One of the questions we get asked most frequently is what students should do to prepare for the driving test. The keys to acing the test are simply to relax and be confident in what you’ve learned from driver ed, your driving instructor, and your parents. But there are still some best practices that will make passing your driving test much easier.
Let’s look at everything you need to know for the driving exam: what to expect on the road test and how to prepare for it.
What is a Driving Test?
The behind-the-wheel test, or driving exam, assesses your ability to operate a motor vehicle. It’s different from the exam you had to take to get a learners permit. That was a multiple-choice test taken in an office to evaluate your comprehension of road rules and regulations.
The driving test does not have multiple-choice questions. It consists of hands-on practical skills used while driving down the road.
To take the driving test, you must pass the permit test to get your learner permit. But you can’t jump from one test to the next. In most circumstances, you have to complete behind-the-wheel training before you’re eligible to take the driving test.
What is on the Road Test?
The official DMV driving test to get a drivers license usually consists of two parts. The first part is a skills test that requires you to complete basic driving maneuvers, usually in the DMV parking lot. The second part is assessing your ability to drive with other cars on the road.
The driving test is going to cover a lot of ground. Here are some things you’ll need to practice in order to prepare for the exam:
Checking mirrors
Using signals
Backing out and pulling into a parking space
Acceleration
Braking
Parallel parking (not required in some states)
3-point turns
Safe following distance
Right of way
Traffic signals
Changing lanes
Shifting gears
Keep in mind that the driver’s test varies by state. You should have a strong understanding of all these skills and concepts, but they probably won’t all appear on your driving test. For a better idea of what you’ll be tested on, check out your state’s DMV driver license handbook.
How Do I Practice for the Behind-the-Wheel Test?
The behind-the-wheel exam is a practical test, meaning you must demonstrate your capabilities. The best thing you can do is practice, practice, practice! In many states, this isn’t an option because new drivers, particularly drivers under 18 years old, must clock a certain number of hours behind the wheel before getting a license.
In addition to practicing basic driving skills and driving in traffic, you can ask your parent or driving instructor to simulate a practice test. Practice tests are great study tools, because you can understand what to expect on the actual testing day and mentally prepare yourself.
It’s also a good idea to brush up on the road rules and regulations you were tested on during the permit exam. You won’t be questioned on the information, but you need to be familiar with road signs and rules so you don’t break traffic laws during your test.
What Do I Need to Bring for the Driving Test?
Once you jump through the learner’s permit hoops, you’ll get much of the paperwork and testing out of the way. The last thing to do is schedule your driving test and amaze the test administrator with your well-honed skills. Here’s what you’ll need to bring with you on test day:
A car is the most important thing you need to bring to the driving test (besides yourself).
You’ll also need a licensed driver to accompany you to the test since you aren’t licensed to drive there on your own yet.
You don’t have to own the vehicle, but you must bring proof of up-to-date registration and insurance.
If you’re under 18, you’ll also have to bring your learner’s permit.
You might be required to provide proof that you completed behind-the-wheel training.*
You may also need to bring your driver education course completion certificate.*
*PLEASE NOTE: In most states, behind-the-wheel practice hours need to be fulfilled before you can take the driving test. Drivers education is also required in most states, however, it can depend on the age of the new driver and some options include parent taught drivers ed.
Pre-Exam Vehicle Inspection
The DMV test will also include a pre-trip inspection of your car to ensure its safety. If your vehicle has any issues, such as a broken taillight or mirror, you’ll need to fix them before you can take the exam.
Once your vehicle passes the inspection, the test will begin. The best thing you can do is relax and enjoy the ride. If you’ve prepared and practiced behind the wheel, you should have all the skills to ace your driving exam!
*This article was updated on 11/12/2024.