Passing the DMV Drive Test (Page 3)

Ace the Pre-Drive Test

Okay, you're buckled in, mirrors adjusted and you're gearing to go. The DMV test official walks to your car and the dreaded test begins. First things first, your tester will inspect your vehicle from lights to horn to brakes. Hopefully you've arrived in a test ready car or truck. If your vehicle passes the "mechanical" test then it's on to a series of test questions about operating controls, such as "Can your show me your hand signals?" and "Where are you hazard lights?" This is commonly known as the pre-drive test and if you get three of these pre-drive questions wrong you will be, dare I say, automatically disqualified before even taking the driving portion of your test. Word of advice: know how to use all those little knobs and buttons on your dash and around your steering wheel!

Pass the Drive Test with 'Driving' Colors

The next 10-20 minutes or so will determine if you will be able to drive to the mall or school all by yourself tomorrow. So take a deep breath (don't forget to exhale) and get ready to deliver the best driving performance of your life. When the DMV test administrator gets into the car with you don't panic! Take a look - they are human beings - just like you. If you can put them at ease for the next 10-20 minutes with your driving prowess there's a good chance that they'll gladly grant you your license. Oh, and just a little tip: your test administrator will take notes during your drive test whether you are driving remarkably or unremarkably (so don't get flustered if you hear them writing during you test). If you get through the test without any critical driving errors (or "auto fails" as they say) and get fewer than 16 minor driving violations, you'll be going home a licensed driver! Here's a short list of guidelines to follow to help you pass:

• Drive smoothly at all times. Finesse people.


• Accelerate smoothly. Don't be in such a hurry to get up to the speed limit.


• Stop smoothly. No one likes Mr. Whiplash - make sure you start slowing down far enough in advance!


• This would seem obvious, but OBEY THE SPEED LIMIT. Seriously.


• Don't tailgate - keep a safe space cushion with other cars. Use the old 3-second rule (4 seconds if you're in an SUV)


• Be comfortable with all different kinds of traffic signs and signals. (Hint: Red light means STOP)


• Use your turn signals, mirrors, and make traffic checks when changing lanes, making turns, and curbside parking. (S.M.O.G. - Signal Mirror Over-the-shoulder Go)


• Defensive driving is key. Be a step ahead of everyone else on the road. Look for potential hazards and react to them accordingly. Don't let other people's poor driving spoil your test.