What do driving instructors look for?
This is a question that many people ask themselves when they are learning to drive. In order to become a safe and competent driver, it’s important to understand what the instructor is looking for – that’s why we will discuss some of the key things driving instructors assess when you are taking your driving test!
Ability to control the car
This is one of the most important things that instructors look for. They want to see if you can control the car in different situations, which includes being able to stop smoothly, turn corners correctly and park safely.
Obedience to the law
Driving instructors will also be looking to see if you know and follow the rules of the road. This means testing your knowledge on things like speed limits, giving way and using your indicators correctly. In Victoria, this could also mean not using your mobile phone while driving, not drinking while driving and always wearing a seatbelt.
Confidence behind the wheel
Another thing that instructors look for is your confidence behind the wheel; being able to drive without feeling nervous or scared. It also includes being able to deal with different road and traffic conditions calmly. Here, confidence doesn’t mean driving fast or taking risks. It is about being able to control the car and yourself in different situations.
Scanning techniques
When you are driving, it is important to constantly scan the road for hazards, like looking ahead, behind and to the sides of the car regularly – and your driving instructor wants to see that you are doing this so that you can react to any potential dangers on the road.
Attitude to driving
Your attitude is also something that the instructor will be assessing. They will look at whether you are relaxed and confident behind the wheel, or if you seem tense and nervous. It’s important to remain calm while driving, as this can help you to make good decisions on the road.
Decision-making skills
Making good decisions is an important part of driving, especially when it comes to things like knowing when to change lanes, overtake other vehicles and turn corners. That’s why your driving instructor will want to see that you can make these decisions quickly and confidently.
Hazard awareness
This is another important part of your learning experience and covers being able to identify potential hazards on the road and knowing how to deal with them. It also includes things like being aware of other vehicles, pedestrians and animals on the road.
Communication skills
When you are driving, it’s important to be able to communicate with other road users, which often includes non-verbal communication like using your indicators and headlights correctly. It also means being able to communicate with the instructor if you are having any problems, and is something that you will be assessed for.
Ancillary controls
These are the controls on the car that are not used all the time like windscreen wipers, headlights and demisters. When you are taking driving lessons ahead of your test, your instructor wants to see that you know how to use these controls correctly.
Mistake management
Everyone makes mistakes when they are learning to drive. That’s why the instructor will be looking to see how you deal with them, and it’s not just limited to being able to recover from a mistake quickly and safely. Your driving instructor will also help you to identify and correct any mistakes that you make.
Speed management
The way you manage your speed is another thing that the instructor will be looking at. This includes being able to drive at the correct speed for the conditions and knowing when to slow down. It is also important to be able to accelerate smoothly so that you can maintain a safe following distance from the car in front.
Nail your driving exam with the support of professionally trained driving instructors!
Driving instructors want to see that you know the rules of the road and that you are confident and calm behind the wheel. They also want to see that you can make good decisions quickly and that you are aware of potential hazards on the road. If you can demonstrate all of these things to a high degree, then you will be well on your way to passing your driving exam.
Looking for a driving school in Melbourne? Look no further than Hi-Way Driving School – our experienced and professional driving instructors help you to become a confident and safe driver. Get started today!
Hi-Way Driving School proudly offer automatic and manual driving lessons to the local residents of Bundoora, Eltham, Greensborough, Craigieburn, Diamond Creek, Doreen, Macleod, South Morang and surrounding suburbs.
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