You already have your learner’s permit, and you’ve been practicing your driving skills for several months now. The next step on your way to becoming an official driver is to get your driver’s license. But first, you’ll need to pass the road test. Many soon-to-be drivers experience anxiety on the days leading up to the road test, but knowing a few things beforehand can give you the confidence you need to pass with flying colors.

How Should I Practice for the Road Test?

In New York, drivers under the age of 18 must have a minimum of 50 hours of supervised practice driving with at least 15 hours driven at nighttime and 10 hours in moderate-to-heavy traffic. As proof, you are required to bring a Certification of Supervised Driving (MV-262) from your parent at the road test. To prepare for the road test, you should practice performing the following maneuvers smoothly: steering, acceleration, braking, and gear shifting. You also have to drive at the appropriate speed, maintain the correct vehicle distance, understand traffic signs, keep your car in the proper lane, and communicate your intentions and react safely to other drivers.

Why Do Aspiring Drivers Fail the Road Test?

Some common mistakes people make include not stopping fully before turning right at intersections or behind demarcation lines at a red light, following vehicles too closely, steering using only one hand, improper lane changes, and not responding correctly to unexpected situations. Some also have trouble following speed limits—either driving too fast or too slow—and parallel parking.

How Can You Ace Your Road Test?

Practice not only provides you with the skills and experience necessary to pass the road test, but it also gives you the confidence that so many new drivers lack. You can start supervised driving at an empty parking lot and have your parents provide you with constructive feedback. You can also enroll in a training course to get professional lessons. The most important thing to focus on is the traffic rules in your area. Learn them by heart and make a habit of following them at all times.

If you need help preparing for a road test, get in touch with Morgan School of Driving in Fairport, NY. This driving school has helped over 400,000 aspiring drivers learn defensive driving since 1943. Their expert instructors offer private driving lessons, pre-licensing classes, and Point and Insurance Reduction Program (PIRP) courses. Call them at (585) 425-2410 or visit their website to learn more.