6 Tips To Succeed at Driving School on Your First Try – The Study Abroad Portal

Driving by yourself is one of the major steps to your independence. But you can’t get behind the wheel freely without a license. To get that, you’ll need to take driving lessons and pass a test.

Driving tests are practical exams that showcase your knowledge and ability to maneuver a vehicle properly. Like other assessments, you could either pass or fail it. So, if you want to succeed on the first try, keep reading this article. Here are some tips to help you at driving school.

1. Master the Basics

You become more confident and precise on the road when you understand your vehicle’s basic functions. Practice controlling the steering wheel, accelerator, and brake pedals. And if you’re learning manual transmission, get comfortable with the clutch pedal. Learn how to adjust and check your mirrors and practice blind spot checks to stay aware of your surroundings.

Defensive driving is all about anticipation. Practice keeping a safe distance and alert to potential hazards like sudden stops or road obstacles. If you get a call or need to adjust your radio, save it for later and keep your eyes on the road and hands on the wheel. Around 78% of people say getting distracted by a phone while driving is a huge concern in local communities. It’s always wise to prioritize your safety and that of others as a driver. (1)

A reputable driving school will provide comprehensive theory classes that cover these basic topics, including local traffic laws, which you can access online. Experienced and licensed instructors will also teach you speed limits, the meaning of stop and yield signs, and lane discipline. Plus, a good school will have a road safety program to build safe driving habits in their students, making them responsible future drivers.

2. Practice Outside of Lessons

Learning continues even after your scheduled driving lessons wrap up for the day. In your free time, arrange practice drives with a licensed driver, like a friend or family member, to strengthen what you’ve learned in school. This reinforces essential driving skills and gives you more time to become comfortable behind the wheel.

Taking the wheel in various weather conditions and at different times really sharpens your driving abilities. Rain, dusk, or nighttime driving each brings unique challenges, so exposure to these circumstances prepares you for real-life situations. It’ll make you feel more ready on test day.

Several studies show mixed findings that rain makes most people drive more safely while others underestimate the danger. But you wouldn’t know what driving during a downpour truly feels like unless you’ve already done so. (2)

3. Be Punctual and Prepared

Coming early to the driving school or road test appointment gives you breathing room to get settled, go through what you’ve learned, and calm your nerves. If you’re taking online classes for your theory courses, be there on time, too. A peaceful start puts you in the right frame of mind and gives you time to focus.

Always have your learner’s permit and any required paperwork ready. Having your notes from previous sessions on hand also helps keep track of your progress. Make sure you’re working on improvement areas to maximize your lessons.

Remember to dress comfortably as well. Looser clothes allow free movement. Avoid tight or restrictive clothing that could interfere with your ability to maneuver. Consider wearing your most comfortable shoes so you’ll have a solid grip on the pedals.

4. Communicate With Your Instructor

If you’re unsure about something, asking shows you’re engaged and interested in understanding the process. This back-and-forth helps you learn effectively, and instructors appreciate students who are proactive about learning.

After each lesson, ask them for feedback on what you did well and where you need improvement. This will give you clear targets to work on, making your practice sessions more effective.

Working with your driving instructor to set achievable goals for each lesson keeps you focused on specific skills. These small, focused targets build confidence as you gradually master each part of driving.

5. Stay Calm and Focused

Driving requires calm and focused attention on the road. Techniques like deep breathing could reduce your pre-lesson anxiety. Focusing on each step and keeping your mind clear of distractions helps you respond smoothly to driving tasks and maintain vehicle control.

Visualization is a proven technique that builds confidence. Research suggests that it could improve your decision-making speed and quality, which are crucial when driving. Picture yourself driving skillfully and smoothly, executing each maneuver. This positive mental rehearsal makes you feel more capable and often reduces anxiety. (3)

6. Reflect and Learn From Mistakes

Take a few minutes after each lesson to jot down what clicked and what needs work. Your notes will come in handy when tracking how far you’ve come. They’ll also highlight what to focus on next time.

Every learner makes mistakes; it’s part of the process. Each error points you toward something specific to improve. Instead of feeling down, channel that energy into polishing those skills.

And if you gain little victories, celebrate them! Maybe you executed a smooth turn, parked accurately, or handled a tricky intersection. Acknowledging your progress boosts your confidence and keeps you excited about learning in driving school.

Final Thoughts

Want to ace your driving test on the first try? Focus on understanding the fundamentals, set aside proper practice time, and approach each lesson with an upbeat attitude.

Enrolling in a trusted driving school gives you access to instructors who will shape you into a safe and responsible driver. Don’t hesitate to ask the pros questions, too. The deeper your understanding of driving basics and rules, the smoother your path to getting licensed will be.

References

1. “Many Americans perceive a rise in dangerous driving; 78% see cellphone distraction as major problem,” Source: https://www.pewresearch.org/short-reads/2024/11/12/many-americans-perceive-a-rise-in-dangerous-driving-78-see-cellphone-distraction-as-major-problem/ 
2. “Do people drive differently in the rain? Here’s what the research says,” Source: https://theconversation.com/do-people-drive-differently-in-the-rain-heres-what-the-research-says-181777
3. “The effects of visualization on judgment and decision-making: a systematic literature review,” Source: https://link.springer.com/article/10.1007/s11301-021-00235-8