When to apply for a practical driving test
This article tries to explain how the decision is made as to when you are ready to apply for the practical test
At the beginning of their course of lessons a pupil will fully understand
that they are not yet ready
to apply for their practical driving test
As their knowledge and competency increases however the question, 'When will I be ready for my practical test?' is bound to be on their minds. This article is aimed at all pupils and is intended to help you gain a better understanding of how your instructor makes the decision.
Before you reach test standard there are several benchmarks that your instructor will look for. The ability to forward plan situations based upon effective observations and the correct application of the relevant procedures. Learning to drive when all is said and done is learning to make your own decisions in advance.
Once the more advanced stages of the course have been completed and you can actually complete all of your manoeuvres reasonably well unaided and drive on all types of roads without too much correction then your instructor will be aware that you are entering the final phase of the process.
I often find pupils suprised at how fussy we instructors have to be over details in the final stages. We are teaching you to drive to quite an exacting set of standards. The procedures are all there for reasons which should have been explained to you. Do not bee too keen to set yourself up for a fall. Take your test when your instructor tells you that you are ready and not before. Your chances of passing it at the first attempt will be much improved.
So what are the minimum requirements then?
In all areas of the country the same sort of things should be looked for primarily by all instructors.
1) You must be able to demonstrate the ability to perform all of the core manoeuvres to test standard the first time of trying. Sometimes I hear the comment, 'but I always do it properly the second time if I get it wrong at first'. Quite frankly who cares? The examiner will only see the first attempt. Let's face it. How many times do you want to try to reverse park when you do it for real? It is so much better to just do it properly the first time.
2) In your area there will probably be a ringroad system or at least a section of main roads that are heavily trafficked throughout the day in the town centre. Your instructor will want you to be able to drive through these streets receiving only instructions for which direction to take next. The observations, indications, lane changes and other moves required you should be able to complete totally independently and without undue hesitation if you want to take a driving test.
3) There may well be a section of road in the area where faster speeds can usually be reached, possibly a dual-carriageway. The roundabouts or crossroads that are available on these roads are usually the last places that a pupil wants to go. These are the roundabouts where three lanes of traffic come bearing down upon you simultaneously while you are trying to find a gap. You have got to be able to cope with these traffic conditions satisfactorily including any overtaking manoeuvres that you may need to perform on the dual-carriageway without undue hesitation.
The list above is not exhaustive and will be added to by instructors as necessary to meet local requirements.
Are we looking for anything else other than driving technique?
Of course we are. Your instructor will also be monitoring your levels of hesitancy in given situations. The large roundabouts for example. If you can complete then but feel like a frightened rabbit whilst doing so it can safely be said that you need a little more practice. Your level of confidence is just as important as your level of knowledge.
Performance related stress is a big thing with people when they are learning to drive. Your instructor will look out for the outward symptoms of stress throughout the course and teach you accordingly.
So I look reasonably confident and I can do everything. Are you happy now?
Consistency is now the key. Your instructor will want to see that you can maintain a high level of driving standards for the complete duration of the lesson. Completing all manoeuvres at the first attempt and completing all junctions and traffic situations independently as you come across them. When you can do this consistently then yes they will be happy. Your instructor will now be happy to congratulate you on your hard work and book your test for you.
By the time that you have reached this point congratulations are in order. Don't forget though. The remaining few lessons on the run up to your test are crucial for maintaining these high standards. Do not be tempted to miss lessons now. If your driving standards drop because you have missed lessons since your test was beeked then your instructor will put the test back to give you time to recover the lost performance. You will not be allowed to take your test in a car with 'Findleys.co.uk' on the roof unless you are thoroughly prepared and a pass is expected the first time.
This attitude is professionalism, not arrogance or beligerence.
It is the vital ingredient that makes us worth the price!
