Taking to the roads of Tennessee for the first time can be a daunting prospect. It's not easy to negotiate busy roads and new layouts, such as the roundabouts in downtown Memphis, which have been the cause of so much annoyance recently. You need to build your confidence right from the start, which is why you should choose an experienced and proficient driver to help you learn. They can provide you with the support you need while you practice.
Remember, you should spend plenty of time rehearsing the maneuvers that will be examined during the driving test. For this reason, it's a good idea to get to know as much as possible about what you will be tested on. Spend some time looking for the Tennessee DMV that is nearest to where you live and ask them for any information they can share about the test.
Once you are ready to take the test, you should pay attention to the most common reasons for failure, so you know what to avoid. Here are five of those reasons.
Not coming to a complete stop
If you are approaching a stop sign, red light or right turn at an intersection, you need to prepare to stop. It's not sufficient to just slow down and continue to roll. If you do not come to a complete stop, it could cost you points. This could be the difference between you passing and failing the test.
Not keeping enough distance between your vehicle and the one in front
Making sure that you do not follow other vehicles too closely is important. You should always have a few car lengths between your vehicle and the vehicle which is directly in front. For information on the exact distances, you should be keeping, refer to the Tennessee Driver License Manual.
Not keeping your speed at the right level
Not following the speed limit is a common reason for failing a driving test. It's likely that the test area will cover different speed limit zones. You may even have to drive through areas where the limit has been adjusted due to temporary disruption, so you need to always pay close attention to the speed limit signs.
Not changing lanes correctly
You should never become complacent when changing lanes, even after you get your license. Not following the correct procedures could lead to you being involved in a serious accident. You need to look, signal and use your mirrors in the correct way, or you could find yourself failing your driving test.
Not being able to parallel park
This is one skill that many new drivers find difficult to acquire. It's an important feature of a driving test, so you need to master it. If you have difficulty parallel parking, it's a good idea to set up your own area using cones, in a quiet space. Once you have conquered the skill there, you can continue to practice in busier areas.
The above issues are common reasons for people failing their driving test. The list is not exhaustive, but taking note of these points will be useful in helping you get your license. Do not forget that passing the test is not the end of the story. There will still be plenty of things that you can learn as you continue driving, so you should never become complacent.
