The moment I learned I had passed my road test I was ecstatic. After months of drivings lessons I had finally proven myself worthy of sharing the road with other licensed drivers. For me, passing my road test was not only exciting but also a huge relief. I had taken three tests prior to that moment and failed each and every one. Learning to drive cost me a lot of money, caused a lot of stress, criticism, and occasionally fear, but in the end I conquered the metal machine that would take me from point A to point B.
Looking back I often wonder if the real reason I failed three road tests was because I was truly that bad of a driver, or because I was just plain nervous. I think the answer lies in the latter. When you get into a car with a perfect stranger and know your transportation freedom is on the line it is not hard to start to panic. Your heart races, your palms get sweaty and you forget the very basics. The mistakes I made were silly, sometimes small, but enough small mistakes make for a failed road test. The following is a list of what NOT to do if you want to pass based on my own past experiences.
Do Not Drive Too Slow
Driving too slow can be just as bad as speeding when taking a road test. Driving significantly under the speed limit shows a lack of confidence and causes an evaluator to question your abilities. When the speed limit is 35 mph, it is never a good idea to drive 15 mph during a road test.
Make Sure the Car is in Drive After starting the car during a road test be 100% sure to put the car into drive if you need to move forward. Putting the car in neutral accidentally and wondering why you are not moving just makes you look like and idiot. Putting the car in reverse when it is supposed to be in drive is a major mistake that can be dangerous to you, the evaluator, and anyone or anything that might be behind the car.
Stop at Red Lights and Stop Signs
Stopping at red lights and stop signs seems obvious. When you are very nervous or thinking about whether an evaluator has marked points off for a mistake it is very possible to run a red light or go right past a stop sign. Always stop when you need to or it is more than likely you will be taking the test again.
Don’t Drive in Parking Lanes
Some streets do not have bright yellow or white lines telling drivers where lanes start and end. Some streets will have unmarked parking lanes in addition to unmarked driving lanes. Try and avoid driving in parking lanes just so you do not have to come to close to any cars that might pass beside you. The remarks of the evaluator will not only be embarrassing but may also make you so nervous you will make another mistake.
Buckle Up The absolute worst way to start a road test is to start the car without buckling your seat belt. Always buckle up before putting the key in the ignition.
If you can avoid the above mentioned errors, always use your turning signal, avoid hitting any pedestrians or other cars, and can successfully perform a three point turn and a parallel park, getting passing a road test should be a breeze. If by chance you take a road test and fail, find comfort in knowing you can take the test again…and again.,. and again…
