By Trisha Berendt, eHow Contributor1. Practice makes perfect, even when driving a car.
Attempting a driver's road test is not only stressful, but it also costs money. This can really add up if you keep failing the test. According to the New York State Department of Motor Vehicles, most people pass their test on the first or second try, especially if they prepared ahead of time. Doing well on your driver's road test will give you a license so you can drive whenever you want without having another adult present.
2. Before you take your driver's road test, make sure that you are fully prepared.
Practice as often as possible using your driver's permit, a familiar car and an adult with a driver's license. Even better, use the car that you know you'll be using during your test. Although it is illegal to practice driving in the official DMV road test area in New York state, for example, practice driving in many other areas. Test out your driving on one-way streets as these might come up during your road test. Also practice changing lanes, keeping a consistent speed and following other cars at a safe distance. Spend time learning parallel parking and corner backing--you'll do these during your road test.
Wait until you feel confident in your own driving ability before trying the driver's road test. The more practice you have before the test, the better the chance you have of passing it on your first try.
Relaxation and Confidence
3. Stress and anxiety can hinder your road test results.
If you're nervous about the outcome, you may be so focused on these feelings that you might miss a stop sign or avoid looking in your rear-view mirror before backing up. Once you're in the car with the person conducting the driver's test, sit in the driver's seat, close your eyes and breathe deeply. Once you're ready and relaxed, begin the driver's test by adjusting your seat and mirrors and putting on your seatbelt. Make sure to focus on your surroundings during your test rather than your inner thoughts. This will keep you relaxed and aware until the end of the test.
Gentle Driving Tips
4. As you drive through the road test, use gentle driving maneuvers.
Before you stop at a stop sign or light, stop slowly so the car doesn't jerk once it's completely stopped. Don't make any jerking motions with the steering wheel, either. If the testing supervisor tells you to take a left, assess your surroundings and turn the steering wheel slowly once you have ensured that it's safe to turn. Obey the speed limit at all times unless stopping or turning.
Keep your eyes out for pedestrians and other drivers. Some driver's test areas have several drivers testing at once. Keep your eyes on them and follow proper procedure for turning, yielding and stopping at crosswalks and stop signs. Do as your test supervisor tells you. If he asks you to parallel park, don't argue the case or ignore him. He needs to see your capabilities in order to give you the proper score.
