We often get people who call asking for just a few lessons before they take their driving test.
When we ask about their previous experience, a common reply is “I’m at test standard already, I just need a brush up.
Taking your test too early could lead to a failed test, disappointment, and potentially delays to you getting on the road.
51 out of every 100 driving tests were failed between October and December 2021.
So, how do you know you are at a driving test standard?
To pass the driving test you must be able to: drive safely in different road and traffic conditions; and show that you know The Highway Code by the way you drive.
The government have built a campaign called Ready to Pass, to help learners gauge when they are ready to take a driving test.
They explain that you will usually be ready when:
1. You do not need help or prompts from your driving instructor.
You need to be dealing with every part of driving consistently, confidently and independently – without any prompting from your driving instructor.
You’ll be getting ready for your test when you can adapt to situations and see why perfecting your skills makes you safer and more fuel-efficient.
2. You do not make silly mistakes when you’re driving.
You need to be a good driver to pass the driving test. If you regularly make silly mistakes during your driving lessons, you’re not ready to take and pass your driving test.
3. You pass every mock driving test you do.
Lots of people who fail the driving test incorrectly think it’s because they were marked too harshly. It’s actually because they did not know the standard that’s needed to pass.
Taking and passing mock tests with your driving instructor will help you understand how the marking works and if you’re ready to pass.
4. You can control your nerves.
Controlling your nerves is a really important skill for driving safely.
Make sure you’ve got a plan in place to manage your nerves when you take your test.
5. Your driving instructor says you’re ready.
If your driving instructor says you’re not ready to take your driving test, listen to them. They’re a trained expert with lots of driving experience, and they know what it takes to pass the driving test.
Remember, they want you to be a safe driver, keep your insurance costs low, and enjoy driving for years to come.
You can learn more from the Ready to Pass campaign here
You can find out the top 10 reasons people fail the driving test here
