Driving tests put pressure on your nerves whether you are a beginner or an expert driver in another country. The first hurdle can be fulfilling the state-specific requirements of securing a driving license. Like all other states of the USA, New York has distinct driving test requirements. Therefore, you need to know them first before going ahead with a plan. These tests are usually expensive; therefore, most people try hard to pass them on the first attempt, which can be tricky, especially if you are unfamiliar with the bustling city roads or are a beginner.
Get a learner’s permit
Before attempting a test, ensure you have a New York State learner’s permit. If you don’t have one, then go and get one. For a learner’s permit, you need to contact the DMV office and get the license for yourself. Unless you have a learner’s permit, you cannot appear for the test.
The mandatory Pre-Licensing course
In New York, the Pre-Licensing Course, also known as a Driver’s Education course, is mandatory. Therefore, you must show your original Pre-Licensing Course Certificate to be eligible for a driving test. Copies are not accepted.
This course is compulsory for all aspiring to appear for the test. It is a course that is DMV-approved. It involves standardized classroom teaching and provides the knowledge one needs as a new driver. It also teaches best practices and safety.
If someone tries to attempt a New York State road test without the certificate, they will not be allowed to do the test. However, the good news is that most driving schools spread across the New York state offer this course every weekend.
For those who are students, you need to have a Student Certificate of Completion (MV-285) for the driving test. Fortunately, high schools and colleges have the facilities to secure this certificate. In addition, if you are under 18, you need to have a Certification of Supervised Driving (MV-262) completed by your parent or guardian.
A companion is a must
When you go for the test, ensure that someone with a valid driver’s license accompanies you to operate the test vehicle. This person must be at least 21 years old.
Secure a test vehicle
The vehicle you will use for the test must be registered and insured and has a current inspection sticker. You can hire cars from authentic car dealers if you don’t own a car. All you need to do is a quick search on the Internet.
To be considered for a test drive, a vehicle must fulfill some criteria, including operational seat belts, working windshield wipers, and headlights. In addition, the front passenger seat belt area must be free of trash, and the front passenger door must open from inside the vehicle. Last but not least, the car must be clean.
Don’t compromise on practice
Practice is the key to success in the test. A lot of practice behind the wheel is needed. You need at least 40 hours of practice before you plunge into the driver’s test. Driving should be like any other habit—effortless, which can only come if you practice. Muscle and memory coordination is the key. You also need to focus on theory or written examination while practicing for the practical test. You can better prepare yourself for the written driving exam by acquiring the PDF Guide from Testquestions.org.
Concentrate on driving smooth
On the test day, focus on driving smoothly. No matter what action you are performing, make it look smooth and easy. Showing your comfort behind the wheel is a sign of confidence that examiners appreciate. As said earlier, practice can give you the confidence and calmness to react appropriately to different road conditions.
Watch the speed
You must neither drive too fast nor too slow. Both indicate you are nervous and lack confidence. Your choice of speed should be based on the road condition, not your state of mind. For example, New York City has high traffic. It will help if you watch the lights and speed limits and maneuver your driving performance.
Look into the direction you are driving
Examiners want to see how you manage yourself while you drive. Be careful. Always look in the direction you are going. If you are backing up, look behind. If you are forging ahead, look straight; if you are turning, make sure to see both sides of your shoulder.
Watch out for the brake use
Be careful with the brake use. A sudden jerk is not a good sign. You must brake smoothly and maintain a safe distance from the vehicle before you.
Maintain the lane
Changing lanes is not considered a good practice. So, stay on the road you are. Change only when necessary; otherwise, not. Here, your discretion is tested, so be cautious.
Learn to stop correctly
At the stop sign, ensure you stop the vehicle before the white line. Again, stopping smoothly and not with a bump or jerk would be best.
