How to Stay Calm for a Driving Test

Taking a driving test can be a stressful time for many and unfortunately, with stress come mistakes. By preparing well and taking a few calming measures before and during your test you can greatly increase your chances of passing.

  • Prepare for the test. Make sure you have taken an adequate number of lessons and that you know all the rules of the road. If you feel uncertain, this is likely to make you panic during your driving test.

  • Sleep well the night before your test, as this will put your body in a relaxed state.

  • Turn up on, or ahead of, time. If you're cutting things fine, you'll start to worry about being on time and that anxiety will carry over to your test.

  • Release nervous energy in a discreet way. Chewing gum is one way to do this or tapping your thumbs on the steering wheel. Whatever you do, make sure it doesn't distract from your driving or produce unwanted consequences--for example, tapping your foot may prevent you from braking in time.

  • Breathe deeply. Take a few deep breaths before you start and at any pause in your driving. This increases the amount of oxygen that gets to your brain, meaning you can think more clearly and remain relaxed.