Exams are stressful for many people. The driving test, in particular, causes anxiety for many. Often, uncertainty is the root cause of this fear and stress. Here you’ll learn how driving tests are conducted, how best to prepare, and how to stay calm during the exam. Theory and practice
The driving test consists of two parts: the theory test and the practical test. You only receive your driving license after passing both tests. The theory test assesses your knowledge of road traffic and traffic regulations. The practical driving test evaluates your ability to follow these rules and your driving skills.
Requirements for the driving test
To register for the theory test, you must provide proof of participation in the theory lessons at your driving school. Only after you have completed the legally required number of theory lessons should you register with a testing center through your driving school. In Germany, TÜV and DEKRA are authorized to administer the driving test.
The theory lessons
Once you have completed all the necessary official procedures, you should register at the driving school of your choice. There you will attend the theory lessons.
Theory lessons are often offered as block courses over a few weeks. These sessions often take place in the evenings or on weekends so as not to interfere with school attendance or work schedules. Usually, several driving students are taught simultaneously in one classroom at the driving school.
Your driving instructor will teach you how to behave in traffic . As a participant in flowing traffic, it is essential to know the traffic rules thoroughly. You will learn the meaning of the various traffic signs, how a vehicle works, and what situations you might encounter on the road.
You will learn the correct behavior in various situations, such as wet roads, darkness, and traffic jams. You will also learn right-of-way rules and how to drive defensively. The driving instructor will explain special traffic situations and the consequences of incorrect behavior on the road.Theory and practice
The theoretical driving test
After successfully completing the theory lessons, you will receive a certificate from your driving school. This certificate confirms that you have completed the required number of theory lessons. The theory test for a car requires 14 double lessons of basic material and 2 double lessons of supplementary material. For other driving license categories , such as the truck license, more supplementary material is taught. Prior knowledge, for example, from another driving license already obtained, reduces the number of theory lessons required.
Documents for the theoretical driving test
In addition to your training certificate, you will need to bring other items to the theory test. First, your personal details will be verified. Therefore, please bring your identity card or passport with you on the day of the test. The test fee is also due on the day of the test. If your driving school has not already collected the fee beforehand, please bring the cash to the testing center. The cost of the theory test is €22.49 .Theory and practice
You will need the following for the theory test :
- Certificate of attendance at theory lessons
- Identity card or passport
- Examination fees
Procedure of the theory test
You’ll probably be nervous on the day of the exam. If you’re well prepared, you have nothing to fear.
At the testing center, you present your identity card or passport. The examiner uses this to verify your identity. To prove your participation in the theory lessons, you submit your training certificate from your driving school. Afterwards, you pay the test fee and find a seat.
At the start of the driving test, your examiner will introduce themselves. Since 2010, the theory test has been administered digitally. You will answer the questions on a tablet or PC. You will receive an introduction to the technology and an explanation of how the test works. Afterwards, you will have time to ask your questions. Once all participants are familiar with the technology and the procedure, the test will begin.
Questions in the driving test and penalty points
Thirty questions from the question bank will be asked. If you have practiced diligently beforehand, whether online or with the paper driving test , you will know the questions. Each question has multiple-choice answers. Mark the correct answer. Sometimes more than one answer is correct; in that case, mark all correct answers. You have unlimited time to answer the questions. Don’t rush; work carefully.
The examiners assess the driving test based on error points. Questions about right-of-way rules are penalized with more error points if answered incorrectly. If you have fewer than 11 error points, you pass the theory test. However, if two questions are answered incorrectly, each resulting in 5 error points, you fail the theory driving test.
You will be notified of your result immediately after the exam. So you will know right after the exam whether you have passed.
Tips for the theory test
You can look forward to your exam with peace of mind if you consider a few things beforehand:
- Arrive rested and on time for the exam.
- Wear comfortable clothing
- Use the toilet again before the exam
- Ask all unanswered questions beforehand.
- Take enough time to answer the questions.
- If you are unsure, mark the question and edit it again later.
The practical driving test
Passing the theory test is a prerequisite for the practical driving test . Your driving instructor will assess when you are ready for the practical driving test. Beforehand, you will have practiced driving sufficiently in the driving school car and will be confident navigating traffic. During the 12 special driving lessons and several practice sessions, you will have gained practical experience and consolidated your knowledge from the theory lessons. The day of the driving test is therefore drawing nearer.
The practical driving test costs €91.75 . Each testing center has different payment rules. In some places, you pay in cash before the test, while in others you transfer the money beforehand and present a bank statement. Ask your driving instructor how to pay the fee.
Please bring the following with you on the day of the exam:
- Identity card or passport
- Visual aids, if needed (contact lenses or glasses)
- Examination fee or proof of payment
- Driving school training certificate
Procedure of the practical driving test
Don’t schedule any other important appointments on the day of your practical driving test. Get enough sleep the night before so you arrive rested for the test. After you’ve introduced yourself to the examiner, everyone will get into the driving school car. The examiner will check your personal details and explain the test procedure.
First, get your car ready to drive. Preparing the vehicle includes:
Adjust all mirrors for good visibility
Adjusting the seating position comfortably, but upright
Adjust headrest
Adequate distance from the seat to the steering wheel
Proper distance from the seat to the foot pedals
Ensure a clear view (no hair in the face, clear the window of ice or dust if necessary)
Your practical driving test lasts 45 minutes, the same length as a normal driving lesson. During the test, your driving instructor will give you instructions. Follow these instructions carefully. If you don’t understand something, ask again. The examiner will also incorporate basic driving maneuvers into the test . These include, for example, parking and making U-turns. After the test, the examiner will immediately inform you of the result.
Practical tips for the driving test
For both the theoretical and practical exams: Stay calm and prepare thoroughly. If you feel confident, you’ll pass the exam. However, there are a few things you can do to feel comfortable on those days.
Get enough sleep the night before the exam and arrive on time. Drink and eat enough, and go to the restroom before the exam. Relax and think positively.
Wear comfortable clothing. Wear things you feel good in and can move freely in. Especially for the practical driving test, pay attention to your footwear . Wear the same shoes to every practice driving lesson so you get used to them and feel confident on the day of the test.
Remember: Don’t forget what you learned in driving school. The exams only ask questions and test content that you’ve already covered in theory lessons or during practical driving sessions. There are also various ways to practice for the driving test online .
When driving during the practical test, always pay attention to the following:
- Drive considerately and with foresight during the practical driving test.
- Always keep an eye on the traffic around you.
- Use your mirrors
- Never forget to check your blind spot.
- Pay attention to other road users and do not endanger them.
- Also, make sure you maintain an appropriate speed.
If you make a minor mistake, correct it calmly. If your engine stalls because you’re too nervous, you won’t fail. However, failing to stop at a stop sign is a serious violation. The examiner knows the stress you’re under, so don’t panic and stay focused.
Conclusion
Don’t overestimate yourself, but feel well-prepared. Your driving instructor will only allow you to take the test if you’ve practiced sufficiently. You ‘ll learn a lot to get your driver’s license. Once you’ve passed your driving tests, you’ll receive permission to drive a motor vehicle. However, becoming a good driver requires a lot of practice, by always keeping your training in mind and participating responsibly on the road.
