10 Most Common Mistakes To Should Avoid On A Driving Exam

10 Most Common Mistakes You Should Avoid On A Driving Exam

Before you can get your driver’s license, you must pass the DMV on-the-road test, in addition to a written or knowledge test. If you are prepared and alert, passing the driving test is not too difficult. To improve your chances of success, it’s important to avoid common driving test mistakes and strive for a better score on the practice test. In this article, we will discuss the 10 most common mistakes to avoid on the driving test and answer some FAQs teens might have on the DMV exam. Let’s dive in!

Related Content: 15 Tips For Nerves On Driving Test

Here are the common mistakes to avoid and our tips for passing the DMV drive test!

What To Avoid On Your Driver’s Test

1. Not Fastening The Seat Belt

One of the common reasons why people fail the driving test is forgetting to fasten their seat belt. Why? Because according to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, seat belt use reduces the risk of fatal injury to front-seat passengers by 45% and the risk of moderate-to-critical injury by 50%. While this is such a basic and simple task, many test-takers forget to do so. Failing to fasten your seat belt can lead to an automatic fail on your test.

2. Making Incomplete Stops

Another mistake that can lead to automatic fails is making rolling stops or incomplete stops at stop signs. In fact, this is considered illegal in all states. According to the California Department of Motor Vehicles, drivers are required to come to a complete stop at stop signs and red lights before proceeding, and failure to do so can result in points being deducted or even an automatic fail on the driving test. Thus, you must totally avoid it during the driving test. Make complete stops.

3. Driving Too Fast

Test takers tend to drive too fast due to nervousness or anxiety during the test. Driving too fast is a common mistake on a driver’s exam because it increases the risk of accidents and violations of traffic laws. According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, speeding is a contributing factor in about one-third of all traffic fatalities in the United States. So try to remain as calm as possible and drive within the speed limit. In most states, driving too quickly or over the allowed speed results in immediate failure on the test.

4. Driving Slowly

In trying to avoid driving too fast, people tend to drive too slowly. This is another mistake that you must avoid. Driving slow is just as dangerous as driving fast. To be safe, always be mindful of the speed limit and drive within the allowed speed. You may benefit from taking a defensive driving course so you get confident in your skills during driving exams.

5. Improper Braking

The examiner will observe how to brake. Applying excessive brake pressure or braking too abruptly or roughly can result in a failure in the road test as it shows bad habits or just weak driving skills. According to the California DMV, drivers should apply the brakes smoothly and gradually to slow down or stop, and sudden or hard braking can result in loss of control of the vehicle and points being deducted on the driving test.

6. Improper Parallel Parking

It takes time and a lot of practiced driving to master parallel parking. While examiners don’t expect you to be experts at it, you need to know how to properly parallel park. Some states require you to successfully parallel park before you can pass the driving test.

7. Improper Lane Changing

Another common reason why many student drivers fail is improperly changing lanes. The test administrator will observe whether or not you are safely and properly switching from one lane to another. Keep your hand on the wheel and stay focused on the changed lanes during your practical driving test.

8. Following Too Closely

Pass the road test by avoiding this common mistake: following too closely. The administrator will mark down points if you keep an unsafe distance. As a rule, keep around three seconds between your car and the vehicle in front of you. Following too closely is a common mistake on a driver’s exam because it can result in rear-end collisions, violations of traffic laws, and safety hazards for other drivers. According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, rear-end collisions account for approximately one-third of all crashes on U.S. roads, and following too closely is a common cause of these accidents.

9. Not Checking Mirrors

Checking your mirrors consistently is not only to impress the test administrator but more importantly, to ensure your safety. You are more aware of your surroundings when you always glance at the left side, right side, and rearview mirrors, and be aware of the blind spot.

10. Confusion At Four-Way Stops

The administrator expects that you know what to do when on a four-way stop. Prolonged stops at a four-way stop will indicate that you don’t know what to do, which means minus points on your score. Here’s a simple rule: the first to arrive has the first right of way and the vehicle on the right side has priority.

Pass your driving test by avoiding these common mistakes. Taking a driving lesson also helps you prepare better for the test. Best of luck and drive safe.

Frequently Asked Questions

What Are Some Mistakes That Teen Drivers Make On The DMV Driving Test?

Some common mistakes that teenagers make on the DMV driving test include failing to maintain proper steering control, braking too hard, and not paying attention to traffic lights or signs.

How Can Driver’s Education Help Me Prepare For The DMV Behind The Wheel Exam?

Drivers education can help you prepare for the DMV test by teaching you the rules of the road, proper driving techniques, and how to handle different driving situations.

What Should I Do If I’m Having Trouble With Steering Control During My Driver’s Exam?

If you’re having trouble with steering control during the DMV test, take a deep breath, focus on the road ahead, and keep both hands on the steering wheel at all times. Practice steering in a safe area, such as an empty parking lot, to improve your skills.

Can Braking Too Hard Cause Me To Fail The DMV Test?

Yes, braking too hard can cause you to fail the DMV test. Make sure to apply the brakes smoothly and gradually, rather than slamming on them, to avoid losing points.

What Should I Know About Lanes In An Intersection For The DMV Test?

For the DMV test, it’s important to understand how to navigate lanes in an intersection. Always stay in the appropriate lane for your intended direction, and use your turn signals to signal your intentions to other drivers. Remember to check your mirrors and blind spots before changing lanes.

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Joy Nguyen

Teen Safety Expert & Writer at Tracking System Direct

Joy Nguyen is a freelance writer based in California with a focus on education and teen safety. A regular contributor to the Tracking System Direct blog, she frequently writes about teen driving safety, providing essential statistics and safety tips for concerned parents.