Many students who know how to drive still lose points on test day because of small habits. These are five of the most common ones — and how to fix them before your Maryland driving test.
1. Not checking blind spots
Mirrors alone are not enough. Before every lane change, merge or pull-out, glance over your shoulder — and make the head turn clear enough that the examiner can see it.
2. Rolling through stop signs
Come to a complete stop behind the line, count a full second, look both ways, then go. A “slow roll” is not a stop.
3. Speeding in school and residential zones
Nervous drivers often stop watching the speed limit signs. Keep checking them, and slow down early when you see a school zone.
4. Signalling too late
Signal before you start braking or moving over, so other drivers know your plan in time — not while you are already turning.
5. Rushing the parking maneuver
Slow is smooth. Take your time, use your reference points and check around the car while you back up. See our step-by-step guide to parallel parking.
Feeling nervous about test day? Book a behind-the-wheel lesson and tell your instructor which skills you want to practice.
