Pass Your Road Test And Get Your License On The First Try

By Michelle Riley

Though you may already have passed the written test and racked up a few hours of behind-the-wheel experience, the last hurdle still remains: your road exam. It's said that half of all drivers taking the test for the first time fail - but why leave it to chance? Keep reading for the time-tested advice and tricks that will bolster your odds of leaving the DMV with a shiny new drivers license and a big smile on test day.

These are the ingredients for success:

- Practice

- Making sure you know your state's driving laws

- Being confident

Driving experience is essential; that's how you'll get the assurance and know-how that comes only with time. Make sure you feel comfortable just sitting behind the wheel. Once you have got a pretty good idea of how to park, turn, and deal with intersections, you're on the right track.

In the days leading up to your test, check the signals and lights of the car you plan to drive to ensure everything is in proper working order - so they'll let you even take the examination. If it's not the same vehicle you did most of your practice in, take it out for a few spins until you're absolutely comfortable driving it, since each car maneuvers a little differently.

If you have picked up any "special" habits over the course of your driving experience, lose them! Beware of lazy or sharp turns, one-handed driving, not stopping completely for stop signs/red lights, etc. Of course safety comes first on the road, but especially so on exam day. Your examiner will be watching you, so drive carefully and keep these guidelines in mind:

- Stay a little under the speed limit (to keep an ear out for the instructor)

- Brake and accelerate gently

- Keep a look out for and obey ALL signs

- Signal every lane change and turn

- Use your mirrors frequently (much more than normal, even if you feel silly)

- Always turn to check your blind spot when changing lanes (important!)

- Follow cars at a safe distance

- No cell phone calls or texts when driving!

These are the main things that your examiner will be watching for, so take your road test with the objective of showing him/her what a safe, vigilant driver you are. Even if you make a small mistake or two - which you probably will, and most everyone does - don't let it faze you.

Come test day, if you're feeling intimidated by your examiner, this trick might help: pretend he or she is a (strict, overly demanding.. middle-aged? balding?) pal who's just giving you directions to a party. Anything that works! And in case you're still anxious or overwhelmed on the big day: pause, breathe deep, and trust yourself and all the effort you've put into practicing. You can pass! Good luck - now go earn your freedom!

About the Author:

Michelle earned her drivers license after tons of practice, and can help you get yours, too. Read all about it and check out drivers ed: the game at http://www.driversed-game.com.