This article will most definitely save your life when it comes to driving. I, myself, have been to four different places and know a good deal of what most instructors are looking for in a driver. When a person turns 16, most people think driver’s license and being able to obtain some independence in the world, but slow down. Before the license, you have to deal with a little piece of paper called the Driving Learner’s Permit.
This is what you use to get comfortable with driving for six months. So it's fun being able to drive, but after a while, you're probably dying for a license. This is where the knowledge test comes in. PennDOT, the driving center, sticks you in your with a strange man that you've never met before. This man will judge your knowledge, or, more realistically, how many mistakes you make. Driving instructors have a reputation for being evil and they do live up to this, as they pinpoint every little problem with your driving. Although people do believe these instructors to be devilish, what they ridicule actually does matter in the world of driving. The first task you will demonstrate is your parallel parking ability. You will be required to in a fairly good sized parking spot made of barrels on each side. Beware if you have a van, though, as it is a bit tougher to park with them because they are so large. During the parking process, you WILL be allowed to use a back up camera as long as your car provides one. Make sure you park as if you were on the real road. So, use turn signals going in and out of the spot and look around like there are real cars there. You will be allowed to put the car in reverse three times during the process, so be prepared to fix any mistakes you potentially make. Remember that you will not be passing if any part of your car is on a line. If you do not pass, the instructor will not take you for the rest of the road test.
If you are fortunate to pass parallel parking, you will be permitted on the road. Every test is different. As previously stated, I have been to four different places and the expectations were different in all four. Basically, you will have to turn right, turn left, and maintain the speed limit of the area you're in. Seems pretty simple, but other more specific tasks vary from place to place.
In busier places like Bridgeville and Washington, you will be required to change lanes on the road. You must make sure that you check side and rear view mirrors and blind spots. You will fail if you don't check all those places before you move. You will also see more traffic lights, so, when turning, make sure you stay out of the intersection if it is not “safe” enough to turn.
In smaller places, like New Kensington and Kittanning, you will not have to do as much, but they are a bit harder on you. You will be required to turn into moving traffic and make a u-turn. Make sure all cars are gone before you turn and make sure you use turn signals whenever you change direction, including u-turns. If not, you will fail.
All this advice may seem obvious to some, but it can easily be forgotten. For all people that may be stressed over this, just remember that good drivers do fail all the time. Personally, I failed three times just because I psyched myself out about what and what not to know. Just be confident in what you know and drive. With these tips, you'll be one step closer to your own personal independence.