Can I take the driving test if my practice is a mess?
3 Answers
Yes, you can. It's possible to pass the test even if your practice sessions are a mess—this is what we call 'extremes meet.' In fact, this scenario isn't impossible. Although your practice may not be satisfactory and the process may seem disorganized, you might still grasp the essential techniques, even if the execution isn't perfect. Subject 1: Road traffic safety laws, regulations, and related knowledge test (Subject 1)—theoretical, computer-based, with a full score of 100 points; 90 points or above (including 90) is considered a pass. Subject 2: Field driving skills test (Subject 2)—on-site, practical driving. Results are either pass or fail. The test includes five mandatory tasks performed in sequence: reversing into a garage, parallel parking, S-curve driving, right-angle turns, and hill starts and stops. The full score is 100 points; 80 points or above (including 80) is considered a pass. Subject 3: Road driving skills test (Subject 3)—on actual roads or simulated environments, practical driving. The full score is 100 points. Passing scores vary by vehicle type: 90 or above for large buses, 80 or above for large trucks, 90 or above for small cars and small automatic passenger vehicles, and 70 or above for other vehicle types. Subject 4: Safe and civilized driving knowledge (Subject 3 theory, commonly referred to as Subject 4, though officially there is no Subject 4 designation)—theoretical, with a full score of 100 points; 90 points or above (including 90) is considered a pass.
As a seasoned driver with over a decade of experience, I can confidently say that if your driving practice is a mess, you'd better not rush to take the test. Driving exams are no joke—they directly impact your safety on the road. If you can't even handle basic tasks like shifting gears, starting, or parking smoothly, nerves during the test will only make mistakes more likely. I've seen many students force themselves to take the test unprepared, only to fail repeatedly, wasting money on retakes or worse—causing minor accidents that damage the car or themselves. Safety always comes first. Spend a few extra days practicing seriously, mastering key maneuvers like turns and lane changes before attempting the exam. Simulating real road conditions in an empty lot for half an hour before the test can also boost your confidence. Remember, only take the test when your skills are solid—it saves you from regrets and wasted effort.
When I was learning to drive, I kept making mistakes back and forth, and even I felt like a mess. The instructor even joked that with my level, passing the test would be a stretch. As a result, I didn't rush to sign up for the exam. Instead, I gritted my teeth and practiced for three extra evening sessions, gradually getting the hang of the rhythm, and passed the test smoothly on my first try. If you're still confused during practice, don't bank on luck—the pressure during the test is intense. What if the examiner randomly picks a difficult reversing task? You'd be totally stumped. Practicing more until you're steady makes you feel much more at ease. Not only can you save on retake fees and time, but you'll also feel more comfortable when driving. Find a friend to practice with you a few times, and focus on your weak spots to make progress smoother.
