Hints for the Test

Revise the Rules of the Road.

Know your vehicle, know the main engine
parts and functions.

Check that you have L-plates, tax & insurance,
lights and signals working, good tyres,
brake fluid and washer.

Keep calm and don't get overconfident.
Drive positively and sensibly.

Look in your mirrors as much as you possibly can without overdoing it. Many people fail their test due to lack of observation alone.

Remember and practice the correct sequence of actions: Mirrors, Signal and position.

Wear comfortable shoes.

Arrive for your test in good time. Otherwise you will be flustered and out of breath and will not perform well.

Maintain the correct speed.
Signal your intentions early.

Be aware of traffic signals, road signs and markings.

Maintain a safe distance from the vehicle in front. Remember: 'Only a fool breaks the two second rule'! In dry conditions allow two second of time between the car in front and your car. Double that in wet weather or poor road conditions.
Maintain a high level of observation, looking in your mirrors often and looking over your shoulder when changing lanes or, pulling out, turning or on roundabouts.
Watch for potential hazards.

Use your car controls properly i.e. steering, brakes, clutch, gears, accelerator etc.

Maintain the correct road position.

Maintain good progress and do not drive too slowly as this can also be a hazard.

Use 'pull / push' steering method.

On the Day

Your car should be clean and tidy, without any clutter or items that could roll around the floor, and it should be in good mechanical order. Also ensure that you:
Arrive early, at least 10 to15 minutes before your appointment time.

Have your provisional licence and notification letter with you.

Check that the insurance and tax discs are up to date, that your car is roadworthy and has an NCT certificate if applicable.

Check that the car has 'L' plates properly fitted and not obstructing vision.

Check that the brake lights and indicators are working and are clean.
Have clean mirrors.
Have a basic understanding of the mechanics of the car and know how to work the secondary controls, such as the windscreen wipers and demisters, etc.
Check that the tyres have more than the minimum thread depth which is 1.6mm.
Check that the seat belts are working and position the head-restraints properly.

Kennedy School of Motoring can provide you with a roadworthy car for your test if necessary. But you must book early to prevent disappointment. We can also include a pre-test lesson before your actual test.
Make sure that you get to bed early the night before your test to be fresh and bright. Also eat a good breakfast and avoid too much coffee as it may make you jittery.
Drink plenty of water or juice beforehand.

Channel your nervousness into a strong determination to do your best, this really works just think 'determined' every time you start feeling nervous.

There is nothing to fear only fear itself! It will not be the end of the world should you fail. Just remember the examiner is not looking for the next Michael Schumacher. Your drive should be confident, competent, safe and demonstrate full consideration for other road users.
Keep the test in perspective, after all it's just a driving test, you are not taking the space shuttle to mars.

Best of luck with your test

Rita Kennedy