Tips for Passing your Driving Test
So, the day is almost here. You’ve passed your theory test done your driving lessons, studied the Rules of the Road and practiced as much as you can. Naturally you are going to be very nervous, you are only human after all but there are things you can do to prepare for your driving test, and we’d like to help you with that. While we cannot take away your nervousness, we feel that if you have prepared properly, you can reduce any anxiety you might feel.
So what advice can we give you? Plenty. Here are RedClick’s top ten tips for passing your driving test in Ireland:
1. Read the Rules of the Road from Cover to Cover
Sometimes this may seem a little bit old-fashioned but your driving test, especially theory test is based upon Rules of the Road guide book from the RSA. You’ll be asked theory questions from this book as a part of your test.
2. Do All Your Driving Lessons
Especially the legally required 12 essential driver training lessons with an EDT approved driving instructor. Take more driving lessons than you think you need, and you will feel your confidence building as you become more comfortable driving under pressure and with an instructor/examiner beside you.
3. Take Pre-Tests
Do at least one pre-test which will give you a very good idea of what to expect in the actual test, which should take some of the fear away. A pre-test will also pick up any bad habits before the real inspector sees them and is a great way to dispel some of the fears you might have about driving in front of a stranger.
4. Don’t Forget Your Documents
Make sure you have all your documents ready, and your car is prepared. All good? Double-check again. You need a valid learner permit and there’s this must be in date and be for the correct category of vehicle for your test. You must also be accompanied by a fully-licensed driver – you cannot drive to the test centre on your own or leave on your own should you fail. Make sure there is a valid original insurance disc on the windscreen that clearly shows the registration number. You also need an original in date motor tax disc and a valid NCT disc if the car requires one. Finally, you must have L plates front and rear and your windscreen must be clear of other distractions and then must be good visibility from inside the car out.
5. Arrive Early at the Test Centre
Be early at the driving test centre so that you are not under any further pressure. This might seem funny but make sure you’re wearing proper shoes you may be failed if you go barefoot or wear flip-flops.
6. Try to Stay Calm and Be Confident
Remember, you have been taught how to drive and have practiced: you’ve got this. Remember and rely upon all your lessons and the time you spent studying the theory and the hours on the road practicing and recall if you can all the bits of advice that you got from people. Then relax. You have trained for this, so rely on that.
7. Be Careful and Observant
As you go around the test route, be ready for any unexpected moves by other drivers – concentrate and be aware of your surroundings, not of the inspector. Be extra careful so you don’t miss a single stop sign, yield sign, red light, etc.
8. Maintain Your Distance
Stay back from other drivers (leave at least 2 seconds of distance between you and the car in front), maintain a good road position and keep up with traffic. You must balance safety with making progress along the route.
9. Watch Your Driving Style
Don’t coast on your clutch, rest your hand on the gear stick or deviate from the 10-to-2 position. These are the sort of bad driving habits an inspector will fail you for.
10. It’s Okay to Make Mistakes
Finally, if you make a mistake, don’t dwell on it, mistakes happen and it’s not the end of the world if you have to re-sit your test. You’ll be more comfortable next time so don’t be hard on yourself: a great many people require more than one test to get their driving license.
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS ABOUT DRIVING LESSONS
Are driving lessons essential in Ireland?
Yes, they are required by law, and you must use an approved instructor and have your lessons logged.
How many driving lessons do I need?
Legally you must take 12 essential driver training lessons with an EDT (Essential Driver Training) approved driving instructor. You should take more than you think you need to help build your confidence and to get rid of any bad habits before the test.
Do driving lessons expire?
No, EDT lessons don’t expire, except when your learner permit has lapsed for more than five years.
How much do driving lessons cost?
It varies from school to school. You can generally get pretty good deals for a package of 12 mandatory lessons, four top-up lessons, pre-tests and for car hire on the day of the actual test. Shop around.
What’s next after passing your driving test?
Call RedClick – we offer competitive car insurance quotes for young drivers in Ireland.