The Secret To Passing Your Driving Test

If you were to ask me about my proudest achievement, I would say passing my driving test.

While passing your driving test is a rite of passage and considered by so many just one of those things you just have to do, for others the process can be all consuming. This is coming from someone who failed their driving test four times before eventually passing (yes, I’m really outing myself here).

From my first driving instructor reducing me to tears (which I admit doesn’t take much, but that’s beside the point) to Covid-19 bringing a halt to my lessons for a little while, my nearly three-year journey learning to drive certainly had some bumps along the road (excuse the pun).

The fact that I had failed so many times left me feeling a tad bit ashamed when I heard my college and school friends proudly announcing they had passed on their first try. I knew the inevitable next question would be, ‘how many times did you take your test?’ Let’s just say only very few knew the real answer.

I’ve come to realise I was quite lucky in a way as I had family who would sit in a car with me for hours driving from our rural home in South Kerry to more populated roads so that I could get to grips with test routes.

Yes, there were frustrated days when my mum would be clinging (a bit dramatically) to my Fiat 500 when I took that one corner just a little too wide, or the dreaded days when I would leave the test centre bawling after another failed attempt, it was safe to say my parents were nearly as ecstatic as me when I finally passed.

via Pexels

It wasn’t until quite recently that I learned my situation isn’t unique. Yes, maybe a majority of people pass on their first and second try, but there is selection of people like myself who take a little longer to gain that confidence they need to be a good driver.

The anxiety surrounding your driving test is something felt by everyone, but some people are affected more.

So, if you are sick of letting your nerves get in the way of you upgrading from passenger princess to a reverse around the corner pro, here are a few tips that may be helpful.

There is no rush on learning to drive

Driving is a journey and there is no limit to how long it should take one to pass their test. It is important to remember that the 12 essential lessons are only the minimum amount you need to apply for your test, and if you need a lot more than that before you go for your test that is completely okay.

There is nothing worse than applying before you are ready and then failing as it can make you more nervous about future tests. If you don’t feel you are quite ready save your time and money and do a few extra lessons.

Get as much practice as possible

The thing about your nerves around driving is that you can most likely drive well but your nerves are getting in the way. To help conquer this, you should try and drive where possible (with an accompanying driver) at home.

Even short journeys to work and back can be super beneficial in building your confidence.

Do a driving lesson a few hours before your test

Maybe it feels like the last thing you want to do is sit in a car and go through test routes before your test, but it can really put you in a good mindset for your test.

Make sure you have some time to relax and get a tea or coffee before your test so make sure you are energised and ready.

Have a good hearty breakfast

Yes, just like what every teacher and lecturer told you before an exam, a good hearty breakfast will set you on the right path for your driving test as well.

Eating a banana before your test is also a popular habit, bananas contain tryptophan which the body converts to serotonin, essentially putting you in a better mood.

Watch helpful videos

Watch a couple of videos on YouTube which give helpful advice about specific areas of driving and manoeuvres. Dane Tyghe has some great tips for learner drivers before they sit their test.

Believe in yourself

This may sound slightly wishy washy, and yes manifesting isn’t for everyone, but try to imagine yourself passing your test and doing simple things like driving to the shop, work or college.

This could help leave you in positive mindset ahead of your test.