Preparing for your K53 driving license test is no easy feat. There are so many rules, regulations and road signs to memorise before you even get behind the wheel for the first time.
It is important to remember – when you feel like you will never master hill starts or parallel parking – that practice makes perfect. If you are willing to put in the time and focused attention, you will reap the rewards when your test day comes.
Here are ten tips to prepare you for your big test day:
1. Make clutch control your top priority:
One of the very first things you need to master when learning to drive is clutch control; and unless you practice this thoroughly throughout your driving lessons and practice sessions, you may not have adequate control over your vehicle during your driver’s license test. Don’t even put your name down for your test until you feel confident about your clutch control.
2. Parking practice makes perfect:
Practice your parking until you are an absolute ace at Ally Docking and Parallel Parking – two critical elements of the driver’s license Yard Test.
3. Don’t forget your L-sign:
It is important to alert other motorists on the road that you are a learner driver. TOWER offers a self-adhesive Learner Sign decal as well as an ABS Learner Sign that are easy to use and stays intact – ensuring that they are always visible to other drivers on the road.
4. Dress rehearsal:
Many driving schools offer mock tests to give you an idea of what to expect during your actual driving license test. This is a great opportunity to discover your strengths and weaknesses, so that you can work on the areas that may let you down on the day.
5. Use a vehicle you know:
If possible, conduct your test in the same vehicle that you have practised in and used for your driving lessons. This will make you feel much more comfortable and confident behind the wheel when you are doing your test, as well as make clutch control and parking a lot easier to manage. You will also know where to find important controls and buttons such as your hazard lights, indicators and windscreen wipers when you need them.
6. Get to know the testing area:
If possible, schedule a few practice drives in the area where your driver’s test will take place. Being familiar with the traffic lights, stop signs, speed limits and other conditions in this location will not only prepare you well for your test but also help to soothe your nerves due to the familiarity of the route.
7. Adjust your mirrors:
The evening before your test appointment, spend some time adjusting your mirrors to find the sweet spots that offer the best visibility. You certainly do not want to be adjusting your mirrors during the test while you are supposed to be concentrating on other things.
8. Arrive early:
Make sure that you arrive about 20 to 30 minutes early for your test to ensure that you are relaxed and ready when your name is called. This is far better than arriving flustered due to running a little late. That said, it is also important not to arrive too early or your anxiety may get the better of you.
9. Four way stop etiquette:
If you come to a four way stop during your test, remember that it is first come first served. If you pull up at the same time as another vehicle, let them go first out of courtesy. This will give you time to collect your thoughts.
10. Keep your head in the game:
If you make a small mistake during your driver’s license test. Try to put it out of your mind, focus on the task at hand and listen carefully to your examiner’s instructions.