Feeling Nervous About Your Driving Test? Here’s How to Prepare

Taking your driving test for the first time can be intimidating- no matter who you are or how tough you think you are. After all, there are so many things to consider. You’ll most likely worry about whether the Renault you are using for the driving test will be up to par, whether you’ll forget to do simple things, like use your indicator when turning, and whether or not you’ll be so nervous that you’ll fail and have to retake the test.

This is completely understandable, but taking your driving test doesn’t have to be a nerve-wracking experience. There are plenty of steps you can take to not only ensure your car is ready, but you are as well.

Preparation Tips: Calming Your Nerves and Repairing Renault Parts

The first step you need to take when preparing for the driving test is preparing your car. DSA and UK centres don’t provide cars for you, so you’ll need to either hire a car, obtain permission to use a driving instructor’s car, or use your own for the practical driving test. If you decide to use your own, it must comply with certain standards. It must:

• Have a valid tax disc

• Be able to reach 100 kilometres per hour

• Have four wheels (no spare tyres will be allowed to be used)

• Have an MAM (maximum authorised mass) of 3,500kg or less

• Have L-plates on both the front and the rear

• Have an interior rear-view mirror that the driving examiner can see out of during your test

In addition to these qualifications, you should also inspect the Renault’s parts to ensure they work properly. Make sure there are no lights showing on the dashboard, such as the airbag warning light or the check engine light. These could indicate problems with certain car parts and, if seen, will end your exam immediately. Be sure to also check for common issues, like you would if you were going for a MOT exam. This can include car parts like wipers, making sure the fuel cap closes, and changing the engine oil.

Once you’ve taken care of any necessary Renault parts that need to be adjusted, replaced, or repaired, it’s time to move on to you. Here are a few tips that will help you get through this stressful day.

• Don’t go until you’re ready. Some people need more time to practise and learn how to drive than others. Instead of going when you know you’ll fail, spend some extra time behind the wheel. Don’t let your age or peer pressure push you.

• Getting behind the wheel may help you learn how to drive, but understanding the Highway Code will as well. Take the time to study and learn so you can be familiar with the laws of the road when you’re out on it.

• Practise whenever you can. It may not be easy driving in the rain or the snow, but practising in different types of weather conditions can help you become more comfortable with driving. It can also prepare you to deal with anything that happens during your driving test.

• Research the area around the driving centre where you’re planning on taking the test. Drive around, get to know the area, so you’ll be prepared for what’s to come when you actually take the test.

• Don’t feel as if you have to tell everyone that you’re taking the driving test. This may put a lot of pressure on you and keep you from being able to keep your mind on what’s important. Save the celebration for later; right now, just focus on what you’ll do during the exam.

Are you ready to take your driving test? Make sure you prepare yourself and your Renault by using these helpful tips.