Preparing for the Road Test
Being prepared in advance can reduce stress and make taking your road test a less dramatic experience.
- Review, at least, chapter 1 of the Minnesota Driver's Manual. Reviewing the entire manual would be better.
- One week ahead of your test, log into your Today's Driving School Student Center and verify that your birthday, first, middle, and last name are correct. This is the information we used when we registered your e-card. If it is incorrect there, it will be incorrect on your e-card, and you will not be allowed to complete the road test. Call us immediately if they are incorrect and we will register a new e-card.
- Gather your valid permit, current insurance card, supervised driving log, parent class certificate of completion, (if applicable), and car keys together the night before your test. If you are applying for the Real ID or Enhanced Driver's License also gather the additional paperwork required for that.
- Inspect the vehicle you plan to use for the road test at least 1 day in advance and make sure the vehicle is ready for the test. (lights, horn, dashboard controls, etc.)
- If you are borrowing a vehicle for the road test, get plenty of practice drive time to familiarize yourself with the car.
- Get plenty of sleep prior to the test.
- Take a few deep breaths before starting the test. This helps calm the nerves a bit.
- Focus on one maneuver at a time. Trying to think too far ahead or anticipate what comes next can cause mistakes.
- If you make an error on the exam, accept it and move on. Don't let it distract you causing additional mistakes.
- Remember that the examiner is evaluating safety, awareness, and control as evidence that you are ready to get your license. They are not trying to "get you", they want you to pass as much as you do.
