The pass rate of the UK driving test
is only about 50 percent so how do you try to make sure you're in
the passing half? Well, by remembering a few simple things you can avoid falling into the traps a lot of learners fall into. This is one of the most common reasons
to fail a driving test. If you don't check your mirrors when approaching junctions, you run the risk of missing nearby hazards. Simply put, if you're changing either speed
or direction or moving off in the vehicle, check your
mirrors. It's better to overuse them than underuse them. This action can seem intimidating, but by keeping calm and remembering the procedure – position your vehicle near the centre line, keep up your observations, slow down,
maintain your clutch control and time your exit carefully – it's not
as difficult as it first seems. As long as you don't cross your arms
while steering, allow the wheel to spin freely, and don't
drive without your hands on the wheel, any longer than is necessary to change gear, you won't lose any points here.
Moving off safely is as easy as
remembering your MSPSL routine. Check our YouTube channel to find out
how to pull it off flawlessly every time. You'd be amazed how many learner drivers forget to stop for red lights. We know nerves can cause you to make some silly mistakes, but by keeping an eye on the road ahead
you'll find yourself ready to respond to traffic lights a
long way in advance. Using the wrong lane on roundabouts, or
coasting over the white line at junctions can slip up even the best-prepared learner. If you find yourself in the wrong lane, run through your MSPSL routine and move over when safe. You need to demonstrate that you're in complete
control of the vehicle so no rolling back or kangarooing whilst doing a hill start. It's a shame this one slips up so many
learner drivers since it's so easy to prepare for. All it
takes is practice. Make sure you know how to reverse park
properly before your test, and you'll be fine.
All those white and yellow squiggles on the road are there for a reason. Make sure you know what and always read the road ahead of you, so you don't find yourself stopping in a yellow box junction. Top tip: book a driving lesson for an hour
before your test and ask your instructor to watch
extra carefully for any of the mistakes mentioned above. And check your mirrors..