Remember Your Pre-Drive Ritual
From the second you sit in the driver’s seat, there are several things you must do before putting the car in gear. Always remember to put your seatbelt on, adjust your mirrors (side and rear-view), turn on your headlights if they aren’t automatic, and test your high beams. Make sure this becomes a permanent habit, and you’ll guarantee a checkmark on your driving test.
Don’t Go Above or Below 5 MPH of the Speed Limit
Some driving exams stick to only local roads, while others could have you taking highways. Regardless of which roads you drive on, your examiner will be watching closely to see how well you control the speed of the car you’re driving. While keeping the dial exactly on 50 mph isn’t always easy, you usually have 5 mph of leeway in either direction. This makes it easier for you to monitor your speed and make adjustments when necessary.
Get Plenty of Practice
You can read about driving and road rules all you want. But unless you get behind the wheel of a vehicle and put that theory into practice, you’ll never build the confidence necessary to drive safely. Join a driving school program that offers both in-class and practical teaching. You’ll be able to drive alongside a qualified instructor, who will guide you and point out any mistakes. These schools are invaluable tools for anyone looking to get their driver’s license.
Always Scan Your Mirrors
While it’s always essential to keep your eyes on the road, being aware of your surroundings is also important. Your examiner will be taking notes to see if you’re checking your mirrors while driving. This only takes a split second, and at no point should your gaze wander from in front of you for an extended period. Checking your mirrors is crucial to staying safe on the road and passing your driving exam.
Easy on the Brakes
When bringing the vehicle to a complete stop, be sure to gauge your distance from the stopping point and ease the car to a halt. Slamming on the brakes at the last minute not only creates an unpleasant ride for everyone inside your vehicle, but it also causes more wear and tear on your brake pads and could cause an accident. In the case of your driving exam, it would likely result in a fail.
Cooler Heads Prevail
Getting your license is a big deal, and it’s normal to feel nervous. But letting your nerves get the best of you can cause you to freeze up and make costly mistakes. Remind yourself that you’ve done everything possible to prepare yourself for this day. If your nerves get the best of you and you fail the driving test, you can always reschedule another driving exam and learn from your mistakes.
If you’re a new driver, it’s a good time to learn how to take care of your vehicle correctly. At DARCARS 355 Toyota of Rockville, we recommend learning about these top 8 maintenance tips to give you even more confidence and peace of mind behind the wheel here in Rockville, MD.
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