10 Mistakes That Can Prevent You From Passing Your Driving Test

Your behind-the-wheel driving test can be a stressful moment! Preparation is key to building confidence and skill when attempting your road test. In another post, Coastline Academy shared some tips to help you pass your road test on the first attempt. In this article, we'll share ten common mistakes to avoid during your behind-the-wheel test, and what you can do to fix them so you can avoid a retake!

1. Unprepared Vehicle

Make sure that the vehicle you bring to your driving test will pass any pre-drive checklist the DMV or other state agency will put it through. This includes making certain your windshield is clean, clear, and absent any cracks. You'll also went to check that tire tread and make sure your seat belts are functional. Even a broken mirror or turn signal not working may cause you to fail the test before it even truly begins.

2. Driving Too Fast or Too Slow

While you are taking your driving test, it is important to be confident. If you drive too slow, you may be showing the test administrator you are being too cautious, which can cause unsafe conditions for yourself and other drivers. (Remember, predictability is key when it comes to safe driving!) On the other hand, driving too fast can also create unsafe conditions. Stay focused on the speed limit and be on the lookout signage indicating changes in the speed limit near school or work zones.

3. Following Too Closely

Always keep a safe distance between your vehicle and the vehicle in front of you. This is usually 3-4 seconds on commercial roads. Remember, proper following distance allows you room to maneuver in case the driver ahead of you brakes or swerves quickly.

4. Rolling Stops

You never want to make an incomplete stop during your behind-the-wheel driving test. (Or outside of the test, either!) This is one of the most common mistakes that students make, as they will slow down at a stop sign, but will not actually come to a complete stop. Make sure you come to a full stop behind the limit line.

5. Distracted Driving

This may seem obvious, but it bears reminding. Make sure you turn your cellphone off and put it away before you get into the car. Your radio should also be off before and during your drive test. The middle of your road test is not the time to change any temperature settings, other than using the defroster, if needed. You want to show that you are focused on the road and driving task during your behind-the-wheel test.

6. Braking Too Hard

Be sure you are familiar with how hard or soft the brakes are in the car you are using for your driving test. In an emergency situation, braking hard is acceptable. However, in most normal stopping situations, you will need to slow down and brake at a comfortable level. If you slam on the brakes, everyone in the car is thrown forward, including your examiner!

7. Not Checking Mirrors

During your driving test, you are going to want to check your mirrors regularly, just as you would while driving in standard situations. Sometimes students forget to do this during the test, so always check the rear-view and side mirrors and make sure you are aware of the vehicles around you at all times, even if you aren't changing lanes. Remember, every time you use your turn signal, you'll need to SMOG!

8. Four-Way Stops Confusion

There is often confusion when it comes to four-way stops and who has the right of way. Make sure you are following the rules we laid out in this article. Remember to signal your intentions if you are turning and if you arrive at the stop sign at the same time as another vehicle, the vehicle on the right goes first.

9. Lack of Steering Control

Be confident during your driving test, but don't overdo it and start driving one-handed. Make sure you are keeping both hands on the wheel at 9 and 3 and know when the use the push-pull and hand-over-hand methods when turning!

10. Changing Lanes in an Intersection

If you are going through an intersection, do not change lanes. You must wait until you are safely past the intersection before you can make the lane change. If the examiner asks you to make a lane change near an intersection, be certain you make your maneuver before or after the intersection. Never make a lane change in an intersection.

Want to brush up before your behind-the-wheel test? Book a lesson and we'll help you get ready so you can arrive at the DMV with confidence.