Earning your truck driving licence in Australia is a major milestone, but passing the trucking commercial driving test can be challenging. Even experienced drivers can make mistakes that result in failing the test. Understanding these common mistakes can help you prepare better, avoid pitfalls, and increase your chances of success on the first attempt.
In this blog, we’ll discuss the most frequent errors made by candidates and provide actionable tips to help you pass your heavy vehicle driving test with confidence.
1. Inadequate Pre-Trip Inspection
Why This is a Mistake
The pre-trip vehicle inspection is a crucial part of the trucking test, and failing to conduct it thoroughly can result in an automatic failure. Examiners expect drivers to demonstrate a comprehensive understanding of vehicle safety checks.
How to Avoid It
- Check brakes, tyres, lights, indicators, wipers, and mirrors before starting the test.
- Ensure your logbook is up to date and meets compliance standards.
- Look for leaks, loose connections, and worn-out components in the engine bay.
- Follow a systematic approach to avoid missing any steps.
2. Poor Steering Control
Why This is a Mistake
Maintaining control of the truck, especially during turns and lane changes, is essential. Oversteering or understeering can indicate poor vehicle handling skills.
How to Avoid It
- Use both hands on the steering wheel and avoid resting one hand on the gear lever.
- Practice smooth and steady turns without jerky movements.
- Avoid overcorrecting if you drift slightly off course.
3. Improper Lane Positioning
Why This is a Mistake
Staying in the correct lane is critical for road safety. Drifting, riding the lane markings, or failing to position correctly before turns can result in point deductions or failure.
How to Avoid It
- Maintain a safe distance from the curb and other vehicles.
- Use mirrors frequently to check positioning.
- Stay centred in your lane and adjust gradually when necessary.
4. Ignoring Road Signs and Traffic Signals
Why This is a Mistake
Failing to obey stop signs, yield signs, or speed limits can lead to an immediate fail. Examiners assess your ability to follow road rules and react appropriately.
How to Avoid It
- Pay close attention to road signs, especially speed limits in school zones and construction areas.
- Always come to a complete stop at stop signs and red lights.
- Look both ways before proceeding at intersections.
5. Incorrect Use of Mirrors and Blind Spots
Why This is a Mistake
Trucks have large blind spots, and failing to check them before lane changes or turns can lead to serious safety issues.
How to Avoid It
- Perform a head check before changing lanes.
- Adjust mirrors before starting the test for maximum visibility.
- Regularly scan mirrors to stay aware of surrounding traffic.
6. Poor Clutch and Gear Control (For Manual Trucks)
Why This is a Mistake
Rough gear changes, stalling, or excessive clutch use can make driving unsafe and uncomfortable.
How to Avoid It
- Practise smooth gear shifts by matching engine speed with road speed.
- Avoid riding the clutch as it can cause unnecessary wear.
- Downshift properly when slowing down instead of coasting in neutral
7. Failure to Use Proper Braking Techniques
Why This is a Mistake
Improper braking can lead to loss of control, especially when driving a heavy vehicle.
How to Avoid It
- Use progressive braking rather than sudden stops.
- When driving downhill, use engine braking to avoid overheating the brakes.
- Maintain a safe following distance to allow for smooth braking.
8. Not Adjusting to Weather Conditions
Why This is a Mistake
Driving in rain, fog, or strong winds requires adjustments to ensure safety.
How to Avoid It
- Reduce speed in wet or slippery conditions.
- Increase following distance to compensate for longer stopping distances.
- Use fog lights when visibility is low, but turn them off when not needed.
9. Nervousness and Lack of Confidence
Why This is a Mistake
Examiners assess not only your technical skills but also your confidence and composure under pressure.
How to Avoid It
- Practise driving under test conditions to get comfortable.
- Take deep breaths and stay calm throughout the test.
- Trust your training and avoid second-guessing yourself.
10. Not Practising Enough Before the Test
Why This is a Mistake
Many candidates fail due to a lack of practice, leading to errors in manoeuvring, parking, and general road awareness.
How to Avoid It
- Enrol in a reputable truck driving school for proper training.
- Practise in different traffic conditions, including highways and urban roads.
- Take mock tests to identify and correct mistakes before the actual exam.
Conclusion
Passing your commercial trucking driving test in Australia requires careful preparation, adherence to road rules, and practical driving skills. By avoiding these common mistakes and following the tips above, you can increase your chances of passing on the first attempt.
For professional training and guidance, consider Tokhi Driving Solutions, where expert instructors help you master the skills needed to become a safe and confident truck driver.
Need help preparing for your test? Contact Tokhi Driving Solutions today!
FAQs
1. What are the most common reasons for failing the trucking commercial driving test?
The most common reasons include inadequate pre-trip inspection, poor lane positioning, failure to check blind spots, improper braking, and lack of confidence during the test.
2. How can I improve my chances of passing the trucking driving test on the first attempt?
Practise regularly, understand road rules, perform thorough vehicle inspections, use proper braking techniques, and stay calm during the test. Enrolling in a reputable truck driving school can also help.
3. Is the pre-trip inspection really important for the driving test?
Yes, failing to conduct a thorough pre-trip inspection can result in an automatic fail. Examiners expect drivers to demonstrate proper safety checks before starting the test.
4. What should I do if I feel nervous before my trucking test?
Take deep breaths, stay focused, and remind yourself of your training. Practising with a professional instructor beforehand can also boost your confidence.
5. How can I avoid failing due to poor gear control in a manual truck?
Practise smooth gear shifts, avoid riding the clutch, and downshift properly when slowing down. Matching engine speed with road speed will help ensure smoother gear changes.
6. What’s the best way to handle blind spots during the test?
Always check your mirrors frequently and perform a head check before changing lanes or making turns. Adjust your mirrors properly before starting the test.
7. Can bad weather affect my driving test results?
Yes, weather conditions like rain, fog, or strong winds require extra caution. Reduce your speed, increase following distance, and use appropriate lights to maintain visibility.
8. What should I do if I make a small mistake during the test?
Stay calm and continue driving safely. A minor mistake may not necessarily lead to failure if you demonstrate overall good driving skills.
