Just about everyone is nervous when their driving test rolls around. You’ve studied and practiced by taking your driver's ed course, so we have faith in you. To prepare you for the big day, we’ve compiled the 14 most common mistakes people make on the driving test. Brush up, and don’t let this be you!
1. Letting Your Nerves Take the Wheel
You know that Snicker’s commercial, “You’re not you when you’re hungry?” The same goes for stress and nerves. You’ve practiced. You know the material by heart. You’ve put in the driving hours.
So breathe. You’ve got this.
2. Not Checking Your Mirrors Regularly
It can be hard to take your eyes away from the road, but your side- and rear-view mirrors help you be a safer driver. Constantly check your mirrors to know when a vehicle enters one of your blind spots.
3. Forgetting Your Turn Signals
Turn signals are a basic of driving, and therefore a huge part of your exam. Signal early and give other drivers ample time to anticipate and react to your upcoming maneuvers. Using turn signals has shown a 40% reduction in the chance of a collision.
4. Making Rolling Stops
Stop means stop. So, always come to a complete stop behind the demarcation line at stop signs and red lights. Also, remember to come to a complete stop when making a right-hand turn at an intersection. To be safe, count to three before moving from a stopped position.
5. Not Yielding To Pedestrians
Pedestrians always have the right of way. Pay attention to crosswalks and anticipate pedestrians, especially when you’re turning. Never stop in a crosswalk, either. Stop before it, then safely move up into the intersection. Pedestrians have a right to share the road with you, so keep them safe.
6. Confusion at Four-way Stops
It can be easy to jump forward or hesitate when it’s your turn. Remember: The driver who arrives at the intersection first has the right of way. If you get there at the same time as another driver, whoever is to the right goes first. Make sure you understand who has the right of way in different scenarios.
7. Changing Lanes in an Intersection
Nearly one-quarter of all traffic fatalities in a given year occur in an intersection. While performing a lane change is legal in some states, it isn't worth attempting. Avoid lane changes while in an intersection and avoid a deadly collision.
8. Improper Lane Changing
When your instructor asks you to change lanes, remember:
Look at your destination lane.
Turn on your turn signal.
Check your mirrors (rear and sides).
Change lanes if everything is clear.
Always change lanes safely and know who has the right of way.
9. Driving Too Slowly
Sometimes, you can be so busy worrying about speeding that you go too slow. Your instructor can fail you for driving too far below the speed limit. It shows a lack of confidence in your driving ability.
10. Braking Too Hard
You should only hard brake in an emergency situation. Otherwise, your braking should be gradual and comfortable. Be aware of how much time you need to come to a stop, and brake accordingly. Don't underestimate stopping distance and cause a collision.
11. Following Too Closely
Tailgating is a sign of aggressive driving. It is also highly unsafe, and your examiner will dock you points for it. Follow at least three to five seconds behind someone on the highway, and increase this based on road conditions. This will give you plenty of time to react to a sudden stop.
12. Not Being Aware of Changes to the Speed Limit
Make sure you always know the speed wherever you are. Pay extra attention to the following zones where speed limits can change drastically:
Residential streets
Freeways
Construction zones
Shrugging and saying you didn't know what the speed limit was won't cut it on the road test.
13. Not Keeping Both Hands on the Wheel
It doesn’t matter if you can drive with just the tip of your knee; always keep both hands on the wheel during your driving inspection test. Always keep your hands at the 3 and 9 o'clock positions so you're ready in case a quick maneuver is necessary.
14. Bringing a Faulty Vehicle to the Road Test
Don’t let your vehicle be the reason you fail. Make sure your car complies with all safety laws, including a clear, unbroken windshield, working seat belts, signals, and lights. You want everything in proper working condition to keep you safe on the road.
Pass Your Driving Test with Ease by Avoiding These Mistakes
These mistakes are easy to avoid and shouldn't be the reason you fail your driving test. If you need a boost of confidence before you take your exam, check out a driver's ed course at Aceable.com. Our bite-sized lessons will get you ready for your driving exam in no time.
Updated 8/5/24