Getting ready for your driving test can be stressful, so the team here at AXA have created a list of tips to help you prepare for and pass your driving test in Northern Ireland.
Our tips and tricks will help you to feel confident on the day of your test so you can focus on the instructions given by the examiner and pass your driving test with ease!
Practice driving on the test routes
Driving and practising on the driving test routes beforehand will help you to get familiar with the roads so you know the speed limits and where there are any turns, ramps, pedestrian crossings, etc. to take into account.
You can do this with your instructor or with a family member or friend who is over 21 and has had a full driving licence for 3 years or more.
Take a practice test with your driving instructor
It’s a good idea to take a practice test with your instructor as it will also give you a chance to ask them any questions you have about what to expect during a driving test in NI. This will help you to feel more comfortable on the day of your test as you will know what to expect throughout it.
Practice the driving test manoeuvres
When practising focus on the manoeuvres that you struggle with or find difficult to execute, rather than avoiding them. Many people find reverse parking difficult, for example, or parallel parking. Whatever it is that catches you, practicing them will help you to feel more confident if you are asked to do them during your driving test.
Review the Theory Test
Before your driving test, you should review the road safety and road signs content covered in the theory test. This will help refresh your memory of the motoring theory and facts in Northern Ireland, and prepare you for answering any theory questions the driving test examiner may ask you.
Be practical and prepared
Take enough time before your test date to gather all necessary documents and to check that your car is good working order and condition for the test day. We have broken out the requirements for both below.
Documents needed for your driving test are:
- Your theory pass test certificate or confirmation
- Your appointment letter
- Both parts of your photo card driving license
- Your glasses or contact lenses (if needed)
If you plan to use your own car, make sure it’s licensed and that it has the correct car insurance. Your car must meet all legal requirements and be ready and safe to drive.
To prepare your car for the driving test by making sure:
- No warning lights are on
- There is an interior mirror for the examiner
- The L-plates are clearly visible
- The speedometer is working and measures miles and kilometres per hour
- There are headrests and working seatbelts for all seats
- The car has rear seats
- The car is capable of going at least 62.5 mph (100 km/h)
Ensuring your car is in good working order without defects means there’s no risk that the examiner will cancel the test due to the car being unfit. If you have any doubts, you can call or check the test centre website before your test day to make sure you’ve covered their full list of requirements.
Know what to expect
The practical driving test includes an eyesight check and vehicle safety questions, and lasts about 40 minutes. The test will also include:
- A ‘show me’ and a ‘tell me’ vehicle safety question
- A section with a reversing exercise
- An emergency stop exercise
- Independent driving. This is where the examiner will stop giving you step-by-step instructions and show you a diagram of where you’re going. You’ll have to get there following traffic signs and/or a series of directions.
Arrive on time for your driving test
Arriving for your test on time is critical so that the examiner isn’t left waiting for you as it could result in them being frustrated, and have a negative effect on the outcome of your test. What’s more, you could miss your test slot, lose your fee and need to book another test for another time.
So, plan your journey out in advance, giving yourself plenty of time so you can to ensure that you’ll arrive punctually at the test centre for your driving test slot!
Park in a spot that’s easy to drive out of
When you arrive at the driving test centre, parking your car in a spot that’s easy to drive out of. Give yourself a smooth start by reversing into a spot so you can then simply drive forward out of it to begin your test.
Listen to the examiner's instructions
Listen carefully to the examiner’s instructions so you understand exactly what you need to do. However, if at any point you struggle to understand what the examiner is asking you to do, whether it’s a manoeuvre or a turn, you can ask them to repeat the instruction for further clarification.
Don’t feel worried asking them to repeat something, it’s better to make sure you understand what you’re being asked to do rather than making a wrong turn which may result in a minor fault on your test.
Maintain a safe distance from the cars in front
It’s extremely important to respect the distance rules between vehicles to ensure you have enough space to safely stop your car should you need to brake suddenly. Obstacles could appear at any point and by keeping a safe distance, you will be doing your best to protect all involved.
Don’t panic if you make a minor error
If you make a minor error during your driving test you shouldn’t panic as you’ll still have a chance to pass the test! In Northern Ireland, the driving test allows you to make up to 15 minor errors and still pass your test.
Simply try to remain calm and refocus so you can concentrate on completing the rest of the test to the best of your ability.
Be confident during your driving test in NI
When it comes to the day of your driving test it’s important to be confident in your abilities. You’ve completed your driving lessons and the theory test, and you’ve practised driving for many hours. It’s time now to trust your instinct and be confident throughout your driving test.
Best of luck!
