Driving Licence Test VICTORIA - Whats the trick to passing it in one go?

Lsavwaii on 23/06/2015 - 11:01
Last edited 23/06/2015 - 11:02

I am looking to get a Victorian Driving Licence. I have already passed my learners and hazards. I have been told my numerous people that I wont be able to clear the drive test without taking a few classes where they show you the route and tell you the most important thing to take care of while driving.

I don't wanna spend extra on driving classes as I have been driving for past 4 years on my overseas licence and have had no traffic offences and I am a confident driver.

HOW CAN I AVOID PAYING FOR THE DRIVING LESSONS? SHOULD I ATTEMPT WITHOUT ANY LESSONS? HAS ANYBODY CLEARED IN THEIR FIRST ATTEMPT?

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Comments

      • xyron on 23/06/2015 - 16:02
        +1

        It just seems strange to me that Victoria will let you drive on certain overseas licences, but won't allow you to convert some of those overseas licences to Victorian ones…

  • KaTst3R on 23/06/2015 - 15:20
    +5

    The trick to passing is DONT FAIL…

    • [Deactivated] on 24/06/2015 - 14:21

      Great tip.

      Thanks bro.

  • ramshead on 23/06/2015 - 15:45

    I think it wise to invest in one or two lessons - all up about $120. If you need to rebook a test after a fail in NSW it's about $60.
    Anyway my tip, if you've got pierced ears, is to wear dangly earrings on the day so your head tilts and glances are doubly noticeable.

  • Aneurism on 23/06/2015 - 15:52
    +1

    There are a few parts to this.

    1. The teachers tend to know the common test routes. By running through the test routes, they can spot places where you could potentially lose marks, and fine tune how you act or react to the scenarios. Obviously there are other factors that can be put to play.. ie. pedestrians, cyclists, aggressive drivers etc.. It helps to know the environment, so that you can concentrate more on dealing with the random things that can happen..

    2. They are likely to have a good idea of where you stand from a pass/fail perspective after a trial run. This can help with confidence,. or if they feel you are not up to scratch, they can assist with areas which need more work.

    3. Sometimes it's not just all about the road rules.. sometimes it's also knowing the test rules. eg. what happens if you hit a curb whilst parking ? The instructor can help to fill candidates with some of these bits of information so that when it is crunch time, you know exactly what to expect, and exactly how much leeway there is if things don't go 100% to plan.

    In the end, the OP can either
    1.just sit the test
    2. or get a couple of lessons indicating to the instructor it is for the purpose of training for the test.
    3. Get a friend who can drive, wait outside the testing area, and follow a few cars doing tests. (overkill, and you lose money on petrol and time).

    • [Deactivated] on 25/06/2015 - 00:40

      Is number 3 legally allowed?

      By saying that, I mean it wouldn't be akin to stalking or anything like that?

      Besides, there are many routes for each testing centre. The "followed" route would be one of many more.

      • badarz on 25/06/2015 - 11:03

        There is a legal definition of stalking and this doesn't meet the criteria, one of which is that it must cause harm.

  • Tech5 on 23/06/2015 - 16:37
    +8

    Can't emphasis head check enough. Not enough that you do it, the instructor must see it. Break your neck and twist it 360 if you have to.

  • imc123 on 23/06/2015 - 17:09

    Like most people have commented, its best to take at least one so you know what the test officer will be looking for while you are doing your test. For instance, while on your own it may be safe to lane change straight away because of no cars around etc. however the RULE is that you have to indicate for three or so seconds before actually changing; and depending on the instructor you have, they may or may not be very strict about things like this.

  • swiggity swag on 23/06/2015 - 18:16

    I found taking some driving lessons prior to my test resulted in me passing it in one go.

  • currentfad on 23/06/2015 - 19:17

    I never had any lessons and passed on first go.
    Head checks, speed management, road awareness (looking at all mirrors constantly), indicating a good distance from turns, looking both ways at intersections after lights turn green, not tailgating, keeping a good distance from the first car if stopped. All I can think of.

    Oh, and don't forget to wear your seatbelt, and remember that we drive on the left hand side…I've heard quite a few stories of overseas drivers who have accidentally turned into the wrong side lmao.

  • Bandit74 on 23/06/2015 - 19:23
    -2

    Are you a girl?

    Short short short skirt + ample visable cleavage

    as most VicRoads testers are sleazy old guys

    • KaTst3R on 23/06/2015 - 19:54

      Mine was an old lady dammit, she'll probably fail me if I was a hot girl.

    • [Deactivated] on 24/06/2015 - 14:23
      +1

      Exploitation of physical assets to pass driving tests?

  • vavs on 23/06/2015 - 19:27

    Hi Savwaii, four years of continuous driving should have made you comfortable on Aussie roads. What I've realised driving here with an OS license is that it is not just our comfort but it is essential for other road users also to be comfortable when we are on the road.

    In SA we can get a mock Driving test. Why don't you consider that? At least in SA, one has to clear VORT within 30 days of sitting the theory test, when i last checked for OS license conversion. If one doesn't clear within that time, the validity of the OS licence is lost and one has to begin from learners the Aussie way.

    Best of luck.

  • aussie28 on 23/06/2015 - 20:18

    I got my P Plates at Greensborough on my 18th birthday first thing in the morning, It was always my aim to get it on my 18th birthday as a present to myself and I am so glad I passed it, Tho it was almost stopped due to me waiting behind a bus to go ahead and cars piling up at the round about right behind me, I was told a few days prior to the test by my qualified instructor that to allow a bus to continue going first and not overtake it but jeez that bus felt like it was taking forever to go and I finally made the decision to pass the bus stopped on the side of the road and was told at the end of the test if I had waited any longer I would have failed.

    • cowiie on 24/06/2015 - 07:49
      +1

      LOL, only give way to a bus if it is signalling to get back onto the road.

  • Cluster on 24/06/2015 - 01:11

    How to pass the driving test in Victoria? Wipe off 5.

  • johnno07 on 24/06/2015 - 01:15

    The reason that everyone is assuming you're a shit driver, is because that's the way you survive on the roads - by assuming everyone else is a shit driver.

    I took one lesson and passed on my first go. But as you're clearly a hot shot, and don't actually seem to have any intention of taking a lesson, it would probably be a lot better for everyone if you just stopped posting here, and took your test. Please come back with the result.

  • blurrybird on 24/06/2015 - 01:54
    -2

    I got my P's last week; failed the week before. (Parked car on either side in residential street, indicated to move over the middle line and pass, failed because I didn't headcheck or check my mirrors - "because there's a chance someone wants to overtake" me and drive head-first into the parked car at 50km/h. BS reasoning if you ask me)

    Did you know that even when moving into those turning lanes (the kind that pop up just before a turn at an intersection) you have to do a headcheck? Even if you're moving in to it at literally the second it becomes a lane? Nobody does this but it's required to pass the test.

    Did you know that you need to look in your main mirror every 5 seconds to keep an eye on your surroundings? I thought that would be a safety hazard spending that much time not looking at the road! Requirement for a perfect run on the test.

    All these little things stack up. You might be able to parallel park without looking, merge confidently at a left lane ends and make a right hand turn on to a main road, but do you know that during a 3-point turn you must headcheck in both directions at every step otherwise the whole turn is counted as a fail? These are what the instructor taught me to be careful with when taking the test.

    • currentfad on 24/06/2015 - 02:53
      +1

      Nobody does this but it's required to pass the test.

      Actually, I've had a close call with a bicycle rider once, and so I'll never forget to do this. All these things that seem stupid to do are stupid until you've had some personal experience with it, hence why the rule exists in the first place.

      Second of all, checking mirrors every 5 seconds is pretty standard…If you're not doing it, you're putting yourself at more risk with your lack of awareness.

      • cowiie on 24/06/2015 - 07:52

        Checking mirrors mean quick glances. You don't stare at each mirror when driving, that would definitely be a hazard.

    • Ughhh on 24/06/2015 - 12:06

      did you know that you need to look in your main mirror every 5 seconds to keep an eye on your surroundings? I thought that would be a safety hazard spending that much time not looking at the road! Requirement for a perfect run on the test.

      Being aware of your surroundings would reduce safety hazards for you. If there suddenly was an accident right in front of you, if you were aware of your surroundings, knowing there's no cars on the right lane, you could avoid it (provided you have a good reaction time). Also being aware of what kind of drivers are next to you will make their driving more predictable eg. Weaving in and out, tailgating, tend to break suddenly for no reason. I would stay far away from those drivers and or not drive behind talk

      also being aware of any cars speeding up from behind when approaching merging lanes.

    • Costco97 on 26/06/2015 - 09:52

      Being safe is better than being sorry!

      Shoulder and mirror checks are very important. Otherwise while driving look at how many cars have dents on the last 40% of the body. Especially to be cautious due to bikies, they could pop-up when least expected.

  • phoenixx on 24/06/2015 - 03:31

    Did you know that even when moving into those turning lanes (the kind that pop up just before a turn at an intersection) you have to do a headcheck? Even if you're moving in to it at literally the second it becomes a lane? Nobody does this but it's required to pass the test.

    That's strange, it's only a "no" in QLD. At least when I took my test.

    • lizzle on 24/06/2015 - 08:46

      Yep, I once did that when with an instructor, and he was like "What are you doing? You don't need to shoulder check when merging into a turning lane". I do check my mirrors though.

  • aztonline on 24/06/2015 - 07:54
    +1

    Even if you are a good and safe driver, the driving test is an act. There is a set of rules which you would not have known or seen any one follow. There is another set which you must ensure the person testing you must actually notice you doing that (like headchecks. Even if you think you are doing it does not mean the person observing you notices it too). So the better option is to book with a driving trainer for at least an hour and drive thru the routes. He would also help you figure out if your act is convincing enough ;)

  • daptal on 24/06/2015 - 09:03

    Where are you taking your test savwaii ? Also any body knows what the test routes are in heatherton ?

  • a2swin on 24/06/2015 - 09:07

    I only took one lesson with the driving instructor to know the local road and ask a few questions which I think will help while taking the test. I passed, easily done the very first attempt. I have to warn you that, we OS ppl sometimes are over confident on the road, because we might come from a country where traffic is a nightmare and you think if you can live in your country, there's no way you will die in here where all other drivers follow the safety rules. It doesn't work that way, a lot of my friends, be calm when you hear this, take more than 7 times for the hazard test, and 5,6 times for the drive test. of course they're like us, had a 4,5 years driving exp already, but still failed. I am the lucky one who made it the first attempt, but I rather think I tried to not drive like I used to in my country. just 50 for the first lesson to see how good/bad you are on the road, the driving instructor will tell you whether you can/cannot take the test. GL

  • cvas on 24/06/2015 - 09:14
    +1

    Ahh yes. Driving instructors in Australia. Teach the students how to pass a test, but don't actually teach them how to drive..

  • RibaldGadfly on 24/06/2015 - 09:25

    Let me give you some personal experience. I've lived in three countries, so have needed to get a license twice.
    The key thing to remember that the goal of taking a driving test is to pass the test, not to prove you can drive. This is not intuitive, but it's true.

    The first test I took, in the UK, was after a single driving lesson. I passed first go in a town (Aylesbury) that was notorious for its difficult tests.
    A relation, who held a heavy vehicle licence, failed his first test & only passed after taking a driving lesson.

    My advice: spend the money, take the test. Its about knowing what to do, what not to do, not about driving safely

  • whodidthat on 24/06/2015 - 09:40
    +1

    Be a good driver

  • SnakeDoctor on 24/06/2015 - 10:33

    Use the AAMI safe driver app ?

  • Edenshaw on 24/06/2015 - 11:03

    I repeat their instructions and feign ignorance.

  • surm on 24/06/2015 - 11:07

    OP,

    I don't live in VIC, but I have heard from numerous VIC people that an OS driver is most likely to be given a 'fail' in the driving test for a few times if they declare that they haven't taken professional driving lessons. The work around that I've heard is that one can get a driving instructor just for the driving test day. S/he will familiarise you with the possible routes and will accompany you during the test. I've been told that if you follow this, you won't be unjustifiably given a 'fail'.

    • pyramid on 24/06/2015 - 11:09

      Not true entirely. In VIC, OS drivers do not need to declare if you have got professional driving lessons.

    • surm on 24/06/2015 - 11:21

      Also, since you are an experienced OS driver (like me), you may have developed a particular driving style which is legal/appropriate in some other countries but not suitable to Australia. You will have to 'unlearn' those habits. As someone else has pointed out, give-way rules are paramount to driving in Australia. In addition, you will have to learn to do hook turns and driving with trams in Melbourne. Roundabout rules are also slightly different eg. vehicles already in the roundabout having right of way vs vehicles on the right hand side having right of way

      As already pointed out, you have to show that you follow every rule.

      "..A guy at work had his son instant failed by the Sunshine office for not checking mirrors enough – the instructor discontinued the test which is apparently only for serious safety breaches…."

      "…The quickest way to fail is to start the engine without your seatbelt on. My friend learnt the hard way…."

      You will find this thread helpful;

      http://forums.whirlpool.net.au/archive/1195670

  • Edenshaw on 24/06/2015 - 11:08

    I took one single lesson to familiarize the roads here. Anyways, the indian guy was taking calls whilst teaching so i dumped him after one lesson. Took the practical after a week and passed one go. Mind you, i drove a bit in the UK. No formal training there, no license. Just drove to shops like once a month. Do a lot of head movements, eye movements, open up a friendly chat, and repeat instructions.

  • frostman on 24/06/2015 - 11:55
    +1

    I have a theory that there's a group of RTA/VICRoads/etc test officers who are more lenient on people from a different ethnic background.
    Because it's impossible to know how a shit load of P-platers i drive next to have passed their Ls.

    Only recently, a P-Plater took 8 goes at reverse parking in a shopping centre car slot whilst narrowly missing the side mirror of the parallel car.. please dont tell me they passed the driving test.

    • [Deactivated] on 25/06/2015 - 00:44

      When you have a chance, go to Elsternwick.

      I suspect they weren't the only inept drivers to be passed.

  • schwinn on 24/06/2015 - 12:13

    I was driving on my OS licence too while at uni, then had to convert to local when I got my residency. I took the lessons, because there are certain things examiners look for during the exam, which you may forget to during your regular driving.

    Firstly, is the sequence of checks when you stop/start the car. Seat adjustments, mirrors, do you put your seat belt on before you start the car? What if you're reversing out? Do you release the handbrake before or after you check your mirrors to start moving?

    Secondly, is the sequence of actions on the road, ie changing lanes, 3 point turns, u-turns at a junction etc

    Finally, just general advice regarding driving etc. I find that instructors and examiners tend to know one another (especially when they organize the test for you), so they will be familiar with what is expected of the examiner etc.

  • kainomac on 24/06/2015 - 12:24

    Hey buddy,

    I remember being in your position in 2013 when I went for my license, booking a week before commencing the test. The whole week I was nervous about getting it the first go but it is nothing stressful at all. It is literally just like any other drive and the person who usually assesses you is very calm and relaxing to drive with. There is no need to know the route with a driving instructor or anything as it is simply just like a normal drive. Use your common sense from your driving, it is no different:
    -Know the speed limit
    -Check all mirrors every 15-20 seconds
    -Indicate
    -Give way
    -Play it safe (I remember I could have easily driven on after giving away but I had waited a bit longer than extra, while not 100% right it's better to be safe than being dangerous and just going for the hell of it)

    I had about 3 driving lessons and this was very early in my driving learning hours.

    As long as you're confident with your driving skills, you don't need any of the extras.

    All the best!

  • Sirocco on 24/06/2015 - 13:06

    This is a serious reply… but I would find someone who wants to go for a drive out to a rural area where there are few police and then practice for free.

  • Sirocco on 24/06/2015 - 13:07

    This is a serious reply… but I would find someone who wants to go for a drive out to a rural area where there are few police and then practice for free.

  • Tarnos on 24/06/2015 - 14:14

    From my experience and from talking to a number of people both OS and local, I have learned a few things about increasing the chances of passing the test:
    - You are more likely to pass if you have a driving instructor with you on the day of the test. This does a few things including, making the tester be 100% sure a mistake is a mistake as there is another set of eyes. It also gives yourself a bit more confidence especially if you have developed a bond with the instructor,
    - If you go to a very big established driving school, I have heard stories where they deliberately fail you because the instructor wants to make more money. Apparently a driving instructor at these places is judged by the number of lessons he/she gives instead of a good pass rate. Try getting recommendations for an instructor instead.
    - It would be better to do the driving test in the most rural area you can reasonably get to. Less traffic means less distractions and less chances of mistakes. Avoid school times if possible.

    Well, always remember the objective is to pass the test, even if the test does not mean you are a good driver.

  • supaderp on 24/06/2015 - 14:17

    Driving test is the cost of an hour ride with an instructor anyways. Just give it a go.

    • [Deactivated] on 25/06/2015 - 00:45

      Some instructors will charge a lot more if you want to do a practice driving test.

      Personal experience.

  • outlander on 24/06/2015 - 14:53

    I failed twice before I got my license. Here are my tips
    * Don't be happy. First 2 times I tried to be friendly, and I guess it came across as naive or something, because they felt they needed to take me down a peg. Last guy actually commented that the only time I smiled was when I got my photo taken.
    * If you do it in your own car, make sure the climate control is working. First time I went it was 30c outside, and my AC was broken. The blonde woman was squirming in her skirt the whole time because of the heat. It really did not put her in a good mood when it came time to mark
    * Book a time outside of school hours. If you go over 40 and your in a school zone, its an instant fail. One less thing to worry about
    * Familiarise yourself with the car your driving. You need to know where hazards are, lights, demister front and back,
    * If you have to do a three point turn, pick a part of the street with no cars around, preferrably one with an extra wide driveway. Only drive half way up the driveway. It still counts, and its far less likely you'll run over the curb (points deducted)
    * Even if the rear view mirror and chair are already adjusted to suit you, make sure you do it again to show the instructor you know how to make yourself comfortable
    * Make sure all lights are working on the car you take. I had to postpone my test, because the instructor noticed that the top brake light wasn't working. Didn't even know I had one
    * Confirm any instructions if your unclear. If the instructor says 'make the next right turn' say 'this street just here?' Sometimes they can be vague, so its worth checking
    * Fit a GPS with a speed display. You shouldn't be relying on it to tell you the speed limit, but if you get caught out it can save you from a speed violation. I know in oakleigh, the instructors will often take you down a road. On this road theres no signs that you can see, and the road is so wide and easy you might assume its 60. Its not, its 50, which is the default speed in victoria. They do this to trip people up
    * Go easy on the acceleration, and try to keep within 5km of the speed limit. This point is optional, but the instructor got a bit annoyed with me the first time I went because I wasn't going fast enough.

    Hope thats of help to you, and good luck. And try and take it easy. Although you know they are going to try and trip you up, theres so many ways they can do it that trying to double-guess everything will make you too anxious and you will mess up the easy stuff. Just take it easy, and don't focus so much on getting it right the first time. You can always try again, and theres no prizes for coming first in this race.

    • [Deactivated] on 25/06/2015 - 00:47

      Would a GPS device be allowed during the test?

      Generally the tester's word will be taken as true, and these days GPS records alone are not admissible against ordinary speeding offences either.

  • whatthecrappin on 24/06/2015 - 15:00

    I passed the first time, BUT no way I would have passed without hints from the instructor (note it may not be relevant, but I did mine 20 years ago)

    Hold the steering wheel at the 10 and 2 o'clock
    make sure you check the rear view mirror constantly! I did that and still lost points for not checking enough. Personally I think they do that on purpose
    Its really low, but the instructor warned me on the lesson that I would go through an intersection where the giveway sign was hard to see…………
    Dont get over confident and drum your fingers on the wheel to imaginary music. My instructor hated that so I assume the assessor will to :)
    Perform head checks and indicate early. REALLY EARLY
    DONT SPEED. It might be a rumour but I heard instant failure if you stall?
    Slow down to a near stop is not the same as stopping! Make it damn obvious you have stopped when you have to!

    • [Deactivated] on 25/06/2015 - 00:50

      I believe so - if you stall a manual, that is termed a 'serious' error or something to that effect.

      That means curtains right there and then.

  • centrelink on 24/06/2015 - 15:09

    I've seen so many people who think they are good in league of legends but are bronze 5

  • lplau on 24/06/2015 - 15:12

    Funny post.
    There is no trick to passing a test.

    Being a OS driver doesn't make you any better.
    I remember overhearing at VicRoads awhile ago where a OS driver said "I couldn't have failed the Learners Test, I have been driving OS for 20 years!"

    Also overheard a similar comment made by another driver who failed their P test lol.

    You may think you have been doing something correct for the last 4 years doesn't mean you are actually doing it correctly. It is best to get at least 1 lesson with a qualified trainer who has many years experience. They can give you tips about the possible test routes and take you through a few of them. They can also tell you what you are doing wrong.

    You'd be surprised how many people get a Hook Turn wrong although they thought they were doing it correct.

    It costs like $70 for a lesson and like $300 for the test, ask yourself, do you want to skimp out on that $70 which may have saved you from paying an extra $300 if you failed. lol.

  • youbeokay on 24/06/2015 - 15:14

    I held my OS license for nearly 4 years, and got my NSW Full licence with one road test, of course, without my 1 hour driving course, i am sure i won't be able to pass the test, even with my 4 years driving experience in Sydney with zero traffic offences.

    OS license holders are not necessary the bad driver in OZ, however, i got to admit that many os licence holders need to take some driving course before putting their hands on the steering wheel.

    to the OP, i strongly suggest that you should take at least a hour of driving practice, so that you know what exactly the instructor is expecting from you, often than not, the experienced one fails more those with much driving skills.

  • Livert on 24/06/2015 - 17:36

    If your confidence matches your driving ability, you will pass.

  • lonix on 24/06/2015 - 18:31

    I passed my licence back in 1996, lots has changed since then, so I can't offer any advice there, but all the info you need should be in your learners guide book, well, at least it used to be in 1996, just make sure you know all the rules, practice your reverse parking etc.

  • Ovazealous on 24/06/2015 - 19:16

    I passed on my first attempt in December '14. I have two older siblings and they both passed on their first attempt also - didn't have an issue. We did all have a few lessons with the same driving instructor who was also an ambulance driver; there's a lot they will notice about the way you drive that you don't notice or that your supervisor won't notice. What I really found helped with my instructor was that he had a firm focus on helping us actually becoming a good driver for the long term. The focus was not to learn all the specifics in how to pass an annoying test by doing the routes over and over, but to actually learn how to drive safely in different situations.

    I think being able to pass the test doesn't make you a "good" driver, but being a "good" driver gives you a good shot at passing the test.

  • Pterodactyl on 24/06/2015 - 19:24

    I passed in my first go… after taking lessons. Just do it OP, the testers want to fail you and there are various laws that people rarely follow on the road but you'll get done for in the test. Save yourself the angst.

  • Randxyz123 on 24/06/2015 - 21:21

    Did you know that you need to look in your main mirror every 5 seconds to keep an eye on your surroundings? I thought that would be a safety hazard spending that much time not looking at the road! Requirement for a perfect run on the test.

    THIS… My examiner went off on a rant about this. I still passed first attempt though :)

    Anyway

    Get some lessons. The how do I put this… Driving Style might be different in your home country. Not trying to be offensive here but the instructor might point out something your doing that will cause you to fail instantly.

    For me I tended to drift into the other lanes if I was in the middle lane and not check my mirrors enough. Everyone has little bad habits. Lessons aren't that expensive and in my opinion it is worth it.

  • [Deactivated] on 24/06/2015 - 22:06

    Here's what I'd do - hire a trainer to test you. Pay only couple of lessons and ask him to test you and point mistakes as they do in the tests.

  • OldSchoolHarry on 24/06/2015 - 23:13

    I passed the test in 2nd try without ever taking any lessons. (First time I did not turn my neck "enough" while reversing because the road was completely empty and I had reversing camera and blind spot sensors etc.. I did check the mirrors though.). Moreover, it also depends on your examiner. If he is a bit laid back you probably will pass it even with minor errors.

  • [Deactivated] on 25/06/2015 - 00:56

    I cleared the test on my first attempt (in a manual car), and I presume that you have a manual vehicle too.

    Keep in mind, that if you pass your test in a manual vehicle you are able to drive both automatic and manual transmissions during your P period. Passing your test on automatic will result in an A condition on your P licence which means you cannot drive manual cars.

    Beside the point, don't rely on a particular testing centre's perceived leniency, a centre's possible test routes or anecdotal stories to supplement your driving. You should ideally let your driving do the talking, and truth be told your driving should be as good as the 'test' standard every time you get behind the wheel.

    That's the point of the test.

  • antzz on 25/06/2015 - 02:25
    +1

    I have a friend during uni where he drives all the time for 4 years. Never had accident nor fine tickets whatsoever. He needed 7 times driving test to get his full license.

    Most asian os driver will fail the test especially if they learn to drive back at home. Overseas trained driver is some of the most unsafe driver in the world and worst of all they do not realize it.

    Look at street in india china indonesia thailand malaysia and you know exactly what I meant. Even at south korea you will find people drives aggressively and not safe.

    My point is that you are confident because you dont know what you dont know. Go get the test but make sure book second one in advance as you will need it

    • Randxyz123 on 25/06/2015 - 10:27

      I am shocked you are allowed to take 7 attempts to pass. In my opinion If you don't pass on the 3rd attempt in my opinion you should have to do another 20 hours of experience and wait another 6 months because clearly you cannot drive in a safe enough way(no offence to anyone who has taken more than 3 attempts)
      At least 5 hours of those must be with an instructor.

      The test is what… $45? so 45* 7 = $315

      • antzz on 25/06/2015 - 23:21

        He needs license for professional jobs after uni. He can not get license for almost 2 years. This was in sydney so might be different than melb. All the mistakes was silly like hand cross during wheel turning, not looking back mirror often enough, breaking suddenly etc. Everytime different cause. What I want to say is that being confident doesn't mean you are safe driver. Sometimes it makes you dangerous. Safe driver care about other drivers and think what the other driver most likely will do soon and prepare for reaction

        • Randxyz123 on 25/06/2015 - 23:37

          All the mistakes was silly like hand cross during wheel turning,

          What? You don't or shouldn't get marked down for that.

          breaking suddenly

          Well that actually is dangerous…

          I do mostly agree with you the OP likely has habits from overseas that aren't acceptable here.

  • MementoMori on 25/06/2015 - 09:27

    It BLOWS MY MIND that people are such TIGHT ASSES when it comes to this.

    People won't pay $50 for life long driving skills that could save their life one day (or someone else's life), but happily spend 10x that on a phone they'll use for 2 years. If a lesson saves you one minor scrape in your life that could save you $500 easy.

    Pay for a few lessons!

    • imc123 on 25/06/2015 - 09:42

      i dont think being a tightass has anything to do with it; if someone was doing 60 on the on-ramp to the freeway because they are scared to go faster, whether you have an instructor or not with you still does not make you a safe driver, 90% of driving with an instructor is to learn the rules, the rest requires you to practise what they tell you.

      • Randxyz123 on 25/06/2015 - 10:23

        90% of driving with an instructor is to learn the rules, the rest requires you to practise what they tell you.

        What rubbish. When I first learnt to drive ( about 6 years ago now ) I felt more confident with the instructor than with my parents mostly because the instructor could go for the other set of brakes if necessary.

        • imc123 on 25/06/2015 - 12:10

          fair enough, but confident drivers arent likely to end up in situations where the instructor would need to take over

        • Randxyz123 on 25/06/2015 - 14:42

          @imc123: My point is from all my comments that you should get a few lessons.

          Completely worth it.

      • MementoMori on 25/06/2015 - 13:39

        The problem is people ususally learn from their parents (who also think they're 'good drivers').

        Who knows what bad habits you've picked up.

        e.g. I hard know anybody who actually turns their head for a blind spot check.

  • herbertg21 on 25/06/2015 - 10:14
    +2

    Just dont speed, intentionally look at the rear view mirror before merging lanes, head checks, dont hit kerbs, learn to park and the route doesnt matter. Passed 1st go without an instructor, knew many people that did too.

    In regards to overseas drivers, I havent met many that are any good because theyre rubbish drivers or really complacent as theyre overconfident and developed thier own driving habits that dont suit the driving test like driving one handed and no headchecks.

    So I would at least pay for 1 lesson (30 bux for 40 minutes) to simulate how it will be with a tester because they will at least identify the faults that will make you fail.

    • lostn on 25/06/2015 - 19:36

      So I would at least pay for 1 lesson (30 bux for 40 minutes)

      That is cheap. If you can get lessons for that price, do it. Even 10 years ago I couldn't get lessons anywhere near that cheap.

      • herbertg21 on 26/06/2015 - 09:27

        i got my p's late 2000's - thats how much it was for me back then in the western subs of melb. That was market rate too when i shopped around

  • cho0kie on 25/06/2015 - 11:09

    I got mine 1st go but I got paid for an instructor.

    I was driving for 4 years with my parents and boyfriend until I finally got around to get my P's I had clocked up more than 300 hours. My parents even brought me a car before I even got my P's. I had driven from Melbourne to Brisbane and back. I STILL GOT 5 lessons! you want to get lessons because then you get to use the instructors car and normally they have a smaller car ( I learnt to drive in a Holden commodore) plus the instructor sits in the front with you and the assessor in the back, Its gonna be nerve racking no matter how well / confident you drive and having a "familiar" person is great.

    My only advice to the test is check your mirrors, you might think you're doing it enough but your not and the assessors don't notice little glances and if they are looking down and writing stuff and they miss it, you might not look enough and boom you failed.

    My advice is get an instructor they know heaps of tips, but if your "confident" then go for it and you will either get you P's YAY or you will have to rebook your test.

  • minimz on 25/06/2015 - 12:26

    My brother and I both managed to pass the test on our first try and our parents taught us everything, only having to go to an instructor twice. I understand that many people who are great at driving may not pass the test their first time and here's a few tricks (assuming you are really a great driver).

    First thing is that you need to do is make sure you are polite and wear appropriate clothing. I'm not talking formal, but something that makes you look like a calm, genuinely friendly person (like knitwear). Don't look like you're on your way to a party or just woke up. This just indicates that you don't look like someone who will speed up, drink or text while driving after they got their drivers license - take all the brownie points you can get. Greet them with a handshake and a smile, like you would if you met your future father in law for the first time. If you have parents there, bring them along and have them route for you! Makes you seem less like a bad kid.

    Second thing is to remain calm. Someone who gets anxious while driving obviously shouldn't drive - even in test conditions. My mum booked my test way too early after I've only driven for a few weeks, so I had a reason to fail and I didn't expect much, putting less pressure on me. Like you said, most people don't pass their first try, so that takes pressure off of you to pass on your first go. Less pressure = less chance of being anxious. Be confident, but not cocky.

    Third thing is, make sure you have done your research on the areas you will be tested, know where the safe places to do three point turns etc.

    On a side note, what makes a good driver? I think things like:
    - Checking your rear/side mirrors at least every 10 seconds to know the cars in your surroundings even if you aren't changing lanes anytime soon
    - ability to align yourself in your lane (especially at curved roads… wayyyy too many people eat in to the other lane at a curved section of the road)
    - ability to slow down at the appropriate time everytime so that if you had a basketball on the car seat, it would not roll off the chair
    - remembering roads and streets
    - signalling with appropriate timing
    - ability to gauge common hazards that other drivers make (such as cutting corners, speeding, not stopping at stop sign, not signalling) and take appropriate counter measures
    - the ability to react on time at the traffic lights (two seconds after the light turns green before you lift your brakes is too long)
    - knowing the right rev to change gears (for manual drivers) that optimises speed, noise and maintenance of vehicle
    - parking on your first try without even thinking about it much (second try is ok, but it better be perfect)

    I could list so many more, but most people know this after a few years of driving. Never boast that you are a good driver, even if you really think so because it brings about complacency. At the end of the day you could get in an accident even if it wasn't your fault and it could have been avoided if you knew how to control the hazards. So always think of the potential hazards and know how to deal with them.

  • bdl on 25/06/2015 - 12:51

    HAS THE OP TAKEN THE TEST AND PASSED YET? :)

  • mikkim4eva on 25/06/2015 - 15:46

    Why is there an argument when no one knows exactly how well or how bad the OP drives…

    Pay 60 bux for a lesson and ask the instructor to give you feedback on what you should/shouldn't be doing… End of argument!

    The driving test is just the norm to see if you can
    1.drive the car, know your car (a friend borrowed my car at the time which the honk is a button from the indicator and the instructor asked where is the honk, he didn't know and failed automatically because the car was deemed unsafe to be driven…)

    2.not speeding/not driving too slow

    3.check your mirrors(lots of them and move your head while checking)

    4.shoulder checking (I know when I come from, they don't have this rule and my dad would freak out because I shoulder check and not looking at the front)

    1. know the road rules, indicating, give way, stop sign, round abouts, U-turns, school zone, build up area etc (I know a couple of peeps that hasn't seen a round about in their lifetime)

    2. and parking… this shouldn't be a problem if you are use to driving around Europe/Asia, parking spots here are way too big haha

    TL;DR
    Drive like a overly cautious male/female and know your road rules.

  • TRANCE on 25/06/2015 - 15:56

    I didn't have any lessons and passed the test on first go. You just need to know a few things. Proper steering technique and proper signal/mirror/head check/lane change technique. You need to be able to parallel park and know the road rules like where you should give way etc. If you can do all these then you will pass.

    I had friends who did have lessons, who told me what the instructor had told them about the techniques I mentioned, so you do need to know what they want you to do. It is quite simple really. If you have any friends who have had lessons asking them should be enough, as it was for me.

  • hamwhisperer on 25/06/2015 - 16:40

    Important lesson I learnt:

    The touchscreen thing at the end is a god.damned.@#%$ing scam to raise money.
    When you do the touchscreen thing, you do NOT have to answer all questions!

    There's a trick question "touch the screen when it's safe to pass" - in my opinion it wasn't safe to pass, period - but they don't tell you that.
    First play of the video, I didn't touch the screen, it said "you didn't touch the screen, try again" (something like that, repeated) so the second play, I tapped the screen ASAP because we were heading towards a roundabout behind a motorbike, I do NOT want to pass.. but they've told me "you didn't touch the screen" …..

    So because I failed that quesion on the touchscreen, I failed the "computer" section of the test and therefore $20 to do the stupid test again.
    Revenue raising

    Bear this in mind before anyone replies…

    I SUCCESSFULLY passed the driving test with an instructor and tester in the vehicle earlier, safely and quite well. I took the lives of 2 other humans, on the Victorian roads, amongst society - they clearly found me safe enough to drive amongst the real world and I passed it, quite well. BUT the IDIOT computer test is AFTER the actual real life one.
    (At least when I did it)
    So because one, tricky worded question, there goes $20 - bastards.
    (Note: this was 18 years ago, god I'm old…. but think of $20 as $50 now,.. just for revenue raising)

    So illogical / lame.

  • TurkishDelight on 25/06/2015 - 17:52
    +1

    dude every one passes at fist time if they know how to drive and proper rules

  • lostn on 25/06/2015 - 19:35

    The trick is being prepared.. getting enough lessons and time behind the wheel.

    Get an instructor who attends driving tests with their clients, and get him to take you on the route the testers use, and test you on all the things a tester would ask you to do. Once you can do this perfectly, do it a few more times, and you should be able to do it in the real test. When he/she is satisfied you will pass the test, then book the test.

    There's no secret or conspiracy where Vicroads will deliberately try to fail you so they can make you rebook and earn more money off you. People who claim they were a victim of this and failed the first try are just making excuses to justify why they weren't ready or experienced enough to pass it the first go.

    I got 24/25 on my first go, which is 96%. I only had under 30 hours of practice (I kept a log book). They recommended 120. I had one lesson a week with an instructor for half a year, didn't even get any practice at home until the final week before the test. But every week, I ran the same course that a Vicroads tester would send you to (we ran all possible routes they could have selected). I started passing with flying colors around the 20 hour mark. I actually think I was overprepared, but wasn't confident because they said you needed 120 hours before taking the test, and I'd had nowhere near that amount.

    If you know all the road rules, and what mistakes will get you an instant failure, you shouldn't fail. If you fail those, you don't understand the basics and aren't ready.

    That is all.

  • Davo1111 on 25/06/2015 - 21:09

    I passed first go, in a manual after only spending 10-13 of the 120 logged hours in a manual car. The rest was done in auto

    my tips

  • KayaToast on 25/06/2015 - 23:48

    I took my driving license last year in April 2014, I passed it in one go without any mistakes whatsoever. I only took one driving lesson just so i get a different perspective of my driving compared to my parents. Take at least one driving lesson just to get a someone else's opinion on your driving habits. As long as you are an observant person you should be fine, just try to find out which vicroads you are being tested at and drive around that area as much as possible. Once you become confident that you know all the road rules around that area it would be easy to pass the test.

  • lindol on 26/06/2015 - 00:49

    you have been driving illegally in australia for the past 4 years.
    overseas driver license are valid only for 3 months in australia. after that you have to get an australian driver license.
    the alternative is getting an international driver license..but that does not last 4 years.
    not a smart thing starting your life in australia by driving illegally

  • 2ndeffort on 26/06/2015 - 12:01
    +2

    I passed on first attempt but that was 30 years ago. I only hired the instructor for 1 lesson then my test day, he said I needed a course of 8 lessons, I said no. He said without his full program I was wasting my time, no way would i pass. At the test centre on the day he was not happy but when the examiner came out to the car all i had to do was drive around the corner from the test centre and park in front of a food shop. The examiner got out and went into the shop for 10 mins, while the examiner was in there, the instructor from the back seat was telling me loads of negative stuff about mistakes i was making etc, telling me why i needed more lessons and what a mistake it was to do this test without his 8 lesson program. The examiner came out of the shop after 10 mins with an armful of lunch orders then had me drive him straight back to the VicRoads office, whole thing was probably 5 Km, round the block trip. he made me do the obligatory reverse parking at the Vicroads carpark when we got back. We got out of the car and went inside and waited for another 10 mins whilst he handed out all the staff's sandwiches etc then he came over and told me i passed. he said i forgot to flick an indicator back on when it flicked off mid-turn so i lost a couple of points for that but otherwise OK, licence given. Instructor was furious, told me i was very lucky, i just laughed and said goodbye….with my licence!

    • BargainInAustralia on 11/07/2015 - 12:15

      thanks for that useless post 2ndeffort, which doesn't help anyone in 2015.

      • 2ndeffort on 12/07/2015 - 23:58

        And thank you for being the thought police to single my post out. I assume every one of the 2 pages full of posts above contain vital hints and tricks for licence seekers? I hope you have read every one and posted similar criticisms against the ones that don't meet your criteria.

  • mjjeje on 26/06/2015 - 14:56

    I paid for a 1 hour lesson and specified that I am gonna take a driving test. The instructor then took me to the test route (not exactly the same route but similar) and pin point what I should/shouldn't do. Might be a good idea to take the instructor to the actual test as well. Passed mine in one go.

  • lgacb08 on 26/06/2015 - 20:28

    driving test in Vic is easy like cake compared to NSW, they only require you to do only 1 slow manoeuvre so it's either 3 point turn or reverse park while back in NSW they tested both of these on my licence.

  • MementoMori on 30/06/2015 - 16:36

    Update please! Has the OP passed?

  • piggiepanda on 06/07/2015 - 16:16

    Its funny how most of the comments are about being a good driver or confident driver… At the end of the day, you can be the #1 safest most confident driver in the world it and it wouldnt matter because you only need 1 idiot who has no understanding nor responsibility for the safety of others and him/herself to cause an accident, become a hazard or harm to you.

    Not saying that we should be ignorant, if everyone had the mentality of being the #1 safest driver this world would probably be a safe world… xD

    btw, did OP take the test? how did it go??

  • BargainInAustralia on 11/07/2015 - 12:13

    another foreigner who thinks they can circumvent learning their state/territories driving rules.

    until you have professional training from an instructor, how would you know what our rules are?

    this isn't overseas, this is australia and no-one cares how long you held a car licence from overseas.

    • 2ndeffort on 13/07/2015 - 00:01

      Arent you just the fun poster today! As with the criticism of my post above, your post adds nothing, it simply echoes similar comments made 10 or 15 times previously. Thanks for being so judgmental though, I know I am all the better for knowing that you stand ready and awake as the custodian of moral virtue able to know at an instant all about the OP's insidious plans to circumvent our licencing scheme

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