How to Pass a Drivers License Driving Skills Test

You passed the written test and got a drivers permit from the local Division of Motor Vehicles or DMV. Now all that stands between you and a drivers license is the driving test. Independently using a car offers numerous opportunities for work and social activities, but you've got to pass a drivers license driving skills test to make that a reality. A concentrated effort before and during the test will help you make a passing grade.

Difficulty: Moderately Challenging

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• Drivers handbook with local traffic regulations

1. Obtain a copy of the driving regulations for your area. U.S. states publish a free driver's handbook with local traffic laws and guidelines for driving skills you'll be expected to display on your test. Read the book several times and commit the procedures to memory. Follow the outlined steps, such as checking mirrors and blind spots before making a lane change.

2. Practice driving as often as possible with a licensed driver riding along in the passenger's seat. Take advantage of the experience of that driver and ask questions about anything you're not absolutely certain of. Give yourself extra time to master difficult maneuvers such as parallel parking.

3. Take driving seriously. Think about what you're doing instead of thinking about how cool you must look behind the wheel or how good the music is. Take note of how the car moves, the lane positions, the turning angles and especially the other traffic around you. Focus your attention on making yourself a good driver.

4. Go to the DMV mentally prepared for the test on one of the dates within the specified testing window. Bring your drivers permit with you.

5. Fasten your seat belt as soon as you enter the vehicle with the DMV testing agent. Check all mirror adjustments immediately. This will make a good first impression.

6. Answer all of the tester's questions as briefly as possible. It's likely the agent will ask you to verify all the information he copies from your permit onto the test paper. Answer yes or no, or simply give the information requested, such as the correct spelling of your name.

7. Take direction from the tester without any suspicion. A tester will not tell you to do something illegal or unsafe to trick you into making a mistake.

8. Follow the directions outlined in the driver's handbook. If the tester asks you to pull over to the side of the road, let that be your cue to turn on your directional signal and check your mirrors. When she tells you to pull back onto the road, turn on your blinker and check mirrors and blind spots again. Wait for a safe opening in traffic to enter the road.

9. Stay calm at all times, no matter what happens. If you have to stop suddenly for a squirrel, don't let it rattle you. Just keep your attention on driving safely. A tester may not grant a license to a driver who is nervous behind the wheel.

10. Avoid idle conversation during your test. Simply take direction and make your moves according to the rules. Above all, don't ask questions about driving. This is a test to show what you know about driving. It won't help for you to expose what you don't know.

11. Check the traffic at intersections yourself. Don't ask a passenger, especially a DMV tester, to tell you if it's clear on his side.

12. Use the test as an opportunity to show off all the skills you've memorized and practiced. Confidently display knowledge of the driver's handbook in the procedures you follow in front of the testing agent.