Remove Your Driving Test-Related Anxiety
If you're about to take your driving test and are feeling a little anxious, you've come to the right place! We’re all given the chance to do this once (or twice, three times) in our lives and while it can be scary, it doesn’t have to be. With these tips, we'll show you how to remove your driving test-related anxiety.
Here are some pointers about what to expect:
It will be in a car, not a van/truck/motorbike. You’re not driving on the highway or any other major road (though you may practice parallel parking on a side street). If you’re taking the test in America, it will be in an automatic, not a manual. If you’ve already taken your driving test and are nervous about getting your license, read this article about new driver anxiety .
If you’ve never been in a car before, don’t worry – the examiner will be there to guide you through every step. There’s only one rule – keep both hands on the wheel at all times.
Each part of your exam will give you a chance to practice until you get it right and prove that you are a safe driver! An important part of this is not being nervous – we know what gets us nervous and how to prevent it.
First, an examiner will sit with you in the car and have a short conversation. They will ask you easy questions (where are you from, what’s your name, etc.) to get to know you and see how comfortable you are speaking with them. Don’t worry if you feel a little nervous – just answer the questions as best as possible and they will be done in no time!
The next part is called the “Drive and Observe” section. During this part of your test, you will get a chance to practice driving in different environments. You may be given instructions about what you should do (like waiting for bikers to pass you, slowing down in busy areas, etc.) and then go off on your own. You may even be asked to drive with an instructor who is watching you closely.
You will be asked questions during the test and the examiner will give you some hints on what exactly they want from you. When you show that you can do it, they will tell you to continue. If you get it wrong, they will repeat the question and make sure that you understand what they want from you.
This second part of the exam is called “The Independent Drive.” It will be a longer drive (usually about 15 minutes or so). During this time, the examiner will watch from outside the car and ask questions about road signs and other things to keep you focused on driving safely. They’ll also give you hints if you need it to help you practice.
The examiner will be at the car door and will give you some very clear instructions on how to exit the car at the end of the test. They’ll show that they trust you by letting you go first.
This is a time for the examiner to watch your driving for 15 minutes straight without giving any instructions or coming into the car. If you make any mistakes, they will let you know. Don’t worry about the questions that you missed – after a few trips around the block, you will be able to answer them all without any problem!
This is a very exciting part of your driving test. You’ll need to do your best to keep your eyes on the road and concentrate on what you’re doing. If there are any glances or distractions, tell the examiner and they will let you know and change it up for you if necessary.
Your examiner will tell you to park your car in the parking space provided by the test center. They will be at the car door and give you some very clear instructions on how to exit the car at the end of the test. They’ll show that they trust you by letting you go first.
Make sure that your feet are both firmly on the pedals, with your knees bent and hands at 9 and 3 o’clock. Your arms should be straight without any tension or locked elbows. Your shoulders should be down, with your hands on the wheel without crossing. Your eyes should be straight ahead and focused on the road. Your mouth should be closed and your head should not move.
Now for the big moment of truth! You will be asked to make a left turn, then a right, and then you should stop. There won’t be an examiner behind you, so turn off your headlights and brake gently. You should approach the road with caution – don’t go too fast or too slow!
When they tell you to begin driving, reach forward and put the car in gear.
Conclusion
Luckily, you don’t need to know how to drive when you go for your driving test. However, it is important that you’re confident and not anxious about this big day. You will be all set!
Just remember that the examiner wants to see you driving with confidence. They are there to help you practice – so don’t be afraid to ask for help if you need it.