Top tips for passing your driving test

Getting your license and learning how to drive is an important milestone in every young person’s life. Not only does your license mean you can drive confidently and safely on your own, but also means solo-Macca’s runs and blasting music loudly while driving (bliss).

So for anyone about to hit the streets for their final driving test to get their P-plates, here are some useful tips to keep in mind to give you a greater chance of passing with ease.

Never underestimate the power of a good sneaker. When I was learning how to drive, I drove in the same pair of shoes every time I got behind the wheel - a comfy but classic pair of Nike Cortez.

It’s important to remember that the thicker the sole or heel, the more pressure you need to apply on the brake or accelerator. Additionally, bulky, or heeled shoes are also difficult to drive in, so opt for a comfortable running sneaker, or flat shoe that’s easy to put on and drive in.

A clean car means a clear mind. Whether you’re practising with an instructor, guardian or sibling, a clean car ensures that you’re focused on the road, and everyone is comfortable.

Remove any rubbish before jumping behind the wheel or follow these easy tips for cleaning your car. A good deep clean before your driving test is also a must!

It’s very easy to get carried away in a car and make mistakes (which is totally normal). Even if you’re the most talented driver, take a moment to centre yourself before starting the vehicle.

This is useful if you are about to start a driving lesson or your final driving test. A driving test is naturally a nerve-racking experience, so try your best to remain calm throughout the process.

If you have a pre-driving ritual that helps you stay calm, do it before you start your test. At the end of the day, the assessor is just another passenger!

Smooth out any rough edges in your driving skills with one final driving lesson. I scheduled a driving lesson a few days before my driving test and asked my instructor to treat the lesson like a driving test.

Not only was I able to receive constructive feedback and great test tips, but I also got a glimpse into what the driving test would be like (without any of the pressure). If you can’t schedule lessons with an instructor, ask a fully licensed sibling, friend, or guardian to treat your lesson like it’s a driving test.

For the one hour of your driving test, the car is yours, so make it your own. Before you hop out of the car to meet your assessor, take a moment to tailor the car to your needs.

Readjust your mirrors, headrest and steering wheel and make sure you have your mobile phone put away. It only takes a minute but ensures that you aren’t making major adjustments with the assessor in the vehicle and leaves you with more time to check your mirrors and get driving!

If you make a mistake, own it! Everybody makes mistakes, even in the most serious situations like a driving test.

If the mistake occurs while you’re driving remain calm and finish the test, and if it happens right at the beginning, then continue to drive with confidence. Learning how to drive isn’t a birth-given skill. It takes practice, lots of mistakes and a strong drive (pun intended) to learn.

Related: Our top tips for parents of learner drivers

Related: Why I decided to get my driver’s licence in my 30s

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