Guidance
Nervousness is a natural reaction to tests and exams. And
driving tests are no different.
Driving examiners know this, and they’ll do their
best to help you relax.
Why it’s important to practise ways of managing your nerves
Being able to manage your nerves is a really important skill – and not just for your driving test. You might be nervous the first time you:
• drive in an unfamiliar city on your own
• have to deal with a really complex roundabout
• drive on country roads at night
So learning how to manage your nerves is a vital skill for new drivers.
1 in 10
people who fail the driving test say it was mostly down to nerves
Basic tips to help manage your nerves
Talk to your driving instructor about the ways you might be able to manage your nerves. They’re used to teaching people who are nervous about taking the driving test.
Here are some other basic tips that can help.
1. Plan ahead
Do not take your test when other stressful things are happening in your life, such as college \ university exams.
2. Get a good night’s sleep
Get a few good nights of sleep before your test – you’ll feel more stressed if you’re tired.
3. Avoid caffeine
Avoid too much caffeine before your test: it might make you feel jittery and nervous.
4. Be positive
Focus on passing your test rather than worrying about failing it. Stay in the moment and concentrate, avoid thinking back to what has just happened.