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Tips for Passing Your Class 7 Road Test

by Mojan Farshchi – Carson Graham Secondary, North Vancouver BC May 21, 2009

There is something acutely surreal about the moment you know you’ve failed your driving test. You’re sitting with sweaty hands clenched around the steering wheel, your heart racing, thinking, “did that really just happen to me?” Speaking from experience, I know it can feel like you just ran over your own confidence, but remember that you can just try again in 14 days. Luckily, some never have to experience this and pass on their first try. So whether it’s your first time with an examiner or otherwise, here is some advice to help you attain that beautiful, freedom-granting N sign.

1. Take a deep breath and relax
Think of the road test as your chance to prove to the examiner how safely you can operate a vehicle. The better you can control your nerves, the more smoothly you’ll be able to drive.

2. Watch those left turns
Left turns can be a little unnerving, especially in high traffic. Take your time: the traffic light is not a time bomb. If necessary, remain behind the light until it turns yellow (especially if a car that is trying to turn left on the opposite side of the street is blocking your view of oncoming traffic).

3. Don’t forget to right shoulder check
When you’re changing lanes, this may be the obvious thing to do, but it somehow tends to slip from the mind when you’re turning right in a void-of-life neighborhood. Get in the habit of always checking; ICBC has a strict three-strikes-and-you’re-out rule.

4. Don’t be shy when parallel parking
For many, this is the most difficult part of the exam. Again, taking your time is key. If you back up or position your car awkwardly, don’t give up! Straighten yourself out and try again.

5. Confirm directions if doubtful
If you’re unsure where the examiner wants you to take the next turn, just ask. This is an easy way to help you keep focused, calm, and confident.


Need tips to pass your Alberta road test?

Comments (10)
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More tips

Submitted by j9 on Thu, 07/08/2010 - 17:23.

Here are some more helpful hints:
http://www.youthink.ca/yt/features/youthink/tips-passing-your-road-test-bc

As someone who failed twice

Submitted by isabelajvera on Mon, 04/19/2010 - 17:19.

As someone who failed twice before finally getting my license, I know how nerve-racking Class 7 road tests can be. The key is just to relax- most of the examiners are not out to get you, and are aware that you are probably nervous.
Another important tip is to really watch the road signs- during one of my tests, I was instructed to make a right turn. I noticed just in time the "No right on red sign" and waited until it was green to make my move. You can fail for disobeying traffic signs, so make sure you're observing them and following their instructions.

Good tips- got anymore?

Submitted by evab on Mon, 03/29/2010 - 17:39.

Good tips- got anymore?

Driving Tips

Submitted by jac.seto on Mon, 03/22/2010 - 17:32.

Definitely some ones to keep in mind--especially for those nervous drivers! You will always drive better when your calm, so I'd keep that first tip at the top of my mind when I'm going for my road test.

another tip

Submitted by gumiibear on Mon, 02/22/2010 - 17:48.

These are really good tips. Another tip is to always make sure that you're reading the road signs. When you are entering a neighbourhood, nobody will be telling you to slow down your speed. You have to always be aware of where you are when you're driving. That is essential if you want to pass your driving test.

Thanks for the tips! I

Submitted by smandagie on Mon, 02/15/2010 - 18:59.

Thanks for the tips! I definitely need to work on my right shoulder checking and my blind spots. Hopefully these tips will help me for my upcoming N exam!

These are really great tips

Submitted by christiny. on Mon, 01/11/2010 - 18:09.

These are really great tips and I'll be sure to keep them in mind when I test for my N. I haven't even gotten my L yet, but I know that the most important thing for me would to be to read through the book thoroughly and just practice, practice, practice. Practicing essentially gives you the KEY to passing your test, plus you have an excuse to drive yourself places. I'd say that's a pretty sweet deal.

Don't forget to look over

Submitted by kpollon on Mon, 11/16/2009 - 18:26.

Don't forget to look over your driving book. Some of the things you need to know how to do might not be something you've had to deal with. Watch out for those emergency vehicles, they sneak up on you if your to focused on all the little things.

These are great tips for

Submitted by Dystel on Mon, 11/09/2009 - 19:26.

These are great tips for people taking their road test. As someone who had to take it twice, I'll add that you should remember to watch out for the obvious things. It's fine to fret over whether or not your parallel parking is adequate, or you're doing shoulder checks every time you turn. Just don't forget to let that bus pullout or watch traffic signs. It's three strikes you're out for minor offenses, but don't get so caught up that you forget to watch out for the REALLY important stuff.

To pass or not to pass?

Submitted by nikidavis on Mon, 10/19/2009 - 19:17.

When it comes to your driver's test you're filled with nerves and anxiety and now that the system is so backed up and you have to wait months before you can get in for your next test if you don't pass, everyone wants to pass their first time round. Those preparing for their test should keep these tips in mind to help them stay calm and focused going into and during their drivers test.

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