Top Tips On How To Stay Calm Before Your Driving Test
We know that there are few more anxiety-inducing scenarios than a driving test. Believe us, we have been there before! As the leading provider of driving lessons Colchester has to offer, we’re ideally placed to help you banish the nerves before your driving test. Here are our top tips for success, from what to cover in your driving lessons to what to do to cope during the test itself.
Use Your Driving Lessons Wisely
It is really important to discuss any areas of concern with your instructor with plenty of time to spare before your test. Once you have your driving test booked, talk to your instructor about the things that you would like to work on before the big day. You may want to really concentrate on your manoeuvres, or spend more time on country lanes. Whatever it is you feel like you could improve, be sure to focus on that so you feel confident by the time your test rolls around.
Brush Up On Your Theory
While your theory test will be done and dusted by the time you book your practical test, you should not ditch all of your revision materials. Be sure to brush up on the Highway Code before your driving test, and continue to hone the powers of observation you developed for your hazard perception test. It’s not about overloading your brain with information, but rather building on the skills that you already have to be as prepared as you can before your practical test.
Treat It Like a Mock Test
Some people say that treating their driving test like another mock test is an effective way of overcoming any lingering nerves. We know that it is easier said than done to do this, especially when you’re leaving the test centre with a very different person in the passenger seat to who you are used to. However, just try to visualise what you and your driving instructor covered during one of your mock tests, and tell yourself that your real test is still just around the corner.
Don’t Tell Everyone
Nothing can make you feel more uptight than pressure, so be sure to keep your test a secret to keep that to a minimum. While it is really nice to have your friends and family encouraging you in the days and hours leading up to your driving test, their good wishes can feel a lot like expectations on the big day. As a result, you may worry about letting them down so much it impacts on your performance behind the wheel. So keep it to yourself, and only tell who you have to.
Don’t Skip Meals
On the day of your driving test, you may not feel as if you can stomach much to eat. However, food is fuel for your brain – and you do not want your brain failing you right in the middle of your driving test! Eat lightly throughout the day so you do not feel sluggish during your test, and make sure you are adequately hydrated too. Many people worry about drinking water before their test, but as long as you do not drink too much in one go and you pop to the bathroom beforehand, you will be fine.
Pick The Right Time
Try to schedule your test for a time where you do not have too much else going on in your life. If you’re trying to pass your driving test at the same time as say, doing your exams or moving house, you’re only going to be adding more stress to the mix. So be sure to do plenty of planning, and make sure that your diary is relatively clear in the days surrounding your test. Then you’ll be able to approach it as calmly as possible.
Remember You Can Try Again
Last but not least, remember that you can always take your test again! While everyone does want to pass their driving test first time, it is by no means the be all and end all. Whether it takes you one time to pass your test or ten, it is no reflection on how competent you are as a driver. Some people thrive under pressure, while others take a little longer to learn how to perform under test conditions. Just do not give up, and you’ll find success when it’s the right time for you.
Your Instructor is There to Help
Hopefully you’ve found some tips that are helpful for you. Remember, your driving instructor is there to offer you the support you need in the build up to your test, and will answer any questions that you may have. So if there’s something that you really want to know before your test, don’t be afraid to ask! There’s no such thing as a silly question, and your experienced driving instructor has a wealth of advice and knowledge they’d be delighted to share with you.
How will my instructor help me to prepare for my test?
As the date of your test draws nearer, your driving instructor will plan a mock test for you to carry out. All of the instructors here at Nayland Driving School have plenty of experience in delivering the most comprehensive driving lessons Colchester has to offer. A mock driving test will get you used to driving under test conditions, and will give you a better idea of what to expect on the day itself.
What are my chances of passing first time?
This has to be one of the most frequently asked questions we get. It’s really important not to put too much pressure on yourself to pass your test first time, as this can make your anxiety going into your test worse. However, we do have a really good record of helping people to pass their tests first time – and that’s down to the hard work and dedication of our instructors.
How many driving lessons will I need before my test?
Again, this is something that we get asked a lot! This really does vary from learner to learner, and your instructor will let you know when they think you are ready to take your test. If you want any more information before you book a driving lesson, please get in touch.
