Getting Out of Your Head During a Driving Test

Ideally, when you are getting into the car to start your driving test you will have a clear head and be focussed on the task at hand, to the exclusion of all others. However, we know this isn’t always possible, so here are a few of the more common ways people get stuck inside their own head during a driving test and some way to get around them.

Trying to Please Others

It is important to remember that you are learning to drive in order to benefits you and, while the driving instructor is there to help you, you’re doing it for them. It’s not uncommon for learner drivers to try too hard to please the driving examiner during their test.

Ideally, you want the examiner to be pleased with your performance in the car, but they are ultimately only interested in determining if you have learned and practiced enough to be a safe driver. Worrying about each and every little thing just puts you under more stress and makes it harder for you to concentrate.

The Examiner Wants You to Fail

There is an odd conspiracy theory going around that driving test examiners “want” students to fail from the start, or that they have quotas of drivers who can pass, and fail everyone else. This is clearly untrue.

Most examiners all want the practical exam experience to be as easy and stress-free as is possible for their students. Their number one goal is to do their best to make sure that you are ready to get behind the wheel and drive safely, for your sake and for everyone else on the road.

If a student learner comes in thinking that the examiner has a secret, negative agenda, it puts a barrier of wills and nerves in between the student and passing their test.

Drive in Your Own Way

No two drivers do everything exactly the same. Everyone needs to drive safely and follow all the laws, but some students come in trying to drive like someone else. It’s totally fine to pick up good driving habits from family and friends.

But you shouldn’t try to mimic their exact behaviors and motions. It takes your mind off the road and what you are really trying to do, which is to be fully aware of what’s going on around you and drive safely.

Don’t Get Cocky

Lastly, some learner drivers are overconfident, thinking that they come to their driving lessons ready to go. Everyone starts their lessons at a different skill level. Most have already been practicing a bit.

But our instructors know what it takes to be a safe driver and they also know what the examiners are looking for. Remember, they’ve done this literally hundreds of times. They want to see you pass your exams. They’ll let you know when you are ready, and you should trust them if they caution that you’re not.

Expert Training

The Northwest Driving School and Traffic School provides the Las Vegas community with live driving and traffic classes taught by seasoned instructors. All of our driving instructors have passed background checks, each automobile is DMV safety-approved and every member of the Northwest family is committed to providing excellent drivers ed and behind the wheel instruction.

At Northwest, you can expect to find outstanding classes, both on campus and behind the wheel, that are engaging, fact-filled, entertaining and geared toward success. We make no bones about it, we believe that Northwest provides the best driving lessons in Las Vegas, no matter your age or background. We are proud of the fact that 98% of our students pass their test on the first try. Call us at (702) 403-1592 to start your driving adventure with one of our expert instructors.

Written by:
Rich Heinrich
Master Instructor, Emeritus