Rite of Passage—Why You Should Drive Yourself to Your Driving Test

It’s understandable why you might not want to drive yourself to the driving test.

It’s a big day, you have a licensed driver, i.e., a parent or a sibling towing along, and you’re already ramped up with nerves. Why make the situation difficult by getting into the driver’s seat?

The truth?

According to the instructors at the Houston-based Champions Driving School, if you want to become a better driver and ace that driving test, taking yourself to the test site is the best decision you can make!

What are the Benefits of Driving Yourself to the Test?

In simple words, you get rid of the nerves and you become more confident behind the wheel.

You have a trusted passenger beside you, you’re well-trained to drive correctly, and you’re gaining more experience driving as you make your way to the site. Not only does this allow you to get used to driving, but it also makes you less prone to making mistakes during the test.

Consider it as a practice run before the final course. You’re driving around, checking all your mirrors, following all the road signs. Come test time, this is what you’ll have to show your examiner. By the time you’ll arrive at the site, these habits will have already become second nature, so you won’t even have to remind yourself during the test.

What Should I Be on the Lookout For?

When driving to your driver’s test, think about all the details you’ve learned so far.

Handling your brake lights, turning your signal lights, operating the doors, the rear-view mirrors and side-view mirrors, the emergency brake—if you’re taking your own car for the test, you’ll want to be sure everything is in proper working condition. Otherwise, the test will be delayed. Use this time to get the hang of things, where each component is located and what the fastest path is to access them.

But, if you’re going to use your examiner’s car for the test, just take this time to improve your driving instincts on yours. Go about the block one or two times, so you can handle driving on the roads better. Use this time to perform practice what will be expected from you during the test, like parking or making turns.

Taking the Test

If you feel like you’re not ready to take the test though, don’t hesitate to tell your examiner straightaway.

At Champions Driving School in Houston, students are encouraged to be very open and clear about their driving abilities. It’s their safety and that of others on the line there. So, if you’re worried about your DPS road test, talk to your examiner about it.

If not, take deep breaths when driving and accept that you’re driving well. It’s all about experience and confidence when it comes to acing your tests!