As a seasoned veteran Driver Tester with over three decades of experience at the Road Safety Authority in Ireland, and current driving school instructor in Kilcock and Kildare (Driving School Kilcock), I’ve witnessed an astounding array of driving test performances, both awe-inspiring and cringe-worthy. Over the years, I’ve had the privilege of sitting beside nervous learners and seasoned drivers alike, assessing their skills, judgment, and overall roadworthiness. Now, I aim to share my wealth of knowledge with aspiring drivers embarking on this crucial journey. In this article, we’ll explore some of the essential do’s and don’ts to help you conquer the day of your driving test with confidence and ensure you’re well on your way to becoming a responsible and safe driver.
- Do Arrive earlier than your appointed time
Arriving earlier than your appointed time not only shows respect for the process but also demonstrates your eagerness and preparedness for the driving test. This proactive approach may lead your tester to accommodate you ahead of schedule, leaving a positive and lasting impression that could work in your favor during the evaluation.
- Do bring your learners permit!
Bringing your learner’s permit is an absolute must for your driving test. Without it, you won’t be allowed to proceed with the evaluation, and all your preparation efforts will go to waste. So, double-check your essentials before heading to the test center to avoid any unnecessary disappointments.
- Do check your lights and documentation
Before heading to the driving test, thoroughly check your vehicle’s lights, including brake lights and indicators, to ensure they are in proper working order. Additionally, don’t forget to verify that your tax, insurance and NCT are up-to-date, and correctly display L-plates if you are a learner driver.
- Do practice engine checks
Pop the bonnet or hood of your car and get familiar with the engine. You will be asked during your driving test to demonstrate basic car maintenance knowledge. Practicing will help you with boosting your confidence for the test.
- Do reverse into a parking space before your test.
Wherever possible, opt to reverse into a parking space before your driving test begins. This will ensure that your take off and commencement of the test starts on a good note, and avoids risk of negative marking in the event of an improper reverse.
- Do read the rules of the road and learn the signs!
Before the driving test, make sure to read and understand the rules of the road, including road signs and related questions. It may have been some time since you’ve completed your theory test so be sure to brush up on the basics. You’ll need a solid grasp of traffic regulations and will be quizzed on road signs. Find out more here.
- Do a practice run or a pre-test
I specialise in pre-test lessons across a variety of different RSA test centres in the country, and can help you get comfortable and confident driving on these test routes. If you want to book a pre-test, please get in touch!
Now that we’ve covered the essential do’s to ensure a successful driving test, let’s shift our focus to the don’ts that you should avoid at all costs. Steering clear of these common pitfalls will keep you on the right track toward a positive driving test experience.
- Don’t obstruct the test routes
You won’t be the only one doing your driving test that day or even at that time. Make sure to be respectful to all road users and considerate to other drivers that may be doing their test on a route you’re practicing on.
- Don’t arrive or leave the test centre without an accompanying driver
It is illegal to drive as a learner driver without an experienced driver accompanying you. Even if you pass your test, you’re still a learner driver until you receive your full license.
- Don’t put your L plates on before the test
As a learner driver, you’re required by law to display your learner plates on your car. If you show up to the test centre and only put your L-plates on there, the driver tester will know that you haven’t been been following road traffic laws and may take a negative view on this.
- Don’t smoke in your car
Avoid smoking in your car during or before the driving test. The driver testers don’t want to sit in your smelly smoked car, be respectful and make the experience as comfortable for them as possible so they can focus on your driving abilities. Remember – for the duration of your test, your car becomes the driver tester’s workplace.
As you embark on your journey to becoming a confident and skilled driver, remember that success on the day of your driving test is within your reach. By following advice from a seasoned Driver Tester like myself, you can increase your chances of acing the test and earning your full driving license. If you feel the need for a pre-test lesson to fine-tune your skills and build your confidence, don’t hesitate to get in touch and book a session with us. We also offer Essential Driver Training (EDT) and standard driving lessons tailored to meet your individual needs, ensuring you’re fully equipped for a safe and fulfilling driving experience. So, gear up, be prepared, and embrace the road ahead with the assurance that your driving future is in capable hands. Safe driving!
Ray Fitzgerald
Moto Ray Driving School
0879884104
