Did you know that over 44 percent of people end up failing their driving test? This means for every 10 people who take out the time, money and effort to take a driving test only 4 of them might get the license in the end. But if you’re reading this, we are going to make sure you’re not one of them. Here is everything you need to know about how to prepare for your first driving test and pass.
Whether you're a pumped-up teen ready for that license or an adventurous adult taking the plunge into driving, prepping for the NY driving test can be challenging. With some savvy planning and prep, you’ll be able to pass the test with a smile – and impress the DMV examiner while you're at it.
Common Driving Test Mistakes
When it comes to preparing for your driving test in NY, it’s helpful to know what you need to avoid while taking the test.
In case you’re wondering, how many times can you fail your road driving test in NY?
If you did not pass your initial two road tests, scheduling another one is possible, but you’ll have to pay additional fees and wait for about 7 days before you can retake the test.
However, if you avoid these common mistakes while you’re practicing, whether that’s at a driving school or in an empty parking lot you’ll save yourself time and money:
- Rushing while trying to park (especially parallel parking)
- Being inconsistent while braking and accelerating (this includes slamming on the breaks or flooring the gas pedal)
- Not handling curves in the road well
- Making illegal lane changes or changing lanes without looking
- Not making sure the road is clear before proceeding through an intersection
- Following too closely
- Underusing the turn signal
- Not asking for help when you’re unsure of what to do
This last one is extremely important. It’s okay to ask for help — your instructor would rather give you advice than have you put them in a dangerous situation.
How to Prepare for Your NY Driving Test
Now that you've got the lowdown on what to steer clear of during your NY driving test, let's tackle the million-dollar question – how do you make sure you avoid all these mistakes, though?
That list is a lot to remember when you’re already going through a nerve-wracking experience.
The key is to be as well-prepared as possible. Here are some tips that will help you ensure you’re ready for your test and can feel confident going through it:
Be Ready with the Learner’s Permit
It's a fundamental rule of the road – no learner's permit, no shot at the NY driving test. Fortunately, we've got a comprehensive guide to help you secure that permit. As a bonus, we've curated a set of DMV permit test questions and answers to enhance your preparation. It's a thoughtful package to steer you confidently through the driving test journey.
Click here to access the 2020 DMV permit test questions and answers.
Know What to Expect
One of the best ways to prepare for your NY driving test is to know what the test entails before you show up to take it.
Most road tests do not take very long — you can expect to be in the car for about 20 minutes or so. During the test, you’ll be asked to demonstrate a variety of skills, including the following:
- Smooth steering while driving straight, reversing, and turning
- Smooth and moderate acceleration
- Gentle braking
- Keeping the vehicle in the correct gear
- Adhering to speed limits and adjusting to accommodate road, weather, and visibility conditions
- Maintaining a safe following distance
- Identifying and obeying various traffic signs and signals
- Keeping your vehicle in the proper position when stopping
- Keeping your vehicle in the proper lane
- Using your turn signal and horn to communicate with other drivers and pedestrians
The DMV examiner is watching to see how well you demonstrate your observation skills and ability to react and anticipate potential errors from other drivers. This is why the next step is important to help you handle driving test anxiety and pass the test easily.
Take Regular Lessons
Taking regular lessons leading up to your NY driving test can help you to feel more prepared and confident when you get behind the wheel.
You’ll also be more aware of the mistakes you have a tendency to make before your DMV examiner will have the chance to spot them.
Make sure that you attend these lessons regularly and don’t skip them unless a true emergency arises. It’s hard to gain the skills you need when you’re not showing up to class on a consistent basis.
Monitor Your Progress
While you’re taking your driving lessons, keep track of your progress.
Pay attention to areas in which you’re improving and make sure that you’re celebrating small victories along the way. Sometimes drivers end up making mistakes during their test due to driving test anxiety. Monitoring your progress helps you build confidence for when you meet your DMV examiner.
At the same time, make sure you’re also being honest with yourself about the areas in which you need to improve.
Practice, Then Practice Some More
The more practicing you do leading up to your test, the better you’ll feel when the time comes to actually take it.
When you’re practicing, pay special attention to areas in which you’re struggling. Focus on the specific skills you will need to demonstrate to the DMV examiner during the test, too.
Take a Practice Test
If possible, try to take a practice driving test before you take the real thing.
This can help you get some of your driving test anxiety out, and you’ll have a better idea of what to expect with your DMV examiner during your licensing test.
Many people find that they feel a lot more confident taking a test when they’ve done a practice round first. Feel free to check out our YouTube video to guide you on your upcoming practice drive and help you navigate through the process.
[embedyt] https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=KL8kElqnYQM[/embedyt]
Make Sure Your Car Is Test-Ready
When you take your NY driving test, you will need to bring a safe vehicle with you.
Obviously, since you can’t drive the car there yourself, you’ll need to be accompanied by a licensed driver who is 21 years of age or older.
Your car must be registered and inspected. It should have functional headlights, seatbelts, turn signals, and windshield wipers, too. It never hurts for the car to be clean (inside and out), too.
Get a Good Night’s Sleep
Finally, be sure to get a good night’s sleep prior to taking your test.
If you get plenty of sleep, you’ll feel rested, alert, and ready to do your best during the test.
Research also shows that sufficient sleep can enhance your exam performance and help you get a higher score.
Here are some other information about the NY driving test that you might find useful:
How much is the road test in NY?
Your learner permit application fee covers two road tests upfront. However, failing either of the initial two means you'll need to buy an additional pair at $10.00 to reschedule.
How many times can you fail your road test in NY?
In case you fail your driving test the first time, you can book a retest, but brace for extra fees after failing your initial two attempts. You’ll also have to wait a minimum of 7 days before your next test with a DMV examiner.
Is it hard to pass the NY driving test the first time?
Mastering the NY driving test on the first try? It's possible! Don’t worry, your DMV examiner is not out to get you. If you can master your driving test anxiety, and practice the tips in this article you stand a fair chance of passing. But if you need assistance to help guarantee that you don’t repeat that driving test, see bellow.
Need Help Preparing for Your NY Driving Test?
As you can see, there’s a lot you need to do when it comes to figuring out how to prepare for your driving test.
Because of all the information involved, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed as you get ready for the big day.
If you’re not feeling as confident as you’d like to feel going into your test or you have driving test anxiety, consider working with us at Pierre Paul Driving.
Check out our different driver’s education packages today. You can also contact us to sign up or to learn more about how we can help you get prepared for your test.
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