The DVSA recently launched a campaign called ‘Ready to Pass?’ to help educate learner drivers about taking a driving test too soon.
However, many learners are so eager to pass they fail their test because they take it too early.
This not only causes the learner to be upset, but it also means you need to spend more money and delays getting you onto the road.
Every day learner drivers take their driving test whilst being unprepared. In December 2022, 51 out of 100 pupils taking their driving tests in Great Britain failed.
If you are not 100% sure you will pass, then it is best to move your test back. This way, you can not only pass your test with confidence but also save yourself money in the long run.
How to check that you’re test ready
You will know you are prepared to take your test when:
1. You no longer require prompts on your lessons
If you are dealing with issues that are developing in your driving lessons with confidence whilst doing so independently and confidently, you are on track to take your test. If you can adapt to developing situations and drive safely, this is another sign that you are almost ready to take your test.
2. You aren’t making serious or dangerous mistakes
To pass your driving test, you must show that you are a good and safe driver. You’re unfortunately not ready if you regularly make serious and dangerous mistakes in your lessons. On your test, you may make some minor mistakes, but if you are causing dangerous incidents and calling them ‘silly mistakes,’ you will need more practice before your test.
3. You are passing mock tests
Mock driving tests are a great way to see if you are ready to take your driving test. If you are finding that you are passing mock tests regularly, then you know you are prepared for the real thing.
4. You can control any driving test nerves
It is crucial that you are capable of managing your nerves when you take your driving test. If you can practise controlling your nerves when you are feeling the pressure, you will be able to stay calm and focused on your driving test.
5. Your driving instructor agrees that you’re ready
One of the easiest ways to know that you are ready is if your instructor tells you you are ready. All our driving instructors have years of experience and training, allowing them to know when you should be booking your test. Our driving instructor in London, Nish Parmar, said, “Getting test ready can be daunting, and several learners lack confidence. Due to being an instructor, you can see how close learners are before they even realise it. If your instructor advises that you are ready to take your test, then this should give you a massive boost to your confidence.”
Find a local driving instructor near you!
If you are unprepared, you can move your test
If you are unprepared for your driving test, you can move your test date. This frees it up for other pupils and means you don’t have to pay for multiple driving tests.
Moving your driving test back allows you to:
- Brush up on your skills
- Take more mock tests
- Find a way to manage your nerves
- Ensure you are ready for your test
It will be free for you to change your test, so long as you do it at least three full working days (Monday to Saturday) before your test.
You can discover more on the ‘Ready to Pass?’ campaign by visiting the Gov website.
