Drive Test Jitters: How to Calm Your Nerves Before Your Road Test
Updated: May 26, 2023
First of all, congratulations on taking a significant step towards the open road! As you prepare for your road test, it's natural to feel nervous. However, it's crucial to stay calm and composed throughout the process. Managing your nerves effectively is key to ensuring a successful outcome. Here are some valuable tips to help you maintain a sense of calm both before and during your road test:
1. Sign up for driving school
Having a calm nerve before your drive test is essential, and having a qualified driving instructor by your side is invaluable. Our driving instructors serve as an excellent resource throughout your learning journey. They not only teach you the fundamental driving techniques but also ensure you are well-versed in the rules of the road and the requirements for acing your road test. Rest assured, our instructors undergo annual re-certification to stay updated on any changes to the Ministry of Transportation's regulations.
Our comprehensive courses provide a holistic approach to drivers' education, encompassing both theoretical knowledge and practical skills. By combining these essential elements, we equip you with the necessary expertise and confidence to pass your test with flying colors. With our instruction, you'll be well-prepared to tackle the challenges of the road and demonstrate your capabilities during the drive test.
2. Practice makes perfect
Driving a car is not something that can be crammed and learned overnight. Passing a road test requires a long-term commitment to learning and practicing. Becoming a licensed driver also bears a huge responsibility to your safety and the safety of others – so, it’s best to take it seriously. Be sure to practice all driving maneuvers (turning right on a red light, stopping at a stop sign, checking blind spots) and parking styles (parallel, backing in, pulling in). If you feel comfortable with all driving maneuvers, you will be ready for anything your examiner may test you on!
3. Consult with your instructor
Your instructor is qualified in assessing your learning needs. They may already know when you need more practice in a certain area, but should you feel uncomfortable or anxious for a particular part of the test, just let them know! They’re there to support you through this experience and can develop strategies to help you feel more confident going into your examination.
4. The day before your road test
It’s the day before your test. What can you do to prepare for the big day? Start with getting some exercise to boost your mood and get a good night’s sleep. Keep a positive mindset throughout the day and, if there’s time, book one of your lessons the day before for some extra practice closer to your test.
5. The day of your road test
Try to book your test for the morning if you feel like you’ll be anxious throughout the day. If your test is taking place in the middle of the day or the afternoon, treat the day as if it is any other day! Stick to your normal routine and stay focused. Many people choose to book a lesson with their instructor for the hour prior to the test. This way, everything you’ve learned is fresh in your memory! Steer clear of excessive amounts of caffeine and opt for water instead. Also remember to eat a healthy breakfast and dress comfortably.
6. Deep breathe helps calming nerve before road test
It's completely understandable that nerves can affect individuals differently when it comes to their driving test. However, it's important to find ways to manage those nerves and maintain a calm state of mind. One effective technique to calm your nerve before your real road test is to engage in deep breathing exercises. These exercises have been shown to reduce stress and anxiety. Start by taking a long, slow breath in through your nose, focusing on the sensation of the air filling your lungs. Hold your breath for three seconds, allowing yourself to fully embrace the moment. As you exhale slowly through your mouth, visualize releasing any tension or worries. Pay particular attention to relaxing the muscles in your face, hands, jaw, shoulders, and stomach. Repeat these steps as many times as necessary, using the power of deep breathing to calm your nerves and prepare yourself for the driving test ahead.
7. During the road test
The start of your road test is crucial because it’s the first impression you give your examiner. Focus on starting the engine and looking around the car for any hazards or obstructions you might need to consider as you move from your parking spot. Also remember to listen to your examiner. They will give you necessary instructions during your test and will be sure to give you enough notice for any turns or maneuvers coming up. Most importantly, whatever might happen, don’t panic. Should you encounter sirens, a collision, or any other new developments during your test, remain calm and assess your approach before you continue. Even though a perfect test is the goal, don’t assume you’ve failed if you make a mistake. You’re entitled to a certain number of minor faults, so it’s important to continue the test to the best of your ability.
8. Don’t be discouraged
In any case where you don’t pass your road test, try not to beat yourself up. You may have done everything you can to prepare for your test. Mistakes happen and a failed test is an opportunity to work on areas where you may have been struggling before. First, try to maintain a positive attitude. Then book an assessment with your instructor and have them go over the details of the test to see where you might need more practice.
9. Get back up and try again!
Re-book your road test when possible and repeat these steps as needed. Remember, some people don’t pass their first test and this is completely fine. Your examiner is not your enemy – their job is solely to ensure you are licensed only when you are ready. Keep pushing and practicing and not only will you be ready for your test, but for a future full of safe driving!
