Getting ready for your driver’s license test is super exciting, but it can also be a little nerve-wracking. You’ve done your driving lessons, practiced all the tricky parts, and now it’s time to show off your skills. But did you know that many students make avoidable mistakes during the test? These mistakes can cost you a pass! So, let’s talk about some of the most common mistakes students make when going for their driver’s license—and how you can avoid them.
1. Parking Problems
Parking is something many students find tricky, especially during the test. Whether it’s parallel parking, reverse parking, or parking in a bay, small mistakes here can lead to big trouble. Here’s what can go wrong:
- Not using mirrors: Forgetting to check your mirrors when parking is a big mistake. The examiner wants to see that you’re aware of your surroundings.
- Not straightening the car: Leaving the car crooked in the parking space is a no-no.
- Touching the curb: Even a light bump into the curb can cause you to fail your test.
Tip: Practice parking as much as possible, and always remember to use your mirrors and keep your car straight!
2. Uphill Stop and Start Mistakes
The uphill stop and start is another part that can trip up students. This is when you stop on a hill and have to start driving again without rolling backward. Some common mistakes include:
- Rolling back: Even if your car rolls back just a little, it’s marked as a mistake.
- Not using the handbrake: The handbrake helps keep your car steady when you’re on a hill, so don’t forget to use it!
Tip: Practice stopping and starting on hills with your driving instructor so you feel confident on test day.
3. Forgetting to Signal
Signaling is one of the most basic and important things you need to do while driving. It lets other drivers know what you’re about to do, like turning or changing lanes. But many students forget to signal during their test, which can confuse other drivers and lead to lost points.
- Not signaling when turning: You need to signal every time you turn, even if no other cars are around.
- Signaling too late: If you signal just before you turn, it’s too late to warn others. You need to give plenty of notice.
Tip: Make signaling a habit during your driving lessons so that you won’t forget it during your test!
4. Speeding or Driving Too Slowly
During your test, it’s important to drive at the correct speed. Driving too fast can be dangerous, but driving too slowly can also be a problem. Here’s what can go wrong:
- Speeding: Driving faster than the speed limit is a common mistake when students are nervous or trying to finish the test quickly.
- Driving too slowly: Driving well below the speed limit makes it look like you’re not confident in your driving skills, and it can annoy other drivers.
Tip: Always keep an eye on the speed limit signs, and practice driving at a steady, safe speed during your lessons.
5. Not Following Rules After Returning from the Test Route
One of the biggest mistakes students make is thinking the test is over when they return to the driving school. They start to relax and stop paying attention to the rules. But guess what? The test isn’t over until you’ve parked the car, turned off the engine, and handed over the key.
- Breaking rules on the way back: Students often stop signaling, forget to check their mirrors, or make small errors because they think it doesn’t matter anymore.
- Not fully stopping at signs: You still need to follow every single road rule until the very end of the test.
Tip: Stay focused until you’ve parked the car and turned off the engine. The test isn’t over until the key is out of the ignition!
6. Poor Observation
Examiners are always watching to see how well you observe the road and other drivers. If you don’t look around enough, it can be a big problem.
- Not checking mirrors: You should check your mirrors regularly, especially before turning or changing lanes.
- Not looking over your shoulder: This is important when checking your blind spot. Just using your mirrors isn’t enough.
Tip: Practice checking your mirrors and blind spots during your driving lessons so it becomes second nature during the test.
7. Stopping Over the Line at Stop Signs
At stop signs, you need to come to a complete stop before the line. But many students make the mistake of stopping too late or not fully stopping.
- Stopping too late: If your front wheels go over the stop line, you’ve made a mistake.
- Not fully stopping: Some students do what’s called a “rolling stop,” where they slow down but don’t come to a complete stop. This will count against you in your test.
Tip: Always come to a full stop at stop signs, even if you think no one’s around. Practice this during your lessons until it becomes automatic.
8. Getting Too Nervous
It’s normal to feel nervous before your driving test, but being too nervous can lead to mistakes. Some students get so worked up that they overthink things and end up making errors they wouldn’t normally make.
- Overthinking decisions: You might start second-guessing yourself, which can lead to hesitation or confusion on the road.
- Rushing: Sometimes students rush through maneuvers because they want to get the test over with as quickly as possible. This can lead to mistakes like not signaling or failing to check your mirrors.
Tip: Take deep breaths and stay calm. Focus on driving like you’ve practiced during your lessons, and don’t rush through anything.
9. Not Keeping Both Hands on the Wheel
During your test, it’s important to keep both hands on the steering wheel at all times. Some students get too relaxed and drive with one hand, which can make it look like they’re not in full control of the car.
- Letting go of the wheel too soon: When turning or changing lanes, make sure you’re still holding the wheel with both hands until you’ve finished the maneuver.
- Resting one hand on your lap: This is a common habit that can cost you points.
Tip: Keep both hands on the wheel throughout the entire test, and only let go when it’s safe to do so (like when changing gears in a manual car).
Final Thoughts
Taking your driving test can feel like a big deal, but if you avoid these common mistakes, you’ll have a much better chance of passing. Remember to practice tricky things like parking, uphill starts, and signaling during your lessons so that you feel confident on test day. And most importantly, stay calm and focused during the entire test—don’t let nerves get the best of you!
If you’re still feeling unsure, why not book a few more lessons with iDriving School? Our experienced instructors can help you practice the tricky parts until you’re totally confident and ready to pass your test with flying colors!
