Tips for your practical driving test
Good preparation goes beyond knowing the routes. These tips help you start your practical test confidently and calmly, from the day before to the last metres behind the wheel.
In short
- Calm and preparation count more than extra kilometres just before your test
- Know the area around your test centre and arrive well in time
- Make your checks visible: mirrors, blind spot, looking around
- One small mistake doesn't mean you fail: stay calm and keep driving
The day(s) before your test
What you do just before your test affects how fresh you are at the start. Keep it simple and calm.
- Drive your last practice route a few days beforehand, not the evening before
- Check your documents and lay everything out
- Go to bed on time and avoid squeezing in 'one more' practice late on
- Know what time to leave and which way to go to the test centre
On the day itself
Arrive well in time, with enough margin for traffic or a search for a parking spot. Anyone who arrives rushed starts the test already stressed.
Take a few minutes to breathe calmly before you set off. Adjust your seat, mirrors and steering wheel and check your seat belt is fastened properly. Do it calmly: a good start shows confidence.
Tip: A short breathing exercise (in for four counts, out for six) helps lower your heart rate before you leave.
During the drive
Examiners don't only assess what you do, but also whether they can see that you notice what's going on. So make your checks deliberate and visible.
- Look in your mirrors and over your shoulder, even for small manoeuvres
- Adapt your speed to the situation: 30 km/h zones, school zones and built-up areas
- Anticipate: look far ahead and watch for cyclists and pedestrians
- Don't drive too hesitantly: choose in time and be clear about what you're doing
During the manoeuvres
For manoeuvres such as reverse parking, take your time and don't rush. A manoeuvre carried out calmly and safely counts for more than a fast one. Do your checks (mirrors, blind spot) deliberately, even if the road looks empty, and talk with your instructor about what's possible after a slip.
Stay calm after a mistake
Everyone makes a mistake now and then. One small slip doesn't automatically mean you fail. What counts is that you calmly keep driving and keep your attention on the next moment instead of dwelling on what just happened.
That's easier said than done. So practise it deliberately: if you make a mistake during a practice drive, just keep driving and only discuss it afterwards.
Frequently asked questions
What's the best tip against test nerves?
Good preparation in the right area, a fixed routine on the day itself and calm breathing. If you know the area, you have less to fear.
Do I have to say out loud what I'm doing?
You don't have to, but your checks must be visible. Deliberately turn your head for mirrors and blind spot, so the examiner can see you do them.
What if I make a mistake during the test?
Stay calm and keep driving. One small mistake doesn't automatically lead to a negative result. It's your driving as a whole that counts.
When should I schedule my last practice drive?
Ideally a few days before the test. That way you stay fresh and confident instead of practising stressed the evening before.
