Am I ready to take my driving test?

With their Ready to pass? campaign, the DVSA are urging learner drivers to rethink if they are ready for their test, or if they need a little more practice. By being able to rearrange their test free of charge up to 3 working days before the test date, slots can open up to learners who are ready, and those who delay are given a chance to prevent paying to re-test.

The latest statistics from the DVSA show that the driving test pass rate is just 47.9% - meaning around half of learner drivers needed more practice in order to pass! Ours and the DVSA’s guidance touches on some ways to check if you’re ready, and some ways to get in some extra practice! 

You’ve been given the go ahead

One of the best ways to know when you’re ready to take your test is if your instructor approves. Of course, there are times when you may feel ready, but your instructor hasn’t given you the go ahead – that’s ok too! Speak to your instructor and explain how you’re feeling, they’ll then be able to pinpoint areas you can work on.

Mock tests are a big help!

Want a great way to know if you’re ready to take your driving test? Well – take (a mock) one! You may feel confident behind the wheel, but how does that work when you’re in test conditions? Mock tests are a great opportunity to familiarise yourself with the format of the driving test as well as seeing how you drive when you’re under extra pressure. And you can take one in your driving lessons – just ask your instructor!

Practice in real life driving situations

You may be a pro heading to and from the same place, but what about driving in unknown surroundings? Private practice with an experienced driver is a great way to get some productive lessons on the side. In fact, DVSA data shows that learner drivers are 1.5 times more likely to pass their test if they combine professional lessons with private practice.

Research from the Ready to pass? campaign states that 71% of parents of learner drivers say more information is needed on the knowledge, skills, and practice needed to be a good driver. In light of this data, the DVSA has published a new Supervising Learner Drivers guide, helping parents make the most of private practice!

Don’t fear failure

One thing that can change the outcome of a driving test for learners is that they’re so worried about failing the test, they often make mistakes that they wouldn’t usually make. It’s all about being confident within yourself and your driving ability and trying not to let the nerves get the better of you! 
If you feel like you need some extra time to practice, the DVSA recommends that learners reschedule their test if they feel unprepared. Save some cash by not paying to re-test, and your slot is given to someone who is ready, win-win!

Your instructor eases off

We asked a few driving instructors how they can tell if a learner is ready to take their test! Check out what they said:

“When you’re driving quite happily and your driving instructor is sitting at your side, watching you, without saying a word! When you can safely make your own decisions and know they are correct. When you can follow road signs and a satnav with ease ” – Pennie Sue Alexander

“When at the end of a drive, there is little to discuss, and then for the next few drives when they (the pupil) consistently and calmly make safe judgments and decisions!” – Kate Newton

“When they can drive a car for at least 50 minutes with no help, guidance or assistance” – Anthony Hendron