This may not be realistic but the goal is to get zero points off on the DMV Road Test. Finishing the test with no penalty or zero points reflects a perfect score, or no penalties for doing something wrong. This does not mean that you need to drive perfectly however, because you can pass with up to thirty points total. Please see the picture below on the left.
Here are your explanations: First, you should be aware that the DMV examiner does not have to explain the reason for your failure. But the examiner may simply say that you need more practice! If an explanation is offered, do not bother to argue or ask for another exam right now. Just accept it.
Next, do not schedule another test right away. Calm down, and think about why you really failed the test. You will need time to perfect any mistakes that caused the failure. Developing safe driving skills requires time.
Try to be patient while you sharpen up on any weaknesses such as changing lanes in traffic smoothly. A rush to take another road test too early can degrade your confidence and the effort necessary to try again for some people. Also, do not assume that because you may have failed on the parallel park that parking is the only task you will need to practice. In fact, unable to parallel park correctly indicates poor steering control and judgment on execution.
Starting / Intersections
LEAVING THE CURB (10: Fails to observe Fails to signal Uses Mirror only fails to check blind spot (5) Poor
judgment or at intersections(10): Speed/Turning/Stopping/Observing.
Traffic and vehicle control
Failed to keep right (10) improper lane of traffic (10) Follows too closely(10) Speed excessive for conditions: Traffic/Weather/Road (15) Too slow/impedes traffic flow (15) Repeated stalling: Poor engine control/acceleration (10) Poor steering control: Turning/Straight/Maneuvers (15) Delayed braking/abrupt braking (10) Poor use of gears: Automatic/Manual (10) Poor Clutch control (10)
Parking, Backing, Steering Turns
Fails to signal(5) Fails to adequately observe or use caution (10) Unable to park properly(15) Unable to 3-point turn(15) Excessive maneuvers (5)
It cannot be overstated that the majority of road test failures happen while turning left or right at an intersection.
Similarly, most vehicle crashes occurs at intersections also. This is why the DMV examiners must assess good
judgment and timing while approaching and turning at four way intersections.
Most students and parents empathize practicing the parallel park, but knowing how to change lanes and turn safely is really what driving and the road test are all about.
