Not everyone is a good test taker. And that’s OK. You can still pass that driving exam easy-peasy by studying up on the 10 Most Common Driving Test Fails:
#1: Driving too slowly
That’s right. Everyone knows that they shouldn’t speed, but few consider the dangers of driving too slowly. That’s why so many teen drivers overcompensate and drive too slowly during their driving test. Their attempt to drive extra-safe is in fact a dangerous tactic that causes traffic congestion, accidents, and is even illegal in certain circumstances.
#2 Driving too fast
Obviously, driving over the speed limit is bad. Most people know this. However, many teens fail to stay under the limit because they miss changes in speed limit signs, school zone signs and work zone signs.
#3 Braking too hard
There’s no need to slam on the brakes if you are driving safely. Press the brakes softly and slowly, as if the pedal is an egg, and your oh-so-smooth driving skills are sure to impress the instructor.
#4 Tailgating
Never, ever tailgate… especially during a driving test. It’s important to maintain a safe following distance to improve visibility and allow enough time to stop or slow down to avoid an emergency situation.
#5 Improper lane change
When changing lanes, make sure that you check your mirrors and blind spots, use your blinkers, and allow plenty of room for other traffic. Do not cut anyone off. Do not tailgate the driver in the lane that you are entering. And, remember, it is illegal to change lanes in an intersection, or anywhere with a solid (vs dotted) line!
#6 Highway merging
Make sure that you practice this skill on highways and interstates near your driving test location. Become familiar with the local highways, the traffic, and the driving behaviors of those around the area. Know when to yield and when you have the right-of-way, and always drive defensively.
#7 Parallel parking
Ah, the dreaded parallel parking. It can be a difficult skill to master, but you can do it with enough practice and perseverance. Still, it can be a nerve-racking part of the driving exam. Just take your time and make sure that you don’t hit the other cars or the curb, and you should be fine.
#8 Four-Way Stops
Study up on the laws when it comes to 4-way stops. It’s simple, really: wait your turn and always use your blinkers.
#9 Overconfidence
Don’t get too cocky. Use both of your hands for steering, keep your eyes on the road, don’t talk so much that it becomes distracting… in fact, don’t let any sort of distraction take your attention away from the task at hand. It’s good to be confident, just not so confident that it causes you to lose those safe driving habits.
#10 The Classic Car Fail
If driving your own vehicle, then make sure your car is safe and in good condition. Check the headlights, tail lights, brake lights, turn signals, windshield wipers and seat belts to ensure that everything is working properly.
Take these tips to heart and practice them often, and you’ll be able to ace that exam in no time!