Practical driving tests are in high demand after the lockdown period and with a long wait it is important to make sure you are ready.

Reflect and analyse.

As always with the learning to drive process and once fully qualified, analytical skills are really important to allow you to continue to improve as a driver. Honesty and analysis when preparing for your test can really make the difference between going for a test too soon and passing at the first attempt.

Here we list 5 things to ask yourself when preparing to book or take your practical driving test;

1. Can you drive independently without instruction?

Once you have passed your driving test you will no longer need to be accompanied in the car. To prepare you for this, the examiners will offer very little instruction and see how you drive. You should be driving independently for a period of time before taking your test to ensure you have the necessary skills.

 

2. Are you confident with driving?

This question can be harder to answer. Everyone gets a little nervous or indeed very nervous when they are being tested on something so it is important to put that to one side for the moment. Are you confident that you have the driving ability on the day to pass the test? If you reflect and are able to analyse a particular area of driving you are less confident with then you should spend a little more time practicing this.

 

3. Mock test.

Have you taken and passed a mock test with your instructor? If you have taken one and failed, have you identified the area of driving you need to improve on? Replicating the practical test can be really difficult but can still give you a good idea of what it takes on the day.

 

4. Dealing with mistakes.

There is no such thing as a perfect driver however drivers with experience are able to cover their mistakes without them becoming dangerous. If a situation on the road doesn’t go your way, can you safely deal with the situation and move on? Remaining calm and not dwelling on mistakes may mean you overcome the situation but it is extremely important that you reflect and analyse what happened to prevent that situation arising again.

 

5. Know the area you will be tested in.

Driving on roads you are familiar with can really settle the nerves and allow you to plan under pressure. There may be areas where local knowledge can mean you plan for the correct lane or position and use this as an advantage. Road markings or signs may be missing and this could be misleading if you are not used to the area you drive in. Of course the test is designed so that you can drive anywhere in the UK but not usually under the pressure of a test.