Cargiant guide to passing your driving test with the help of our 5 top tips.
What to expect on a practical driving test
The practical driving test is the final hurdle in the race for a full UK driving licence, with two parts to the test. The first will have you following instructions from the examiner who will test how well you perform on manoeuvres and basic knowledge of the car. This is then followed by a period of independent driving which requires you to follow traffic signs to a predetermined destination.
Practice makes perfect
According to the DVLA, learners need on average 45 hours of professional training plus a further 22 hours of private tuition.
It’s important you find an instructor you feel confident with and a car you feel comfortable in during the early stages.
Once you feel more comfortable behind the wheel and on the road, you can solicit the help from experienced drivers you know to hone your skills with.
Take your time
Allowing plenty of time prior to and during your driving test is a great step towards ensuring you pass your test. Allow at least 30 minutes before the test begins to check you have everything you need.
During the test, you should give yourself a reasonable amount of time to complete the manoeuvres and respond to the examiner's requests. Over exaggerate where you can by being clear that you are making all the necessary observations by glancing in your mirrors – if you want, explain what it is you are doing.
It might sound rather unorthodox but it shows the examiner that you a constantly aware and that there is a clear process to your actions.
Know the test route
Most test centres have a designated test route, so it’s important you know the area well and all the possible routes you’ll be driving. You should use this opportunity to familiarise yourself with the layouts ahead of you.
Remember this so when it comes to the day of your test, you will be able to anticipate potential obstacles.
Have a lesson before the test
On the day of your test, try to arrange a block of two hours before the actual test time with your instructor to prepare yourself. You can get comfortable in the driver’s seat and practice the manoeuvres your find particularly challenging.
Spending time in the car before you actually meet your examiner will hopefully provide you with a sense of calm as you would have had time to relax into your new surroundings.