Difference between revisions of "Pass the Texas Driving Test"
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The Texas driving test is administered by the Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS). If you want a driver's license and you live in Texas, you'll need to first pass this test. It's very common to feel anxious when taking this test, but have no fear. You only need to complete of some preliminary requirements, take the test, and make use of techniques to overcome driving test anxiety. | The Texas driving test is administered by the Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS). If you want a driver's license and you live in Texas, you'll need to first pass this test. It's very common to feel anxious when taking this test, but have no fear. You only need to complete of some preliminary requirements, take the test, and make use of techniques to overcome driving test anxiety. | ||
| − | [[Category:Legal Documents for Driving]] | + | [[Category: Legal Documents for Driving]] |
== Steps == | == Steps == | ||
===Meeting Preliminary Requirements=== | ===Meeting Preliminary Requirements=== | ||
| − | #Complete a course in driver's education. If you are under 25 years old, you'll have to complete a driver's education course before you can even take the driving test. You can begin the course as young as 14, but you won't be able to apply for your learner's permit until you are at least 15.<ref>http://www.txdps.state.tx.us/DriverLicense/documents/drivingtestrequirements.pdf</ref> | + | #Complete a course in driver's education. If you are under 25 years old, you'll have to complete a driver's education course before you can even take the driving test. You can begin the course as young as 14, but you won't be able to apply for your learner's permit until you are at least 15.<ref name="rf1">http://www.txdps.state.tx.us/DriverLicense/documents/drivingtestrequirements.pdf</ref> |
#*If you are over 18 and have a valid license, or if you have a valid license from another state, you won't be required to take a driving portion of the test, though it could be requested by DPS. Those under 18, however, are required to take the test, even with a valid license. | #*If you are over 18 and have a valid license, or if you have a valid license from another state, you won't be required to take a driving portion of the test, though it could be requested by DPS. Those under 18, however, are required to take the test, even with a valid license. | ||
| − | #*There are a few different options available for you driver's training. You could learn at a for-profit driving school, a public school driving program, or a parent taught version, too.<ref>http://www.dmv.org/tx-texas/teen-drivers.php</ref> | + | #*There are a few different options available for you driver's training. You could learn at a for-profit driving school, a public school driving program, or a parent taught version, too.<ref name="rf2">http://www.dmv.org/tx-texas/teen-drivers.php</ref> |
#Fulfill your practice hours. After completing your classroom hours and passing the written exam for your learner's permit, you'll need to put in some practice time. Before your driving test, you'll need to have had your permit for at least six months, practiced at least 30 hours behind the wheel, and turned 16 years old. When you take and pass the test, you get your provisional license. | #Fulfill your practice hours. After completing your classroom hours and passing the written exam for your learner's permit, you'll need to put in some practice time. Before your driving test, you'll need to have had your permit for at least six months, practiced at least 30 hours behind the wheel, and turned 16 years old. When you take and pass the test, you get your provisional license. | ||
| − | #*Provisional licenses are generally for young drivers over the age of 16 but under 18. These licenses have some restrictions until you turn 18, when you will be issued your official license.<ref>http://www.dmv.org/tx-texas/teen-drivers.php#Phase-Two-IntermediateProvisional-License</ref> | + | #*Provisional licenses are generally for young drivers over the age of 16 but under 18. These licenses have some restrictions until you turn 18, when you will be issued your official license.<ref name="rf3">http://www.dmv.org/tx-texas/teen-drivers.php#Phase-Two-IntermediateProvisional-License</ref> |
| − | #Schedule your appointment. Since driving tests are administered by DPS, you'll have to make an appointment at your local DPS office. In most cases, this can be done on the official Texas DPS homepage under the "More Online Services" tab.<ref | + | #Schedule your appointment. Since driving tests are administered by DPS, you'll have to make an appointment at your local DPS office. In most cases, this can be done on the official Texas DPS homepage under the "More Online Services" tab.<ref name="rf1" /> |
#*Choose a time of day that you're alert and at your best. For example, if you're a morning person, you might want to schedule your appointment earlier in the day. | #*Choose a time of day that you're alert and at your best. For example, if you're a morning person, you might want to schedule your appointment earlier in the day. | ||
#*You may want to avoid scheduling your test for rush hour or lunch time. Increased traffic can add unnecessary stress to your test. | #*You may want to avoid scheduling your test for rush hour or lunch time. Increased traffic can add unnecessary stress to your test. | ||
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#*A working speedometer, horn, front and back turn signals, seatbelts, wipers, headlights, brake lights, and taillights. | #*A working speedometer, horn, front and back turn signals, seatbelts, wipers, headlights, brake lights, and taillights. | ||
#*A minimum of one review mirror, either inside or outside the vehicle, and a front passenger door that opens normally both inside and outside. | #*A minimum of one review mirror, either inside or outside the vehicle, and a front passenger door that opens normally both inside and outside. | ||
| − | #*Current registration, inspection, and insurance. Be careful where insurance is concerned. You cannot be listed as an "excluded driver."<ref | + | #*Current registration, inspection, and insurance. Be careful where insurance is concerned. You cannot be listed as an "excluded driver."<ref name="rf1" /> |
===Defeating the Driving Test=== | ===Defeating the Driving Test=== | ||
| − | #Arrive to your appointment early. You never know when traffic or some other unpleasant surprise might cause you to be late. Additionally, feeling rushed to get to your test on time can make you even more anxious. A moment to calm yourself could significantly improve your test results.<ref>http://www.thelifemanagementalliance.com/Psychological/EmotionManagement/AnxietyFear/HurriedRushedOverwhelmedSyndrome.html</ref> | + | #Arrive to your appointment early. You never know when traffic or some other unpleasant surprise might cause you to be late. Additionally, feeling rushed to get to your test on time can make you even more anxious. A moment to calm yourself could significantly improve your test results.<ref name="rf4">http://www.thelifemanagementalliance.com/Psychological/EmotionManagement/AnxietyFear/HurriedRushedOverwhelmedSyndrome.html</ref> |
#*When you arrive early, you'll have extra time to do things that relax you, like listening to music, reading a book, drinking a cup of coffee, and so on. | #*When you arrive early, you'll have extra time to do things that relax you, like listening to music, reading a book, drinking a cup of coffee, and so on. | ||
| − | #Present the necessary documents to the testing agent. In addition to your license, inspection, and registration, you'll also have to present a valid form of state issued ID. After these documents have been verified by the agent, your vehicle assessment will begin.<ref | + | #Present the necessary documents to the testing agent. In addition to your license, inspection, and registration, you'll also have to present a valid form of state issued ID. After these documents have been verified by the agent, your vehicle assessment will begin.<ref name="rf1" /> |
| − | #*Valid forms of primary ID include: state driver's license or ID card not yet expired two years, valid passport, permanent resident card, temporary resident card, unexpired military IDs, and more.<ref>https://www.txdps.state.tx.us/driverlicense/identificationrequirements.htm</ref> | + | #*Valid forms of primary ID include: state driver's license or ID card not yet expired two years, valid passport, permanent resident card, temporary resident card, unexpired military IDs, and more.<ref name="rf5">https://www.txdps.state.tx.us/driverlicense/identificationrequirements.htm</ref> |
#*The vehicle assessment portion of the test will only involve your testing agent checking that your vehicle is safe and legal. You likely won't be asked questions at this point unless something is wrong. | #*The vehicle assessment portion of the test will only involve your testing agent checking that your vehicle is safe and legal. You likely won't be asked questions at this point unless something is wrong. | ||
| − | #Ask questions before starting the driving test. Different testing locations may have a different setup, and you may want to inquire with your testing agent about the course or the agent's expectations. However, once you begin the driving test, the agent is generally not permitted to carry on casual conversation.<ref | + | #Ask questions before starting the driving test. Different testing locations may have a different setup, and you may want to inquire with your testing agent about the course or the agent's expectations. However, once you begin the driving test, the agent is generally not permitted to carry on casual conversation.<ref name="rf1" /> |
| − | #Make car adjustments before starting the car. Right when you hop in the car, your testing agent will be watching to see if you perform your pre-start duties. These involve adjusting the mirrors, your seat, fastening your seatbelt, and knowing the car controls.<ref>http://djitz.com/guides/texas-drivers-license-driving-road-test-success-guide-detailed/comment-page-1/</ref> | + | #Make car adjustments before starting the car. Right when you hop in the car, your testing agent will be watching to see if you perform your pre-start duties. These involve adjusting the mirrors, your seat, fastening your seatbelt, and knowing the car controls.<ref name="rf6">http://djitz.com/guides/texas-drivers-license-driving-road-test-success-guide-detailed/comment-page-1/</ref> |
#*Even if your car is already adjusted to your comfort, make small adjustments to show that you have good driving habits. | #*Even if your car is already adjusted to your comfort, make small adjustments to show that you have good driving habits. | ||
#*Some testing agents can be very strict about the order of the test. Check with your testing agent before getting into your car, making adjustments, and turning it on. | #*Some testing agents can be very strict about the order of the test. Check with your testing agent before getting into your car, making adjustments, and turning it on. | ||
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#*A good score in observation will come from you always keeping traffic in view and responding to potential problems proactively. | #*A good score in observation will come from you always keeping traffic in view and responding to potential problems proactively. | ||
#*Your positioning score will depend on your ability to stay in your lane consistently. Drifting, weaving, or favoring one side of the lane over another will hurt this score. | #*Your positioning score will depend on your ability to stay in your lane consistently. Drifting, weaving, or favoring one side of the lane over another will hurt this score. | ||
| − | #*As long as you always remember to use your turn signals where appropriate, you can expect a strong score in this skill area.<ref>http://www.texasadultdriver.com/texas-driving-test.aspx</ref> | + | #*As long as you always remember to use your turn signals where appropriate, you can expect a strong score in this skill area.<ref name="rf7">http://www.texasadultdriver.com/texas-driving-test.aspx</ref> |
#Prove your basic driving proficiency. This includes many things, all of which should have been covered in your driver's education course. The exact areas you are tested on can vary, though there are some features you can expect on nearly any driving test. These include: | #Prove your basic driving proficiency. This includes many things, all of which should have been covered in your driver's education course. The exact areas you are tested on can vary, though there are some features you can expect on nearly any driving test. These include: | ||
#*[[Parallel Park|Parallel parking]] | #*[[Parallel Park|Parallel parking]] | ||
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#*Obeying all traffic signs and signals, especially stop signs | #*Obeying all traffic signs and signals, especially stop signs | ||
#*Stopping quickly from a speed of 20 mph without skidding the tires | #*Stopping quickly from a speed of 20 mph without skidding the tires | ||
| − | #*Keeping proper posture, with both hands on the wheel at all times<ref | + | #*Keeping proper posture, with both hands on the wheel at all times<ref name="rf6" /> |
#Receive your results. After your test is finished, the testing agent will inform you whether or not you passed the test. Following this, you can expect detailed feedback on your driving strengths and weaknesses. If you didn't pass this time around, you still have 90 days to try two more times to pass the test. | #Receive your results. After your test is finished, the testing agent will inform you whether or not you passed the test. Following this, you can expect detailed feedback on your driving strengths and weaknesses. If you didn't pass this time around, you still have 90 days to try two more times to pass the test. | ||
| − | #*If 90 days have passed since your last driving test, or if you've failed the test three times in 90 days, you'll have to file a new application and pay the application fee once again.<ref | + | #*If 90 days have passed since your last driving test, or if you've failed the test three times in 90 days, you'll have to file a new application and pay the application fee once again.<ref name="rf1" /> |
===Overcoming Driving Test Anxiety=== | ===Overcoming Driving Test Anxiety=== | ||
#Make a practice test. With a few cones or other place markers, like boxes, you can create your own practice driving test in your driveway, yard, or in an empty parking lot. You should especially target trouble areas for practice, like parallel parking. | #Make a practice test. With a few cones or other place markers, like boxes, you can create your own practice driving test in your driveway, yard, or in an empty parking lot. You should especially target trouble areas for practice, like parallel parking. | ||
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#Coach yourself through anxiety. Nerves from your driving test might make you overly critical of your ability and hurt your performance. When you feel anxiety, confront it directly and mentally encourage yourself. For example, you might say something like: | #Coach yourself through anxiety. Nerves from your driving test might make you overly critical of your ability and hurt your performance. When you feel anxiety, confront it directly and mentally encourage yourself. For example, you might say something like: | ||
#*"It's only natural to be nervous. Lots of people get nervous about tests. I've worked hard and am a careful driver. I can do this!" | #*"It's only natural to be nervous. Lots of people get nervous about tests. I've worked hard and am a careful driver. I can do this!" | ||
| − | #*"I don't usually feel nervous when driving. I'm going to do my best, and if I need to, I can always take it again."<ref>https://www.psychologytoday.com/blog/hope-relationships/201605/the-power-positive-self-talk</ref> | + | #*"I don't usually feel nervous when driving. I'm going to do my best, and if I need to, I can always take it again."<ref name="rf8">https://www.psychologytoday.com/blog/hope-relationships/201605/the-power-positive-self-talk</ref> |
| − | #Take your time. As long as you are performing your driving maneuvers safely and legally, you don't need to rush to make a turn, merge into a lane, or pull into a parking spot. Similarly, take your time answering any oral questions during the driving test. It's better to take your time and do things properly than rush and get a worse score.<ref>http://tips.drivingtestsuccess.com/learner-car/practical/deal-test-nerves/</ref> | + | #Take your time. As long as you are performing your driving maneuvers safely and legally, you don't need to rush to make a turn, merge into a lane, or pull into a parking spot. Similarly, take your time answering any oral questions during the driving test. It's better to take your time and do things properly than rush and get a worse score.<ref name="rf9">http://tips.drivingtestsuccess.com/learner-car/practical/deal-test-nerves/</ref> |
#Remember to [[Breathe|breathe]]. When you get nervous or anxious, without realizing it you might end up holding your breath or breathing shallowly. This can make you feel worse. Take deep, full breaths slowly to help calm yourself during the test. | #Remember to [[Breathe|breathe]]. When you get nervous or anxious, without realizing it you might end up holding your breath or breathing shallowly. This can make you feel worse. Take deep, full breaths slowly to help calm yourself during the test. | ||
#*Stress related shallow breathing can cause panic attacks in some people. Stop panic attacks before they start by regulating your breathing with deep, full breaths. | #*Stress related shallow breathing can cause panic attacks in some people. Stop panic attacks before they start by regulating your breathing with deep, full breaths. | ||
| − | #*Breathing in and out on a count can also help you calm yourself. For example, you might breathe in slowly and completely while counting to ten, hold the breath for a moment, then breathe out slowly and completely, again while counting to ten.<ref>http://psychcentral.com/blog/archives/2013/07/22/reduce-your-anxiety-this-minute-3-different-types-of-deep-breathing/</ref> | + | #*Breathing in and out on a count can also help you calm yourself. For example, you might breathe in slowly and completely while counting to ten, hold the breath for a moment, then breathe out slowly and completely, again while counting to ten.<ref name="rf10">http://psychcentral.com/blog/archives/2013/07/22/reduce-your-anxiety-this-minute-3-different-types-of-deep-breathing/</ref> |
== Warnings == | == Warnings == | ||
