How to Stop Nerves From a Drive Test

Passing your test can greatly improve your quality of life.

There are understandable reasons for nerves before a drive test. Your test is unlike many other types of assessment, in that at this final hurdle, it is just you and the examiner in the car, and you have to do it for yourself. Unlike many other examinations, more or less anything can happen on the day, no matter how well you are prepared. In addition, there is peer pressure to pass your test, particularly if all your friends are doing it around the same time as you. There is also the cost factor, which can add even more pressure. A manageable amount of nerves is fine, probably better than over-confidence. But you do not want your nervousness to affect your performance.

Instructions

1. Tell yourself that some nervousness is normal and is probably experienced by everyone taking the test. Discuss your progress with your instructor and do not be tempted to apply for the test until you both feel that you are ready. If this means more lessons, this is money well spent if it helps you to achieve your goal. Schedule your test for a time in your life where you do not have a lot of other pressure, such as school exams.

2. Ask your instructor to take you on several "practice runs" so you can rehearse for the actual test. Be as familiar as possible with the likely route the test will take. Try to schedule it for a time in the day that suits you best; if you are a morning person, try to take your test early in the day. Avoid comparing yourself to others. Some people appear to sail through the test first time, others take longer.

3. Try to have a good night's sleep the night before the test. Avoid having alcohol the evening before, and do not take drugs. Even herbal nerve remedies should be avoided if you are not familiar with them. They might have adverse effects. Treat the examiner with respect. Do not be disconcerted if she does not chat. She has a job to do, and she needs to concentrate.

Tips & Warnings

• Some people find it helpful to visualize success.

• You add to the pressure if you tell everybody your test date; it may be best to keep this to yourself.

References

• Karens School of Motoring: How to Overcome Theory and...
• NYS DMV: Road Test Tips: A Practice Guide