10 Tips To Pass The Victoria Driving Test
The Victoria practical driving test is a tough nut to crack, but as long as you’re well-prepared and confident with your skills, you can ace the test. What are some the things you can do to make it easier to get a pass on the score sheet? Lucky for you, we’re going to cover the top 10 tips that will help you pass the Victoria driving test.
Let’s get down to it, shall we?
- Read The Driving Test Guide
Each state or territory in Australia has a different set of rules that apply during the driving test. It’s important to familiarize yourself with the rules by reading the driving test handbook of your state. If you do so, you will know what to expect and understand how the examiner will evaluate your performance.
For instance, most driving test guide books will explain that candidates are assessed using five key factors; road position, speed management, vehicle control, decision making, and responding to hazards. Otherwise, you will also find out the minimum pass mark and the rules for cancellation in your state.
But you wouldn’t know that without reading the guidebook, and taking the practice quiz for the Vicroads learners test, would you?
- Improve on your Weak Areas
Sure, in most states, you will be required to log at least 100 to 120 hours with a learner’s license and a competent supervisor on your side. However, just because you’ve been driving for all those hours, it doesn’t mean that you’re ready.
Actually, if you make the same mistake too many times during your practice runs and forget about it, it could become a habit; almost like a reflex. Don’t let yourself get to that point though. A good idea would be to do as much mock test as possible and improve on your weak areas based on the feedback of your instructor or supervisor.
- Book The Test at a Convenient Time
Here is a secret; try to book the test at a convenient time when there is not too much traffic or distractions. For example, if you book the test at 8 or 9 A.M, you have to watch out for students crossing the road when going to school.
Not to mention, there is usually a lot of traffic during rush hours. You don’t want that, do you?
- Know Your Test Drive Vehicle
Of course, the car that you show up with for the driving test must be roadworthy or you would have your driving test cancelled. Because of that, you should take your car to a mechanic for a thorough inspection before the driving test. The last thing you want is your car breaking down during the test.
Another thing; you should bring the same car that you used for practice to the driving test. By doing so, you will be more familiar with the acceleration and braking response.
- Be Punctual
If you arrive late for the driving test, it will be cancelled. To avoid that from happening, make sure that you arrive at least 30 to 15 minutes early before the scheduled appointment.
Besides, you’re more likely to calm down your nerves if you’re not in a rush; which brings us to the next point.
- Don’t Panic
One of the main reasons why most people fail the Vicroads driving test is test nerves. If you panic, you’re more likely to make silly mistakes that could cost you the provisional license.
It’s the small things that matter like getting enough sleep or not drinking too much coffee when it comes to preventing nervousness. You can even chew a piece of gum, or a take a deep breath whenever you feel anxious during the test.
Of course, if you have an anxiety disorder, it would be advisable to consult a physician before the driving test.
- Listen to The Examiner’s Instructions
Believe it or not, some candidates fail the driving test because they disobeyed or misinterpreted the examiner’s instructions. In case you don’t understand the instructions, you can always ask the test examiner clarify.
Most of the examiners are friendly, and they wouldn’t mind if you asked them to repeat the instructions.
- Exaggerate Your Head checks
Here is the thing; if you use just your eyes whenever you’re making a turn, switching lanes, reversing or merging into traffic, the examiner will probably think you’re not observing your surroundings. Remember, you have to be seen to be looking. That means you have to exaggerate your head checks almost like you’re trying to break your neck.
- Point out Hazards on The Road
Similarly, you should point out hazards on the road if you want bonus points. For instance, if you an ongoing construction that is blocking the road, you should slow down when approaching and point out the hazard to the examiner.
As much as it sounds silly since you will be stating the obvious, it will make it easier for the examiner to evaluate your driving skills.
- Don’t Assume the Test is Over Prematurely
Like they say; it ain’t over until the fat lady sings. In your case, don’t assume the driving test is over (even if the examiner tells you otherwise) until you return to the test centre and safely park the vehicle. As long as you’re driving and the examiner is sitting on the passenger seat, every move that you make is being closely monitored.