Tips to help you on the day of your driving test

By Riders

August 18th 2020

Tips and Tricks to Pass Your Driving Test in the UK

Passing your driving test is a significant milestone that opens up a world of independence. However, it can also be a source of anxiety for many learners. To help you prepare and boost your confidence, here are some essential tips and tricks to ensure you ace your driving test in the UK.

Understand the Test Structure

The UK driving test consists of two main parts:

The Theory Test: This includes multiple-choice questions and hazard perception.
The Practical Test: You’ll demonstrate your driving skills, including various manoeuvres and road awareness.

Familiarize yourself with each part to reduce surprises on test day.

Practice, Practice, Practice

Regular practice is crucial. Try to:

Book Regular Lessons: Aim for at least one lesson a week with a qualified instructor.
Practice with Family or Friends: If you feel comfortable, get extra practice with someone who has a full driving license.
Drive in Different Conditions: Experience driving in various weather conditions, times of day, and different types of roads.

Master the Manoeuvres

The practical test will include specific manoeuvres like:

Parallel parking
Park in a Bay (either by driving in and reversing out, or reversing in and driving out (the examiner will tell you which you have to do).
Emergency stop
Pull up on the right-hand side of the road, reverse for around 2 car lengths, and then rejoin traffic.
Practice these manoeuvres repeatedly until you feel confident. Use cones or markers if you’re practicing in a safe area.

Know the Highway Code

Make sure you’re familiar with the Highway Code. It contains vital information about road signs, traffic rules, and safe driving practices. Knowledge of the rules will not only help you pass your test but also keep you safe on the road.

Stay Calm and Confident

Nerves can get the best of anyone. Here are a few strategies to stay calm:

Breathe: Take deep breaths before and during the test.
Visualize Success: Imagine yourself passing the test and driving confidently.
Arrive Early: Give yourself plenty of time to get to the test centre, reducing last-minute stress.

Ask Your Instructor for Feedback

Your driving instructor is a valuable resource. After practice sessions, ask for feedback on areas to improve. If you’re consistently struggling with something, address it before the test.

Prepare for the Show Me, Tell Me Questions

You’ll be asked to demonstrate vehicle safety checks. Familiarize yourself with common questions such as:

“Show me how you would check that the brakes are working before starting a journey.”
“Tell me how you would check the oil level.”

Knowing these answers can make a significant difference on test day.

Get to Know the Test Area / Routes

While you can’t predict the exact route you’ll take during your test, many instructors will familiarize you with the test routes in your area. Drive these routes several times, so you feel more comfortable navigating them.

Stay Aware of Your Surroundings

During the practical test, it’s essential to demonstrate good observation skills. Always check your mirrors, signal correctly, and be aware of pedestrians and other road users.

Don’t Rush

It’s natural to feel the pressure, but rushing can lead to mistakes. Drive at a controlled speed and focus on your actions. Remember, it’s better to take your time and do things correctly than to rush and make errors.

Conclusion

Passing your driving test in the UK requires preparation, practice, and a calm mindset. By following these tips and tricks, you’ll enhance your chances of success and gain the confidence needed to become a safe and responsible driver. Good luck!

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Key Maintenance Tips for Owning a New Car in the UK

by DriversGB, on 22nd October 2024

Key Maintenance Tips for Owning a New Car in the UK

Owning a new car is an exciting milestone, offering the promise of reliability and modern features. However, to keep your vehicle in top shape and ensure its longevity, regular maintenance is essential. Here are some key maintenance tips specifically tailored for new car owners in the UK.

1. Follow the Manufacturer’s Service Schedule

Every new car comes with a service schedule recommended by the manufacturer. This schedule outlines when to perform specific maintenance tasks, such as oil changes, filter replacements, and inspections. Adhering to this schedule is crucial for warranty coverage and optimal vehicle performance.

2. Regularly Check Fluid Levels

Fluids play a vital role in your car’s functionality. Make it a habit to check:

Engine Oil: Ensure it’s at the correct level and change it as recommended.
Coolant: Keep an eye on the coolant level to prevent overheating.
Brake Fluid: Low brake fluid can affect your braking performance.
Windshield Washer Fluid: Maintain visibility, especially during rainy weather.

3. Monitor Tyre Health

Tires are your car’s only contact with the road, so regular checks are essential. Look out for:

Tyre Pressure: Check tire pressure monthly and before long trips, ensuring they are inflated to the recommended PSI.
Tread Depth: Use the penny test to ensure your tires have sufficient tread. Replace tires if tread depth is below 1.6mm, the legal limit in the UK.
Alignment and Balancing: If your car pulls to one side or if you notice uneven wear, have your tires aligned and balanced.

4. Keep an Eye on the Battery

Modern cars often have advanced electrical systems that rely on a healthy battery. Check for:

Corrosion: Clean any corrosion on the battery terminals.
Battery Health: If your car struggles to start, consider having the battery tested.

5. Maintain the Exterior and Interior

Your car’s appearance matters, not only for aesthetics but also for long-term value. Regularly wash and wax the exterior to protect the paint from UK weather conditions. For the interior:

Clean Regularly: Remove debris and spills to prevent damage.
Condition Leather Seats: Use appropriate products to maintain leather interiors.

6. Check and Replace Wiper Blades

Good visibility is crucial for safe driving, especially in the UK’s unpredictable weather. Inspect your wiper blades regularly and replace them if they’re streaking or making noise. Generally, wiper blades should be replaced every six months to a year.

7. Don’t Ignore Warning Lights

Modern vehicles are equipped with various warning lights on the dashboard. If a light appears, don’t ignore it. Consult your owner’s manual to determine the issue and address it promptly. Ignoring warning signs can lead to more significant problems down the line.

8. Keep Records of Maintenance

Maintain a detailed log of all services and repairs performed on your vehicle. This documentation can be helpful for future resale and can also ensure you stay on top of routine maintenance.

9. Consider Professional Inspections

Even if your car is new, consider having a professional inspection at least once a year. A qualified technician can catch potential issues that may not be immediately visible to the average driver.

10. Stay Informed About Recalls

Keep an eye on any recalls for your vehicle model. The UK government and manufacturers often ann

The Compulsory Basic Training (CBT) is a mandatory course that must be completed by anyone in the UK who wishes to ride a motorcycle or moped on public roads. The CBT is designed to teach new riders the basic skills and knowledge they need to operate a motorcycle safely. If you are preparing for your CBT, here are some tips to help you get the most out of the experience.

Get familiar with the Highway Code Before starting your CBT, it is important to read the Highway Code thoroughly. This will help you understand the rules of the road and the various signs and signals you will encounter while riding. You can find a copy of the Highway Code online or at most bookstores.
Dress appropriately Make sure you wear appropriate clothing for your CBT. This includes a well-fitted helmet, motorcycle gloves, a motorcycle jacket, sturdy trousers, and boots that provide good ankle support. Avoid wearing loose or baggy clothing that could get caught in the moving parts of the bike.
Get a good night’s sleep The CBT is a physically and mentally demanding course, so it is important to get a good night’s sleep before you start. This will help you stay alert and focused during the training.
Familiarize yourself with the motorcycle controls Before starting the course, spend some time familiarizing yourself with the controls of a motorcycle. This includes the brakes, throttle, clutch, gears, and indicators. You can watch instructional videos online or ask a friend who rides to show you.
Practice balancing on a bicycle If you haven’t ridden a bicycle in a while, it may be helpful to practice balancing on one before your CBT. Balancing is an important skill for motorcycle riding, and practicing on a bicycle can help you develop this skill.
Be prepared for the weather The CBT will go ahead even in poor weather conditions, so make sure you are prepared for rain or cold weather. Bring rain gear or warm clothing if necessary, and make sure your helmet has a visor to protect your face from the rain.
Stay hydrated and nourished It is important to stay hydrated and nourished during the CBT. Bring plenty of water and snacks to keep your energy levels up throughout the day.
Stay focused The CBT is a long day of training, so it is important to stay focused and alert. Listen carefully to your instructor’s instructions and ask questions if you are unsure about anything. Remember, the CBT is designed to teach you the skills and knowledge you need to ride safely, so take the training seriously.
Don’t put too much pressure on yourself. Bare in mind you’re learning a new skill, and you may not get everything straight away. Often, if you’re a new learner, the course will take more than one day to complete – so enter the course with the right mindset, take away the pressure, and you should find the whole process much more enjoyable!

In conclusion, the CBT is an important step for anyone who wants to ride a motorcycle on public roads. By following these tips and taking the training seriously, you will be well-prepared to start your journey as a motorcyclist. Good luck!