How to Study for Your Driving Exam and What to Expect on the Big Day
It’s normal to be anxious on the day of your driving test; it’s your first time doing so. Read this to know what the test day would be like.
Most people are nervous on the day of their driving test. However, this is not necessary. Your training and experience thus far should have prepared you well. Keep in mind that the test will not include any questions or tasks that have not already been covered in depth in your classes.
The evening before the driving test
If you can, try to get a full night’s rest the night before. This will aid in concentration during the exam. Your reflexes may be slower than usual if you’re overtired. In other words, go to sleep.
Your friends and family may be less supportive if they know you’re taking the test. In that way, you won’t have to worry about living up to anyone’s high standards. And, best case scenario, avoid any unwarranted scare tales.
Test-day morning
Most driving schools advise taking a session right before the exam. This is an opportunity to get toasty for about an hour. Get your test-day anxiety out by making some blunders you won’t repeat.
You should arrive at the testing location at least 15 minutes before the scheduled start time. You’ll have time to introduce yourself, drink some water, use the restroom, etc. Everything will take place at your own pace, but you won’t have to wait around for very long.
What should I bring with me on the day of my driving test?
Make sure you have these items with you on exam day:
Your Learner’s Permit
Proof that you passed the theory test
A vehicle; usually students use their teacher’s car, but you’re free to use your own if you like.
What happens at the outset of the driving test?
The examiner will check your eyesight before you begin. You’ll need to be able to read a licence plate from 20 metres away on a parked car. The eyesight requirement is the only part of the driving exam that can result in an automatic fail.
An approximate distance of 5 car lengths can be covered in 20 metres. In order to determine if your eyesight is adequate for the driving test, all you have to do is see if you can read a clean number plate from a distance of five vehicle lengths.
The Show me, tell me questions will then be put to you on the safety of your car. The Tell Me is asked at the start of the test, whilst the Show Me is asked on route whilst you are driving.
When I take my driving test, what should I anticipate?
It usually takes about 40 minutes to complete the driving test in its entirety. Your driving skills and knowledge will be evaluated in a wide range of road situations.
During your exam, you will be evaluated on the following:
“Show me, tell me” Questions
Test of one’s visual acuity. (Eyesight test)
Capacity to drive in general
To drive backwards in a car
Steering Control
A sudden stop (Emergency Stop) is something that you can be expected to do as well. You won’t have to perform this dangerous task, though, so don’t worry.
Things to keep in mind while taking the test
The examiner will not be holding you to the same standards as a professional driver because you are not one.
Your test score will not be impacted if you get lost or forget where you’re going.
Expert motorists routinely get lost or go the wrong way.
There is a 15-minor threshold beyond which your driving test score will not be altered, meaning that you can make up to 15 minor mistakes without failing the exam. And if you make a mistake, don’t freak out!
You will fail, though, if you commit more than 15 harmless mistakes or a single, major error.
When I pass my driving exam, what comes next?
As soon as you pull into the testing facility after the test, the examiner will let you know how you did. The examiner will do the following if you pass the test:
Let you know where you went wrong, if anywhere.
Issue you a pass certificate.
Check the box if you want the whole licence to be emailed to you (within 3 weeks). If so, please present your provisional licence to the examiner.
At this point, you are free to begin driving as a full licence holder… The insurance you had as a learner driver, however, is no longer valid.
Even if you only need it to bring you back home, you should acquire short-term insurance if you haven’t yet settled on an annual coverage. You must be at least 21 years old to qualify for temporary coverage if you took your test in your own vehicle. That’s because first you need some hands-on experience. Whoever is under 21 and has driven for at least six months knows where to locate us.
In case of failure, the examiner will provide feedback on where you went wrong. Just remember that failing the test is not the end of the world and that you can schedule another exam within 10 business days. We also have some helpful suggestions for you to consider if you do not pass the examination.