Preparing for the Practical Test

There is no minimum number of lessons which can confirm you are ready before booking or taking a driving test. You will know that you are ready when you can drive and talk to your instructor at the same time. Unfortunately, most learner drivers don’t always pass on their first attempt, less than 50% of first timers are able to pass their driving test the first time around. However, that does not mean it is not possible to pass the first time.

To pass your driving test:

You must be able to drive safely on various roads, traffic conditions.
You must be able to show, through your driving that you are aware of all the rules and regulations are shown in The Highway Code
Be able to safely judge real-life situations on the road

We have put together a preparations plan, which can help all you first timers or even if you have attempted a test. To build your confidence and help you prepare further for the driving test. Below are some helpful tips. Use these tips to help you prepare and help you make the most out of your driving lessons.

Have a Developing Lessons Plan

Whether being taught by friends or family or a driving instructor. Having a structured lesson plan will help you progress further in your driving. Understand your strength and weakness in driving, and how you can improve. Conquering your weak areas can be difficult and can take a lot of your time and practice before being perfect. Being able to understand the weak area is progress in itself. Knowing the weak area will determine you more to progress and improve in that certain area.

Get Hours Behind The Wheel

Everyone’s heard of practice makes perfection. Try to get as many hours behind the wheel as you can. Practising with your driving instructor can be expensive but it is worthwhile. Getting professional guidance is always helpful, an instructor will be able to pick up on the little mistakes, which other drivers may not. If you are going to get practice with family and friends, make sure they’re over 21 and have had a licence for at least 3 years.

No Minimum Number of Lessons

There is no minimum number of lessons which can determine how long it’ll take to pass your driving test, or even learn how to drive. Many learners may get it straight away, whereas others may take longer to get the grasp of driving. Having a structured lessons plan will help you learn, practice and plan. When driving, you need to be able to drive the vehicle, as well as be aware of the road and your surroundings.

Understanding The Highway Code

The Highway Code is made up of all the rules and regulations for the road, for all road users. The Highway Code plays a major part during the theory test, hence why all learners must take the theory before taking the practical. Learners need to be aware of and understand the rules and regulations of the road before driving on the road. Not being aware of these rules will lead to penalties and fines. Understanding the rules and regulations of the road will help you as a learner on the road. You’ll be aware of signs and will be able to approach road or junctions according to without being a threat to other road users.

Sat Nav

The DVSA have introduced the Sat Nav during the independent driving. The examiner will enter an address and they will expect you to drive to the locations following the satnav, as well as paying attention to the vehicle, the road, road signs and other roads. Try to get as much as practice as you can. Even if your walking, you can use google maps on your phone. Enter your destination location and follow the route. This will help you practise on how to use a map and follow instructions.

Drive in different weather conditions and time

Different weather conditions do affect road conditions. Weather in the UK can be so unexpected so it’s always good to be prepared for whatever the weather is. Weather conditions do such as Rain and Snow will most likely affect the vehicle’s handling.and the stopping distance, you will need to drive slow and allow enough time. Other weather conditions, such as high wind, fog, bright sun will require you to more alert (not that you shouldn’t be already). It’ll still affect your stopping distance and you will need to allow more time when driving. Practising various weather conditions will help you improve on your vehicle’s handling and you’ll be able to understand how to approach other road users and what you need to be aware of on the road.

You should practice driving at different times of the day. Driving during the day can be easy for some and driving at night can be more difficult for others. At night, you will need to be more alert for pedestrians, other road users who may not be visible especially cyclists and motorcycles.

Test centre choice

There is over 300 test centres in the UK. Firstly you’ll need to decide which test centre you’ll like to do your driving test. Most learners tend to go to a test centre which is local to them and others may choose a test centre, their instructor knows better. It is best to choose a test centre, you feel most comfortable at. It’s always helpful if you know the area as you will know what to expect. Many hours of practice in the test centre area will also help boost your confidence.

Take a Mock Test

Mock tests is a practice driving test. To get the most from a mock test it should be carried out with a driving instructor. Don’t forget, instructors know what the examiners are looking and they also understand the test report chart, so they know exactly what the examiner is looking for. The mock test can also help by letting you know the way you’re making mistakes, the way you may not realise. The more mock test you do, the more you can improve and the better you’ll be.

Good Sleep and Hydrated

Try to get a good sleep at least a couple of days before your driving test. Stay hydrated and try to eat healthy if you can. All these small factors play a major part in how your body feels on the day of the driving test. On the driving test, you don’t want to be tired and down even ill, from lack of sleep or unhealthy food. It’ll add a negative attitude and you won’t be as positive and confident for the driving test.

Shhh.. Don’t tell anyone

Telling people can add pressure on passing the driving test. It always best to keep the driving test a secret and once you’ve passed, because obviously, you will, after all, our useful tips. Have a big celebration.