How to Deal with Always Deviating in Straight-line Driving During Subject 3 Test?

[ValeriaLynn]

Generally, the car will drive straight if the steering wheel is placed flat and not moved, but first, make sure the steering wheel is straightened. Otherwise, the steering wheel itself will be crooked. Finding suitable reference points on the road is also crucial, as this helps maintain straight-line driving over time. For example, the center line of the road, the roadside line, or the curb. Novice drivers are most likely to deviate when driving on wide road sections. The reason is that the large space and broad field of vision can easily weaken the reference points from the roadside and markings. If the vehicle deviates on narrow road sections, it is very easy to collide with oncoming vehicles. Try to drive on the right side and use the curb on the right as a reference.

[DelVera]

I used to have the same issue when learning to drive—always veering off during straight-line driving, which made the test super stressful. I figured out that the main problem was holding the steering wheel too rigidly; gripping it tightly would cause the car to drift as soon as I loosened my grip. Later, my instructor taught me to look farther ahead instead of fixating on the hood. Pick a fixed point in the distance, like a utility pole or traffic light, and keep your eyes on it while driving—the car will naturally stay aligned. Maintain a steady speed around 30 km/h, apply the throttle smoothly, and avoid sudden acceleration or deceleration to prevent drifting. Sit upright, hold the steering wheel lightly without squeezing it, and make minor adjustments if you feel the car veering. I practiced straight-line driving in an empty lot a few more times and gradually got the hang of it, passing the test on my first try. The key is not to panic—practice more to memorize the feel, and it’ll become easier.

[NovaFitz]

Having driven for over a decade, I know that veering off course in a straight line is common when learning to drive, so there's no need to panic. The key is to look far ahead, find a stable target like a billboard or a road sign, and focus your eyes on it while driving—the steering wheel will naturally follow. Don’t grip the wheel too tightly; just rest your fingers lightly and make slight corrections if you feel the car drifting, avoiding excessive movements. Maintain a steady speed between 20 to 40 km/h, as going too fast or too slow makes it harder to stabilize the car. I recommend practicing repeatedly on an open stretch of road, driving for a few minutes each time, keeping your body relaxed and posture upright, while ensuring the car stays parallel to the roadside lines. Once you get the hang of it, passing the test will be a breeze.

[JulietteDella]

When teaching Subject 3 at the driving school, I often notice students veering off course during straight-line driving due to vision issues. Eyes should focus on a distant fixed point like a road sign and maintain that focus throughout; avoid looking down at the dashboard or the front of the car to prevent unconscious steering adjustments. If the car drifts, make minor steering corrections, keeping adjustments within about 5 degrees; maintain a steady speed around 30 km/h. Adjust your seating position properly with your back against the seat; practice on open roads to simulate test conditions—if your body stays straight, the car won’t drift. A few more practice sessions will help build the habit. Before the test, take deep breaths to stay calm—it’s key.

[MacReed]

From the vehicle's perspective, straight-line deviation may be caused by human operational errors, such as unstable steering wheel control. It is recommended to adjust the seat and mirrors properly, focus your gaze further ahead along the reference line; lightly rest your fingertips on the steering wheel and make minor corrections to keep it centered. Maintaining a steady speed of around 30 km/h is most stable—avoid sudden acceleration; when practicing, find a long straight road and drive repeatedly until the car tracks smoothly. A relaxed sitting posture can reduce deviation, remember the basics, and stay focused—everything will be fine.

[MacQuinn]

On a psychological and habitual level, deviation during straight driving often stems from nervousness. Keep your body relaxed, focus on a distant target as if aiming, and avoid excessive steering wheel movements. Maintain a steady speed of 30 km/h, and minor adjustments will bring you back on track. During practice, concentrate on road conditions rather than fixating on the test. Develop the habit of looking far ahead in daily driving, and practice straight-line driving until it becomes second nature. With a calm mindset, deviation naturally decreases, and mastering the basics through practice leads to improvement.