Road tests can be sources of depression or joy depending on how many points are tallied at the end of the day. It all comes down to how well you can drive in those seven to ten minutes.
Who cares if you parallel parked perfectly last Friday? If you can't repeat that performance right now, you can kiss your license goodbye forever.
While that may not be true, it certainly seems like reality to most teens. The fear of failure, embarrassment, or disappointment keep plenty of permit-holders from passing on their first try.
Consider this: While you're stressing over what to tell Jack and Jill if you don't pass, the examiner could be giving you important directions. While you're obsessing over the fact that you are being judged, you could back up and over the curb during a parallel park. While its easier said than done, the best thing you can do is relax.
In my experience, adrenaline did not make me drive better but worse. On the day of the test I would crack under pressure and make mistakes that I had never made in practice. I'd return home feeling deflated and certain that I'd never pass. No matter how upset I may have been at the time however, I must admit that the overall effect of those road tests was more positive than negative. During each attempt I learned something new that helped me become the driver I am today.
For example, I learned never to rely strictly on my mirrors and to keep consistent speed during parallel parks. I also learned to exhibit caution without holding up the flow of traffic. The "old me" who took the road test a few months ago could not have handled driving alone. I am confident that the "new me" is up to the challenge.
For that reason, I encourage all permit holders to stay strong. Don't be discouraged if you do not pass on your first try. I assure you that you are not the only person in town who did not pass in one shot. If at first you don't succeed, try and try again. You can only improve from here on out.
Don't worry over what your friends will think. If they are true blue, they'll be nothing but supportive. If you're really that anxious, don't even tell them that you have a test scheduled. If you choose to, keep that information to yourself until you have good news to share.
To those who have already taken a road test and passed, I say congratulations. To those who have yet to take a road test, the best advice I can give you is this "just do your best and everything will be just fine." Keep that in mind and you should be able to settle your nerves. Trust me, all the pain and anxiety will be worth it when you hear the words: "YOU PASSED."
