Should You Still Go for Driving Practice When It Rains?
3 Answers
You should still go for driving practice on rainy days to get accustomed to unexpected situations like rain during the actual test. Here are some precautions for practicing driving in the rain: 1. During the test in the rain, try not to close the windows. Visibility is already poor in the rain, and keeping the windows open allows for better viewing of the rearview mirrors and reference points. 2. Wheels are prone to slipping on rainy days, so avoid driving too fast. When braking, use light or intermittent braking to reduce speed before applying full brakes, and avoid slamming on the brakes. 3. Students should adjust their mindset and practice driving in the rain regularly. Only by practicing in the rain beforehand will they feel confident and unworried when encountering rainy conditions during the actual test, enabling them to complete the test successfully.
Practicing driving in the rain is something I’ve thought about a lot after years of driving experience, and I believe it really depends on the situation. If the rain isn’t heavy and the road isn’t too slippery, it’s actually a good opportunity to practice, since you’ll inevitably encounter rainy conditions in real-life driving. Getting used to it early is better than panicking when it happens unexpectedly. I remember my first time driving in the rain—I was a bit flustered, the braking distance was noticeably longer, and the rearview mirror kept fogging up, making it hard to see. The key is to ensure your car’s wipers are working properly, the tire tread is deep enough to minimize slipping risks, and visibility is manageable. If the rain is too heavy or there’s standing water on the road, I’d advise against taking the risk—just wait for better weather. If conditions allow at the practice area, bringing along an experienced friend for guidance is a smart move—safety first, after all. Ultimately, weigh the risks and benefits, and don’t push progress at all costs. New drivers already face enough stress, and an accident would only make things worse. Personally, I think practicing in light rain is fine, but heavy rain is best avoided—just postpone the session.
As a driving instructor, I often tell my students that practicing driving in the rain isn't absolutely off-limits, but caution is essential. When the rain is light and the training area conditions are good, it's an excellent opportunity to hone driving skills in wet conditions—such as how to control speed to avoid skidding and how to use brakes to maintain distance. This can enhance real-world driving abilities, so you're not caught off guard when it rains. However, heavy rain makes roads slicker and more hazardous, with increased visual distractions, which can easily fluster beginners and lead to mistakes. I recommend first checking if the training facility is safe, such as whether it has a drainage system to prevent water accumulation. Bring spare towels or defogger to handle fogged-up windows if needed. The key is choosing the right moment—don't force it. Safety should always come first. When practicing in the rain, it's best to start in a controlled environment and avoid heavy rain or nighttime conditions.
