Many of us wonder how to effectively pass the driving test. Of course, we can approach such an exam only after completing a specialized preparatory course. During the course, we learn traffic regulations and take practical classes preparing us for the practical driving test.
Only after completing the required course can we go to the Voivodeship Road Traffic Center (WORD), where a two-part examination takes place.
Theoretical Driving Test
Current driver examination regulations require future road users to have a good knowledge of traffic law. Additionally, the tests include questions about the car’s construction and its essential equipment. Among the questions, there are also those concerning first aid or the dimensions of certain vehicle components. Unfortunately, questions are assigned randomly, and we never have a guarantee whether we will receive the easiest ones or those that are more difficult.
To pass the driving test, we should primarily be very good at determining the order of vehicles at intersections. The number of possible combinations is enormous, and it still does not reflect the complexity of all situations that may occur on the road. Nevertheless, mastering the skill of quickly assessing the right of way is extremely important and will not only help you pass the driving test efficiently but also allow you to drive safely. After all, that is the main goal.
Practical Driving Test
After passing the theoretical part of the exam, it is time for the practical part. For years, it has been divided into two sections: one conducted on the maneuvering yard and the other involving driving in the city. A common practice among driving test candidates is choosing smaller examination centers where traffic is lighter and it is easier to cope with the practical part of the test. This is not always a beneficial solution. It results from the fact that we often choose smaller cities hoping that we will manage their streets without difficulty. However, if we do not live there daily, we may face an unpleasant surprise.
Examiners know the street network very well and know which intersections or road sections may cause greater difficulties for candidates. Without thoroughly knowing the area, it may happen that we miss a sign or a line, and the result is easy to predict — such an exam will not be passed. Therefore, when choosing the WORD center where we will take the exam, it is better to think carefully. Sometimes a larger but more familiar city will be a better choice.
Driving in the City
During the practical driving test, we must remember not only traffic regulations. First of all, if we wear glasses or contact lenses, we must have them with us. Their absence means we will not be allowed to take the exam.
Next, we must pay attention to many other elements. Among other things, during reversing maneuvers—whether on the maneuvering yard or while driving in the city—we must look through the rear window.
Even if we are masters of using mirrors, we must look through the rear window. Relying only on mirrors is considered a mistake and may lead to the premature termination of the exam.
While driving in the city, we must remember to be decisive. Yes, we must listen to the examiner’s instructions, but we should keep in mind that their goal is to assess our caution and our ability to adapt to road conditions. Therefore, we must pay close attention to road signs and execute the examiner’s instructions not immediately after receiving them, but when it is possible and safe to do so.
If we hear that we are to turn right, it does not mean we should turn immediately, but only when it is possible. This is a situation that very often ends with the termination of the driving test when the candidate tries to perform the maneuver as quickly as possible in a place where it is not allowed.
We must carefully watch for one-way street signs, where slightly different turning rules apply than on two-way roads.
A nightmare for many drivers are the so-called “green arrows,” which allow a conditional turn at intersections when the red light is on for the main direction of travel. The most common mistake is failing to stop before such a signal. It is our obligation, which not only driving test candidates but also experienced drivers often forget.
Without stopping at a conditional turn, we are unable to assess whether pedestrians are crossing the road. This leads to dangerous situations that may end tragically. Stopping before the green arrow is therefore our duty. At the same time, we cannot wait there indefinitely. If no pedestrians are crossing and there are no vehicles to which we must yield, we should start moving and smoothly change direction. Waiting too long or missing the conditional turn signal may result in the termination of the driving test.