Common Reasons Why You May Fail the DMV Exam

1Pass the written/computerized knowledge test at the DMV

Here are the common reasons why you may fail the DMV exam. Make sure that you don’t commit the same mistakes:

1. Skipping the Driver’s Manual

If you don’t read the driver’s manual, you will definitely fail the exam. This manual is your primary source of the material. The things that will come out in the exam will be taken from the manual. Takers who do not spend much time reading the driver’s manual are also likely to fail the test.

In studying the manual, you don’t have to read every single word. Just familiarize yourself with its contents and memorize or focus more on important topics.

2. Not taking a practice test

Another mistake that you should avoid is skipping practice tests. Taking a practice DMV written test is as important as studying your driver’s manual. It’s your way of assessing your theoretical knowledge. It will give you an idea of whether you’re ready to take the actual test or not. When you take practice tests several times, you will be able to retain what you have read better.

3. Not understanding the most common signs

A huge portion of the DMV test covers common signs and signals. This is especially true in some states. Hence, don’t make the mistake of not spending sufficient time studying the common signs.

You should memorize the common road signs as they are usually the easiest part of the exam. This means that if you do well in this part, you will increase your chances of passing the exam. Tip-in memorizing signs and signals are to visualize them: the shapes, colors, and other common features.

4. Having a negative attitude towards the exam

Attitude has something to do with one’s learning. Your attitude as a driver will affect how you do in the exam. If you’re a careless driver who does not respect road signs and the rules of the road, then that will affect how you answer the exam. Having a positive attitude, like vigilance, carefulness, and thoroughness, can help you do well in the exam.

5. Cramming

Studying at the last minute is a habit you should break when taking the DMV exam. You can’t just pull off an overnighter to study everything there is you need to know in preparation for the exam. Taking the test takes time and a lot of reading and practice. If you cram, there’s a high likelihood that you will fail the test.

Another negative thing about cramming is that you will not be physically and mentally in great condition on the day of the exam. Since you’ve spent the whole night reading and studying, you will be physically and mentally drained during the actual test. When you’re physically tired and are deprived of sleep, it’s harder for you to focus. Hence, never cram.

6. Reading without comprehending

Reading is an important part of studying. However, if you simply scan the pages and read the words without making an attempt to get to know the lessons better, you’re just wasting time. Make memory aids by writing down notes, highlighting important parts of your reading, and so on. Just do whatever works for you. Find active ways of retaining as much information as you can without overdoing it.

7. Putting too much pressure on yourself during the day of the exam

When you’re too pressured and tensed during the actual test, it becomes difficult for you to focus. When you’re not focused, you cannot grasp the questions fully and cannot answer them as best as you can.

Try to relax and stay calm during the actual test. Take a deep breath and trust in what you know. However, don’t be overconfident too. Just answer the questions to the best of your knowledge and ability. As long as you’ve prepared for the test, you have nothing to worry about.

8. Being overconfident

Just because you know how to drive does not mean you can easily pass both the DMV written exam and the road test. Knowing how to drive is not enough. You need to know the traffic laws and other pertinent laws and rules. It’s important to know the do’s and don’ts and the best practices when driving. In other words, there’s no better way to pass the exam than to read the materials and study them as hard as you can. Take the test seriously.

2Pass the Driving (Road) Test

The DMV written test is just one aspect of the exam. When you pass the written test, there is one more test that you need to pass. This is the road test, where you will be graded according to your driving ability.

Some of the common mistakes that exam-takers fail at in the road test are the following:

1. Not fastening the seat belt

Forgetting to fasten your seat belt can get you a failing mark. To avoid this mistake, make it a habit to fasten your seat belt whenever you are behind the wheel. Do this until it becomes an instinct.

2. Making incomplete stops

Another common mistake is failing to complete a stop when necessary. It’s very important that you follow all the traffic signs. Remember that a rolling stop at a stop sign is considered illegal. Never make the same mistake during the road test, or else, you’ll get a failing grade.

3. Overspeeding or driving too slow

Driving too fast and driving too slow can both get you into accidents. Both can be dangerous. Yes, even driving too slow. It’s always better to be driving at a safe speed. Be conscious about the imposed speed limit and where you’re driving. You cannot drive fast at an intersection and you cannot drive slow on freeways.

4. Improper braking

Many people think that as long as they use brakes, they will be graded well by the examiner. This is a common mistake because there is such a thing as improper braking. Braking abruptly can be dangerous and hence, can get you a negative mark on your scorecard. Brake smoothly and consistently.

5. Improper lane changing

This is another common mistake. If you fail to safely and properly switch from one lane to another, the examiner will mark down points from your scorecard. Always be cautious when switching lanes. Check for a blind spot and glance over the rearview mirror and the side mirrors before you switch.

6. Following too closely

When you follow too closely to the vehicle in front of you, you are putting yourself and others in danger. This can result in you failing the exam as well. Hence, always keep a safe distance from the other vehicles when on the road A three-second distance is, as a rule of thumb, considered safe and proper.

7. Not knowing what to do at four-way stops

Many drivers commit this mistake. Hence, familiarize the do’s and don’ts when at a four-way stop. As a rule, those who came first must go first. If all vehicles come at the intersection at the same time, then those on the right side must go first.

8. Car failure

Having car troubles during the actual road test is a big no-no. It can result in a failing mark. It’s important that you check the condition of your car at least a week prior to the exam. Everything must work perfectly and in great condition: the brake, brake lights, headlights, windshield, and so on.