DMV Wants You to Pass
Many people take their behind-the-wheel drive test when they have not sufficiently prepared, practiced enough, or practiced the right way. The DMV examiner will ride with you only to make sure that you can drive safely and obey traffic laws.
Your drive test will last about 20 minutes. The test consists of basic actions you will encounter while driving, such as:

• Left and right turns
• Stops at controlled/uncontrolled intersections
• Straight line backing
• Lane change
• Driving in regular street traffic

Preparing for Your Drive Test

• Get enough practice. Some drivers need more practice than others. Minors (under 18 years old) must complete 50 hours of behind-the-wheel training (10 hours must be night driving) before taking a drive test. When you practice, pretend you are taking a drive test. Ask your accompanying driver to calmly point out your mistakes. Ask questions about driving situations that confused you. When you practice, try to correct any driving errors you made before. The DMV examiner is there to ensure you demonstrate that you can handle your vehicle in regular traffic situations, not to trick you. During your drive test, the examiner will note how you obey the rules of the road and traffic signs and/or signals. They will note other areas in which you may need improvement.
• Practice safe driving tips. To improve your driving skills:
  • Steer smoothly at all times.
  • Accelerate smoothly. Do not rev the engine or make it stall.
  • Stop the vehicle gently. Start braking well ahead of where you must stop to avoid sudden movement. Know where to stop. Be aware of crosswalks. If your view is blocked at a crosswalk, move forward carefully and look both ways before entering the intersection.
  • Be in the correct gear. Do not grind the gears. Do not coast to a stop.
  • Always obey the posted speed limits. If needed, reduce your speed for weather, road, and other traffic conditions. Remember to turn on your headlights if you need to use your windshield wipers in poor weather conditions.
  • Follow at a safe distance. Use the 3-second rule. Increase your following distance in bad weather or poor visibility.
  • Know what the traffic signals mean and obey them at all times.
  • Use the proper lane and start a turn from the correct lane into the correct lane.
  • Signal for all lane changes and turns.
  • Always look for potential hazards (scan) and check your mirrors frequently.
  • Always look over the proper shoulder before making lane changes or pulling away from the curb.
  • Drive defensively. Anticipate another driver’s errors.

After Your Drive Test

Possession of a DL means you have met the drive test requirements. However, in everyday driving you will have to deal with many situations you did not encounter on your drive test. The best way to deal with unexpected situations is to always use the same safe driving habits and responsible attitude you demonstrated on your drive test.