Driving Test: What Not to Do During Your Test

Everyone · Explainer · Updated October 1, 2026 · LearnLife Editorial

What Is a Driving Test and Why Does It Matter?

A driving test is an official evaluation used by state departments of motor vehicles (DMVs) to assess whether a person can operate a vehicle safely and follow traffic laws. It usually includes two parts: a written test covering road rules and signs, and a practical driving test where you demonstrate skills behind the wheel. Passing grants you a driver’s license, legally allowing you to drive independently.

The test matters because driving requires coordination, attention, and knowledge to protect yourself and others. It ensures new drivers meet minimum safety standards before driving unsupervised. For example, if a 19-year-old wants to commute to college, passing the driving test confirms they can handle real-life traffic conditions, obey speed limits, and respond appropriately to road hazards. Without this test, unqualified drivers might risk accidents, injuries, or legal trouble.

Driving tests vary by state but generally assess common skills such as turning, parking, stopping, lane changes, and obeying traffic signs. Understanding the purpose of the test helps you prepare with the right mindset and focus on safe driving habits rather than just memorizing rules.

How Does the Driving Test Work? A Step-by-Step Example

The driving test often starts with a brief vehicle inspection. The examiner might ask you to adjust your seat and mirrors or identify certain controls, such as the windshield wipers or emergency brake. This ensures you know how to operate the car safely.

Next, you’ll take the car onto a predetermined route that includes various driving conditions, such as residential streets, intersections, stop signs, and sometimes highways. The examiner gives instructions like “Turn right at the next intersection” or “Parallel park on the right side of the street.” You must follow these directions precisely while demonstrating safe driving.

For example, if the examiner says, “Make a left turn at the next traffic light,” you should:

1. Signal left well in advance (at least 100 feet before the turn).
2. Check your rearview and side mirrors.
3. Look over your left shoulder to check your blind spot.
4. Slow down smoothly.
5. Yield to pedestrians and oncoming traffic.
6. Make the turn smoothly without cutting corners or drifting into other lanes.

The examiner scores your performance based on safety, control, and adherence to traffic laws. Small mistakes may be noted but not necessarily fail you, while serious errors like running a red light or failing to stop fully usually result in failure.

After completing the route, the examiner provides feedback and tells you whether you passed. If you do not pass, you can schedule a retest after a waiting period.

What Not to Do During Your Driving Test?

Avoiding common mistakes can increase your chances of passing. Here are key behaviors to avoid:

• Not using turn signals: Always signal your intent before turning or changing lanes. For example, if you forget to signal a right turn, the examiner will see it as unsafe and deduct points.
• Failing to check mirrors and blind spots: Before any lane change or turn, glance at your mirrors and look over your shoulder to ensure there’s no vehicle or cyclist in your blind spot.
• Rolling through stop signs or stoplights: Always come to a complete stop, count to one or two seconds, and proceed only when safe.
• Speeding or driving too slowly: Keep speeds within posted limits. For instance, if the speed limit is 25 mph in a residential area, driving at 15 mph may be considered unsafe because it can confuse other drivers.
• Disobeying traffic signals or signs: Running a red light or failing to yield is an automatic fail in most states.
• Making unsafe lane changes: Don’t change lanes abruptly or without checking all mirrors and blind spots.
• Hesitating excessively or panicking: Being overly nervous can cause hesitation that disrupts traffic flow and signals unpreparedness.
• Ignoring examiner instructions: Listen carefully, and if you don’t understand, politely ask for clarification.
• Failing to yield to pedestrians or other vehicles: Yield appropriately, especially at crosswalks and four-way stops.
• Poor parking: Practice parallel parking, backing into spaces, and angle parking. Abrupt stops or hitting curbs will cost points.

By consciously avoiding these errors, you demonstrate responsibility and readiness to drive safely.

Why Does Avoiding These Mistakes Matter to You?

Failing your driving test can delay your independence, job opportunities, or school commute. It also may require extra preparation and retesting fees. More importantly, the test is designed to keep everyone safe on the road. Mistakes like not signaling or failing to check mirrors can cause accidents.

Passing the test builds your confidence in your driving skills. It confirms you understand how to operate a vehicle safely and respond to traffic situations. Those who pass tend to drive more cautiously and responsibly, reducing their risk of crashes and traffic violations.

Imagine a scenario: if you fail because you did not fully stop at stop signs, you’ll need to practice stopping completely and retake the test, which may be weeks later. Meanwhile, you remain dependent on others for rides. Avoiding these mistakes saves time, money, and stress.

What Are Some Related Terms People Often Confuse?

Understanding related terms helps avoid confusion during your preparation:

• Learner’s Permit vs. Driver’s License: A learner’s permit allows supervised driving practice under an adult’s supervision, while a driver’s license permits solo driving.
• Driving Test vs. Road Test: These terms are often used interchangeably but usually refer to the practical behind-the-wheel exam.
• Defensive Driving vs. Driving Test: Defensive driving is a style of safe driving that anticipates hazards; the driving test evaluates your ability to perform basic driving tasks.
• Failing vs. Flunking: Both mean not passing, but “fail” is the formal term used by DMVs.
• Parallel Parking vs. Angle Parking: Both are parking techniques you may be asked to perform; parallel parking involves parking alongside the curb, while angle parking is at an angle in designated spots.

Knowing these terms can help you communicate clearly with instructors and examiners, reducing misunderstandings.

What Should You Do Next to Prepare for Your Driving Test?

Preparation is key. Follow these steps:

1. Study your state’s driver manual carefully: Focus on sections about traffic laws, right-of-way, road signs, and safe driving techniques.
2. Practice driving regularly: Aim for a variety of conditions—day and night, residential and busy roads, parking maneuvers, and highway driving if applicable.
3. Take professional driving lessons: Instructors can teach you proper techniques and correct bad habits before your test day.
4. Use a checklist to prepare your vehicle: Ensure your car’s brakes, turn signals, mirrors, lights, and tires are in good condition.
5. Practice test routes if possible: Some DMVs provide sample routes or areas commonly used for testing.
6. Prepare paperwork and documents: Bring your learner’s permit, proof of insurance, registration, and any required forms.
7. Get a good night’s sleep and eat a healthy meal before the test: Being rested and alert improves concentration.

Following these steps helps reduce anxiety and boosts your chances of passing on the first try. For more detailed checklists and preparation tips, see Driving Test Checklist: What to Prepare and Driving Test Tips to Help You Succeed.

How to Keep Calm and Confident During Your Test?

Nerves are common and can impact your performance, so managing anxiety is crucial. Try the following techniques:

• Deep breathing: Take slow, deep breaths before starting to reduce tension.
• Positive visualization: Imagine yourself driving confidently and passing the test.
• Focus on the moment: Concentrate on one task at a time instead of worrying about the entire test.
• Accept minor mistakes: If you make a small error, don’t dwell; continue driving safely.
• Arrive early: Give yourself time to settle in and familiarize yourself with the testing environment.
• Bring a supportive companion: Having a calm friend or family member drop you off can ease stress.
• Use affirmations: Repeat phrases like, “I am prepared and capable” to boost confidence.

Building confidence through preparation and relaxation helps you demonstrate your best driving skills, even under pressure.

What Should You Do If You Fail the Driving Test?

If you do not pass, don’t be discouraged. Use the experience as a learning opportunity. Here are steps to take:

• Ask for feedback: The examiner will usually tell you what caused failure. Take notes.
• Practice the weak areas: Focus on skills like signaling, stopping fully, or parking.
• Schedule a retest: Check your state’s waiting period and requirements before booking again.
• Consider additional lessons: A few more professional driving sessions can improve your skills.
• Stay positive: Many drivers don’t pass on their first try, but persistence pays off.

Knowing how to respond to failure keeps you motivated and better prepared for the next attempt.

Frequently asked questions

Can I ask the examiner to repeat instructions during the driving test?

Yes, it’s perfectly fine to politely ask the examiner to repeat or clarify instructions if you didn’t hear them clearly. This shows you want to follow directions carefully, which is better than guessing and making a mistake.

What happens if I fail my driving test?

Typically, you must wait a designated period before retaking the test, which varies by state. Use that time to practice the skills where you struggled, and consider professional lessons to improve.

Should I bring my own car to the driving test?

Most DMVs allow you to use your personal vehicle, but it must be insured, registered, and in safe working condition. Check your state’s specific requirements to ensure compliance.

How many mistakes can I make before failing the test?

The number of allowable mistakes depends on your state’s DMV rules. Minor errors may be acceptable, but critical safety mistakes often lead to immediate failure. Contact your local DMV for exact scoring criteria.

Can I take the test in an automatic car if I only know how to drive a manual?

Yes, but if you take the test in an automatic vehicle, your license may be restricted to automatics only. Decide which transmission you want to be licensed for before scheduling your test.

What should I do if I get very nervous before the test?

Practice relaxation techniques such as deep breathing or listening to calming music. Arrive early to get comfortable with the test location. If anxiety feels overwhelming, consider talking to a counselor or trusted adult for support.