Preparing for the Road Test: Tips for Instructors and Students

Passing the road test is a big milestone in everyone’s lives. It is the final goal to be achieved in any driving school, whether you’re doing a driving instructor course or learning to drive. So, it’s natural to be anxious and excited when you’re finally close to achieving it. Imparting knowledge and honing the skills of new drivers is important, but driving instructors also need to prepare new drivers for the battle that is the road test.

Passing the road test is a driver’s first step towards driving on the road. The practical test assesses their driving skills and the presence of mind while driving. When behind the wheel, they should stay alert, focused, and ready for any hazard. Teaching this vigilance to beginner drivers is the job of a good driving instructor. Here are some tips for instructors and students so that new drivers can clear their driving tests with flying colors.

Tips for Driving Instructors:

To become a driving instructor in Perth, Australia, it is mandatory to complete the TLI41222 — Certificate IV in Driving Instruction certification. And only certified instructors are given the responsibility of training newbies. However, simply completing a driving instructor course in Perth, is not all, you need experience and a set framework to teach new students. Here are some tips for instructors to ensure their students ace the driving test:

Mock Tests:

For aspiring drivers, mock tests are the best tools to sharpen and hone their driving skills. Mock tests simulate real test conditions and help drivers practice driving in a controlled environment without worrying about scoring points or making mistakes. Instructors should take mock tests for aspiring drivers, and give feedback and constructive criticism to help the students improve their skills and become accustomed to the driving test format.

Feedback:

As an instructor, your job is to observe new drivers closely and keep track of their developments and shortcomings. Talk to them regularly and give them constructive feedback on their strengths and weaknesses. Make them practice their shortcomings and answer their queries to help them become better, more responsible drivers.

Common Test Areas:

It’s the instructor’s job to instruct newbie drivers on what to focus on. Make them practice maneuvers commonly assessed during road tests like parallel parking, changing lanes, etc. Ask them to improve wherever necessary and also praise them for doing the right things to build their confidence.

Defensive Driving:

As driving instructors, you should always encourage new drivers to practice defensive driving. Staying safe on the road is of utmost importance. Teach students the principles of defensive driving and help them implement it in their driving as much as possible.

Practice Routes:

Experienced instructors are often aware of the common test routes of their area. If you don’t already know, try to gauge which routes can be used for tests. Familiarize students with these routes so they’re prepared for possible hazards on test day and are not caught off-guard.

Test-Day Procedures:

Driving Instructors also need to teach students the importance of being prepared. Review procedures for the actual test day and share the details with your students. Make them go through the procedures and be aware and ready for the test day.

Address Anxiety:

For aspiring drivers, it is expected to get nervous, and anxious for the test. As their instructor, you should acknowledge and address test-related anxiety. Talk to them, and let them know it’s normal and can be dealt with. Discuss strategies to overcome this anxiety and help them implement it.

Encourage Questions:

Learning and growing are impossible without questions. That’s why as a driving instructor, you should encourage the students to ask questions whenever in doubt. Do your best to create an open, friendly environment where students can question, state their opinions, and learn without prejudice.

Tips for Students:

For aspiring drivers, it’s very important to prepare well for the road test. To pass the test, practice, experience, and perseverance are the key.

Study Traffic Rules:

The first and foremost driving requirement is knowing all the road rules. Do a detailed study of the road signs and traffic signals. You should know what the different signs and signals mean, what the colors signify, and what is the appropriate response when faced with these signs or signals.

Regular Practice:

To pass the test, you need mastery of common driving maneuvers and a good perception to anticipate hazards and respond to them accordingly. And you can become proficient only through constant practice. Practice regularly and consistently to become more confident and hone your skills.

Learn Test-Specific Skills:

Driving tests assess your skills in driving as well as hazard perception. There will be certain specific skills that drivers are commonly judged for, like parallel parking, etc. Discuss with your instructor about skills that are usually judged for the road test and practice them regularly. Having mastery of skills specific to the road test will help you be confident and better prepared for the test.

Simulate Conditions:

Discuss with your instructor to practice in various test conditions. You can do mock tests to simulate conditions similar to the test day. Get honest feedback from your instructor and make changes in your driving accordingly.

Stay Calm:

Staying focused and relaxed is also an important factor test officials will judge you on. You can use strategies to focus better and practice mindfulness to control your anxiety.

Follow Instructions:

During the driving test, stay alert and aware of what the test instructors are saying. You might miss important information if you’re woolgathering. Stay sharp and focused, listen carefully, and follow the test officer’s instructions precisely.

Defensive Driving:

Defensive driving is important in learning to drive safely and by the rules. And it’s especially important to clear the road test. Learn defensive driving techniques like keeping a safe distance, etc., and apply these principles in your driving as much as possible.

Review Routes:

If you’re well aware of the test route or even familiar with the area of the test center, you will be able to anticipate the hazards better and drive more confidently during the test.

Vehicle Readiness:

Before you appear for the exam, make sure you use a vehicle that is in good condition. You should choose a vehicle you’re familiar with and check it thoroughly a week before the test to make sure everything is working smoothly.

Get Rest:

Last but not least, take a good rest the night before the test. A good night’s sleep means you’re calmer and more focused on the test.

Conclusion

When it comes to road tests, being prepared is half the battle. With the above tips, both students, as well as instructors from reputed institutions like AORS, can prepare well for the road test and come one step closer to getting their driving license.

Source Link