Prepare to Pass

  • A Guide to Booking and Preparing for the VORT Test

    Introduction

     

    In South Australia, the Vehicle On Road Test (VORT) is the practical driving exam that learner drivers must pass to obtain their provisional driver’s license. This comprehensive assessment evaluates a driver’s ability to safely operate a vehicle on public roads, ensuring that all drivers on the road are competent and capable of driving safely.

     

    Preparation is paramount when it comes to taking the VORT. It is essential to familiarize yourself with the test requirements, including the specific criteria and skills evaluated during the exam. This allows you to focus your preparation efforts on areas that require improvement. Additionally, booking your VORT test in advance is vital to secure your preferred date and time, avoiding unnecessary delays and ensuring you have time to practice and refine your driving abilities.

     

    In this article, we will discuss some tips on how to find a good driving instructor in Adelaide, as well as the steps you need to take to get a driving license in South Australia. Whether you are a new driver or looking to upgrade your license, this article will provide you with the information you need to get started.

    Understand the VORT Test

     

    The VORT is a comprehensive driving practical test, that assesses your ability to drive safely on public road. It covers a range of driving skills including low speed manoeuvring and navigating a general driving route. It’s crucial to understand the VORT test criteria and what the examiner will be looking for during the test.

     

    The VORT test criteria in South Australia include vehicle control, observation, and hazard perception. You will need to demonstrate your ability to control the vehicle smoothly and safely, observe traffic and road conditions and respond appropriately to potential hazards. The hazard perception criterion of the VORT test evaluates your ability to recognize and respond appropriately to potential hazards on the road. This includes hazards such as other vehicles, pedestrians, animals, and unexpected situations like changes in traffic flow or road conditions. You will need to demonstrate your ability to identify potential hazards and respond appropriately through actions such as adjusting your speed, signalling, and taking evasive action when necessary. In addition to this, you will also be required to demonstrate five, slow-speed manoeuvres. A qualified driving instructor can help you understand the test criteria and provide you with tips to pass your driving test in South Australia.

     

    Find an Accredited VORT Instructor

     

    When it comes to preparing for the VORT test, choosing an accredited instructor is paramount. There are many VORT driving instructors in Adelaide, but not all are created equal. Opting for an accredited instructor ensures that you receive the highest quality of instruction and guidance. An accredited instructor possesses the necessary expertise and knowledge to guide you through the test requirements and help you develop the skills needed to succeed. Accredited instructors have undergone rigorous training and have demonstrated their proficiency in assessing driving skills. They are equipped with up-to-date knowledge of road rules, regulations, and test procedures, giving you the best chance at passing first time. When evaluating the reputation and credibility of providers, consider reading reviews and testimonials from previous students. A reputable provider will have both negative and positive feedback to take on board as part of your learning outcome and a track record of successful outcomes. Additionally, check if the provider offers a structured and comprehensive program that covers all aspects of the test. It’s also beneficial to inquire about the instructor’s experience, their pass rates and any additional support or resources they provide to help you prepare effectively.

     

    Contact Your VORT Instructor and Schedule Pre-Test Training, a Test Date and Time

     

    It is quite a simple process to schedule your VORT Test. In South Australia, qualified driving instructors are responsible for both your driving training as well as scheduling your VORT test with a certified examiner. These examiners are certified by the Department of Infrastructure and Transport to administer VORT test. When you qualify to complete your VORT test, contact your driving instructor with your preferred days and times of training and also to complete the test. When choosing a suitable date and time for the test, your Instructor ill consider factors such as your level of preparedness and availability. Choose a date when you feel confident in your driving skills and have had enough practice. Additionally, consider your personal schedule and commitments to find a time slot that works best for you. Once you have given the driving instructor all of the required information, they will liase with the examiner to organise your driving test also.

     

     

    Prepare for the VORT Test

     

    To best prepare for the VORT test, it is crucial to focus on practicing driving skills and familiarizing yourself with the specific requirements of the test. Regular practice allows you to build confidence, improve your vehicle control and enhance your overall driving abilities. Familiarize yourself with the road rules, traffic signs, and safe driving practices that will be assessed during the test. If you feel the need for additional guidance and instruction, it may be beneficial to seek professional assistance and enrol in a driving course. Professional instructors can provide valuable insights, offer constructive feedback, and help you fine-tune your driving skills. They can also guide you through the specific requirements of the VORT test and offer targeted practice sessions to address any areas of weakness.

     

    In addition to practicing and understanding the test criteria, there are a few general tips you should follow before taking your VORT. Getting plenty of rest the night before your VORT is important to ensure you are alert and focused during the test. Eating a healthy breakfast can also give you the energy you need to perform well. Creating a comprehensive before driving checklist is an essential part of preparing for your driving test in South Australia. This checklist serves as a reminder to cover all the necessary aspects before starting your journey. Remember that the VORT is designed to evaluate your driving skills and help you become a safe and responsible driver.

     

    Conclusion

     

    Booking a VORT test involves a series of key steps that are essential for a smooth and successful experience. Firstly, ensure you are well-prepared and organized by familiarizing yourself with the requirements and regulations of the test. Contact the VORT Instructor directly to obtain accurate information and clarify any queries. Select suitable dates and times for all your pre-test training and your test, considering your readiness and availability. Plan ahead and book your test well in advance to secure your preferred slot. By following these steps, you will increase your chances of success in the VORT test. Remember to stay focused, confident and calm during the test and trust in the preparation you have undertaken.

     

    Take the next step towards your goals by booking a driving lesson with Prepare to Pass. Our experienced instructors are dedicated to helping you master the skills and knowledge needed to get your licence. Benefit from our tailored guidance, comprehensive practice sessions and insider tips to maximize your chances of success. Don’t leave your results to chance, invest in professional instruction and drive your way to success. Book your driving lessons with Prepare to Pass today and embark on a journey towards becoming a skilled and responsible driver.

  • How Many Mistakes Can You Make on the VORT Test?

    1. Introduction

     

    Driving is an essential aspect of modern life, and obtaining a driver’s license is a significant achievement for many young Australians. However, the process of obtaining a license can be daunting, especially for those who lack experience. In South Australia, the Vehicle On Road Test (VORT) is the practical driving exam that candidates must pass to obtain their driver’s license. This comprehensive assessment evaluates a driver’s ability to safely operate a vehicle on public roads, ensuring that all drivers on the road are competent and capable of driving safely. If you are looking for a driving instructor in Adelaide, there are several tips you can follow to make your search easier. In this article, we will discuss how many mistakes you can make on the VORT test, tips to passing the South Australian driving test, and tips on how to find a driving instructor in Adelaide.

    South Australian driving test

     

    One of the most important things to do when preparing for your driving test is to familiarize yourself with South Australia’s driving laws and regulations. You can research and understand the road rules by reviewing the South Australian Drivers Handbook. This handbook covers the basics of driving, including road signs, speed limits, and traffic rules. In addition to this, it is recommended that you familiarise yourself with the VORT recording sheet. This will give you a good understanding of what skills the assessor will expect you to demonstrate in the driving practical test.

     

    III. How many mistakes can you make on a South Australian driving test?

     

    During the VORT test, your driving skills will be evaluated based on a point system. To pass the test, you need to score at least 90% in all three sections of the VORT recording sheet.

     

    During the VORT test, it’s important to avoid making critical errors that will result in immediate driving lesson fails. These errors are outlined in the first section of the recording sheet. This can include exceeding the speed limit, failing to give way, disobeying traffic lights, failing to comply with directions, or the examiner needing to intervene. If you breach any road laws during the VORT, the examiner will immediately terminate the test and direct you back to the start point. For this reason, it is crucial to take the VORT test seriously and practice safe driving habits to avoid making these critical errors.

     

    The second section you need to pass is the demonstration of five slow-speed manoeuvres:

    • Parallel park
    • Angle Park
    • Moving Off
    • U-Turn
    • 3 Point Turn

     

    Each manoeuvre displayed successfully is awarded two marks, for a total of 10%.

     

    Sections three and four relate to the general drive component of the test. The examiner will direct you through a pre-determined route, with each section testing different driving skills and knowledge. As you progress through the route, the examiner will mark you on whether you pass these skills within Section Four. If any of the criteria from this section is not met, you can continue the test and the examiner will include comments within Section Three. It is important to note that while these errors are allowed, they can still result in point deductions, which can affect the overall score.

     

    Your final score is calculated by how many of the general driver components you passed in addition to your score for the slow-speed manoeuvres. If you score more than 90 points or more, you will have successfully passed the VORT.

     

    1. Common Errors in Driving Tests

     

    Being aware of common mistakes that can cause you to fail the VORT is key. Some common mistakes include not checking blind spots, failing to give way when required, and inappropriate signalling. One of the most common errors made in the South Australian VORT test is failing to adequately check mirrors when changing lanes or turning. By practicing regularly and focusing on the test criteria, you can avoid these mistakes and improve your chances of success.

     

    This error can often be attributed to a lack of proper instruction during driving lessons. There are many driving instructors in Adelaide and choosing the right driving instructor is crucial for success. Many students choose to take lessons with other driving schools, where instructors may not provide adequate training in essential driving skills, such as checking mirrors. Instructors who provide little to no training in driving instruction may also contribute to this problem. It’s important to remember that choosing cheap driving lessons doesn’t always equate to quality driving instruction. To avoid these common errors, it’s important to choose a reputable driving instructor who provides comprehensive training and emphasizes the importance of essential driving skills.

     

    1. Tips for passing the South Australian driving test

     

    Taking driving lessons with a qualified and experienced driving school or instructor is crucial in passing the South Australian driving test. At Prepare to Pass Driving School, we ensure that our instructors are highly trained and experienced in providing you with the necessary knowledge and skills to pass the driving test. We believe in providing a personalized approach to each student, ensuring that they receive the attention and guidance they need to become confident and safe drivers. Alongside this, our instructors will guide you with applying the South Australian driving laws, including understanding road signs, speed limits, and other rules of the road. Lastly, practicing and taking mock tests with your driving instructor is essential to build your confidence and skills before the actual test. With Prepare to Pass Driving School, you can be assured of the best quality training and guidance to pass the driving test in South Australia.

     

    1. Conclusion

     

    In conclusion, passing the South Australian driving test can be a challenging task, but with the right preparation, it can be a rewarding and successful experience. Remember to take lessons with a qualified and experienced driving school or instructor, know the South Australian driving laws, practice, and take mock tests with your instructor. Creating a before driving checklist can also help you feel more confident and prepared on the day of your test. We highly recommend choosing Prepare to Pass Driving School for the best quality training and guidance to pass your driving test. Don’t hesitate to book your pre-test lessons with us at https://preparetopass.com.au/ and start your journey toward becoming a confident and safe driver.

  • A Beginner’s Guide to Passing Your Driving Test

    Introduction

     

    Passing your driving test is an important milestone for teenagers as it represents a newfound independence and freedom that comes with being able to legally drive a vehicle on their own. In South Australia, passing the driving test is done through the Vehicle On Road Test (VORT), which is a practical test that evaluates your driving skills and ability to follow the road rules. As exciting as this process can be, the VORT test can instil some apprehension and nervousness as many tests do. In this article, we’ll cover some essential tips to help you prepare for your first driving test in South Australia and help you increase your chances of success.

     

    Know South Australia’s Driving Laws

     

    One of the most important things to do when preparing for your driving test is to familiarize yourself with South Australia’s driving laws and regulations. You can research and understand the road rules by reviewing the South Australian driver’s handbook. This handbook covers the basics of driving, including road signs, speed limits, and traffic rules. It’s essential to study the handbook and get a good understanding of the road rules before taking your VORT.

     

    It is also recommended that you take a lessons with a VORT driving instructor to properly familiarize yourself with the test requirements and learn the appropriate driving skills and manoeuvres. When you feel confident behind the wheel, you can book in for your practical driving test. During the VORT test, you will need to demonstrate your ability to drive safely and competently on the road. You will be tested on various skills, including parking, reversing, changing lanes, navigating intersections and interacting with busy traffic scenarios.

     

    There are many VORT instructors in Adelaide who can provide you with the necessary skills, knowledge, and experience to help you pass your driving test effortlessly and with a sense of assurance. The driving lessons are tailored to meet the specific needs of each learner, taking into account their prior driving experience, learning style, and personal goals.

    Stopping at Kerb

    Practice, Practice, Practice

     

    Getting plenty of practice behind the wheel with a licensed driver is essential to your success at the VORT. It’s important to practice in a variety of driving conditions and situations, such as on different types of roads and in different weather conditions. Consider also taking a pre-VORT lesson with your driving instructor to get feedback on your driving and any areas you need to improve before the test. Finding a driving instructor in Adelaide is easy, as there are many qualified professionals who can help you prepare for your VORT, such as us at Prepare to Pass Driving School.

     

     

     

     

     

    Understand the VORT Test Criteria

     

    It’s crucial to understand the VORT test criteria and what the examiner will be looking for during the test. The VORT test criteria in South Australia requires you to drive a complex route to assess your ability to drive safely in general traffic as well as complete five slow-speed manoeuvres.

     

    The test, which runs for 45-55 minutes, will see you drive a complex route with changing conditions to assess your vehicle control, observation, and hazard perception. You will need to demonstrate your ability to control the vehicle smoothly and safely, observe traffic and road conditions, and respond appropriately to potential hazards.

     

    The hazard perception criterion of the VORT test evaluates your ability to recognize and respond appropriately to potential hazards on the road. This includes hazards such as other vehicles, pedestrians, and unexpected situations like changes in traffic flow or road conditions. You will need to demonstrate your ability to identify potential hazards and respond appropriately by adjusting your speed, signalling, and taking evasive action when necessary.

     

    In addition to this, you will be required to complete the following five slow-speed manoeuvres:

    • U-turn (this can be one of the three government standard U-turns)
    • 3-point-turn
    • Angle park
    • Reverse parallel park
    • Move off the kerb.

     

    You’re driving instructor can help you understand the test criteria and provide you with tips to improve your driving skills. You can also access a copy of the VORT recording sheet that the examiner will use to assess you to have an accurate idea of what skills are required and areas where you can either lose points or result in an automatic fail.

     

     

    Avoid Common VORT Test Mistakes

     

    Being aware of common mistakes that can cause you to fail the VORT is crucial. Some common mistakes include not checking blind spots, failing to give way when required, and driving too fast or too slow. By practicing regularly and focusing on the test criteria, you can avoid these mistakes and improve your chances of success. With regular practice and feedback from your instructor, you can develop the necessary skills to pass the VORT test. It’s important to note that there are certain driving lesson fails that can lead to an automatic fail during the VORT test. These include dangerous driving, disobeying traffic signals, and causing a collision.

     

     

     

    General Tips for Beforehand

     

    In addition to practicing and understanding the test criteria, there are a few general tips you should follow before taking your VORT. Getting plenty of rest the night before your VORT is important to ensure you are alert and focused during the test. Eating a healthy breakfast can also give you the energy you need to perform well. It’s essential to stay calm and confident, even if you make a mistake during the test. Remember that the VORT is designed to evaluate your driving skills and help you become a safe and responsible driver.

     

     

    Conclusion

     

    Passing your driving practical test is an important milestone, and it’s essential to take the necessary steps to prepare for your VORT. By researching and understanding South Australia’s driving laws, getting plenty of practice behind the wheel, understanding the VORT test criteria and avoiding common mistakes, you can increase your chances of success. Remember to prioritize safe and responsible driving habits on the roads and don’t hesitate to seek the help of a qualified driving instructor if you need assistance.

  • Is It Normal to Fail Your First Driving Test?

    Introduction

    For many young people, learning how to drive and passing the driving test is a significant life event and a symbolic transition into adulthood. However, for many people NOT passing the driving test in South Australia is easier said than done. Despite hours of practice and preparation, some people fail their driving test on the first attempt. This can be a disheartening experience, leaving them wondering if they are alone in their struggle. This article will shed light on what to expect in your practical driving test, how many people fail their first driving test, and why as well as how to move forward if this happens to you. So, continue reading to discover if it is normal to fail your first driving test.

    What to Expect on a South Australian Driving Test

    After accruing 75 hours of driving experience with a qualified supervising driver, a practical method to obtain your P1 Provisional Licence:

    • Successfully pass a Vehicle on Road Test (VORT)

    This assessment is designed to assess if a person can safely operate a motor vehicle, safely drive in general traffic, and successfully complete five slow-speed manoeuvres.

    The VORT is a driving practical test with a qualified driving examiner to assess your skills and knowledge of driving safely and competently. This test runs for up to 45-55 minutes, unless you breach any Road Laws and will see you drive a complex route with changing conditions to assess your ability to apply road laws and safety whilst driving. This can include navigating:

    • various speed zones
    • obeying signs and road markings
    • turning right from on a side road onto a busy road
    • turning left
    • indicating and changing lanes or merging safely
    • navigating roundabouts
    • identifying and working through hazards
    • correctly observing traffic and driving conditions

    You will also need to demonstrate the following five slow-speed manoeuvres:

    • U-turn (this can be one of the three government standard U-turns)
    • 3-point-turn
    • Angle park
    • Reverse parallel park
    • Stop at a Kerb & then Move off kerb.

    You will be assessed on a VORT recording sheet which can be accessed on the SA MyLicence website. To pass the VORT, you must have a general driving score of 90% or above, demonstrate the five slow-speed manoeuvres and not breach any road rules. The test will be terminated, and you will be immediately failed if you breach any of the road rules. If you do not pass your practical driving test, the instructor will explain why and provide you with a copy of your VORT recording sheet.

    How Many People Pass Their First Driving Test in South Australia?

    So, how many people pass their driving test on the first attempt? According to Budget Direct, 18.4% of South Australians do not pass their first attempt at the VORT. Many will go on to pass on their second attempt but there is still a small portion of people who can take extra attempts to pass!

    Common Reasons Why People Fail Their Driving Test in South Australia

    As the statistics above show, many people can still fail their first attempt at a driving test despite having plenty of preparation and practice. There are many reasons why this can happen, some of which can be avoided with awareness and proper preparation.

    The most common reason for failing the South Australian Driving test is a lack of pre-test driving lessons. Taking just driving lessons are considerably different and can lack teaching many of the skills and expectations required to pass the practical driving test. In fact, every week we see numerous students from metro suburbs and rural areas taking driving lessons with us because of this. Lessons for the practical driving test is not just a casual drive, it should be designed to help you pass your test on the first attempt.

    When it comes to failing the actual test, road laws and driver awareness, like failure to stop at stop sign completely, failure to look over the shoulder, failure to indicate or signal and  speeding, were the most common mistakes resulting in a failed VORT. Interestingly, 23.1% of failures were also for “other reasons’, such as errors outlined in this article.

    There are several ways you can avoid making these mistakes in your first practical driving test. These include:

    • Take Specialised Pre-Test lessons with a driving instructor in Adelaide from a Driving Test Driving School that focuses on delivery information and skills to help you pass your test the first time, like us!
    • Undergo mock trial test training to overcome driving test failures
    • Take to learn to correct driving skills assessed and knowledge of road laws for the test. It can be helpful to take a before-driving checklist so you know exactly what you want to work on with the Specialised Learner instructor.
    • Learning and revising the road rules
    • Practice specific manoeuvres and skills.
    • Understand the different road situations you could encounter such as busy intersections, roundabouts and school zones in operation.

    Coping with Failing Your First Driving Test

    Failing your first driving test can be a difficult and discouraging experience. It is normal to feel disappointed, frustrated, and even embarrassed. However, it is important to remember that failing your first driving test is not uncommon. Many people fail their driving test on their first attempt, and it does not mean that you are a bad driver.

    Once you have finished, take some time to process your emotions and reflect on your experience. Talk to your driving instructor or a trusted family member or friend about your experience and ask for their feedback and advice. The specialised driving instructor that assesses & trains you will also provide you with details about why you failed your VORT, which can be used to identify areas where you can improve.

    If you fail a VORT, you need to wait at least 14 days before you can attempt another VORT. This gives you time to shake off your nerves and continue practicing both the skills you need to improve on as well as the ones that you passed.

    Remember that persistence and practice are the keys to success, and that it’s okay to take the test again when you feel ready. With patience, determination, and a positive attitude, you can overcome the disappointment of failing your first driving test and achieve your goal of passing the SA VORT test and obtaining a P1 Provisional Licence.

    Conclusion

    Failing your first driving test in South Australia is a common experience, and it should not discourage you from continuing to practice and improve your driving skills. With proper preparation and awareness of the common mistakes that lead to test failures, you can increase your chances of passing the driving test on your next attempt. Remember that driving is a skill that requires patience, practice, and a willingness to learn from your mistakes. Whether you pass or fail your driving test, the most important thing is to remain committed to safe and responsible driving habits. By doing so, you will not only improve your chances of passing the driving test but also become a safer and more confident driver on the road.

  • How Many Driving Lessons Are Recommended to Pass the VORT Test?

    Introduction

     

    Learning to drive is an exciting experience for any teenager, but it can also be a nerve-wracking process full of tests. One of the methods of obtaining your P1 Provisional Licence in South Australia is passing the Vehicle on Road Test, also known as the VORT. Administered by the Department of Transport in South Australia, the VORT is a practical driving test that assesses whether you have developed the skills and knowledge to safely drive on the roads. Undertaking driving lessons with a qualified driving school can help you to develop these skills and knowledge based on the standards and expectations of the VORT. But you may be wondering, how many lessons should you take to pass the VORT? Continue reading to explore what you should consider when determining the number of driving lessons you will undertake, as well as how to best utilise your scheduled driving lessons.

     

     

    Requirements to Pass VORT

     

    If you have chosen to pursue the VORT method to obtain P1 Provisional Licence, the requirements to obtain your licence are:

    • 75 hours of supervised driving with a qualified supervising driver, including 15 hours at night
    • Successfully undertake the VORT (practical driving test)
    • Pass a Hazard Perception Test at ServicesSA,
    • Have been on your Learners Permit for 12 months, for over 25 year old, 6 months.
    • You do not need to wait the period to sit for your Vort Test, you can sit for the Vort anytime, however you will still need to meet all of the above required qualifications points to attain your Provisional Licence or P Plates.

     

    The VORT will see you undertake a 45-minute drive with a qualified VORT motor driving examiner who will mark you against the standardised VORT recording sheet. This marks you on your abilities to drive in general traffic as well as complete these five key manoeuvres:

     

    1. 3-point turn: A 3-point turn is a manoeuvre used to turn a vehicle around in a narrow street or a dead-end road. It is performed by utilising both the drive and reverse gears to turn the car to face the opposite direction in three movements.
    2. Reverse parallel park: A reverse parallel park is a manoeuvre used to park a vehicle parallel to the curb on the left-hand side of the road. This can be utilised on both an empty road as well as to park between two cars.
    3. U-turn: A U-turn is a manoeuvre used to turn a vehicle around in a wide street or intersection.
    4. Angle parking: An angle park is a type of parking where the vehicle is parked at an angle to the curb.
    5. Moving off from parking on a hill: Moving off from parking on a hill requires the driver to use the handbrake or parking brake to prevent the car from rolling backward whilst taking off on a hill and or, Moving off from a curb.

    To pass the VORT, you must achieve a general drive score of 90% or more, complete these five manoeuvres, and not break any road laws whilst driving. With numerous skills to master as well as learning the ins and outs of general driving, it can be advantageous to book driving lessons with a qualified South Australia driving school so you can learn the correct road rules and all of the manoeuvres.

    How Many Driving Lessons Do I Need to Take to Pass My VORT?

    Unlike many other states and territories in Australia, the VORT method of obtaining your P1 Provisional Licence does not require you to undertake mandatory lessons with a driving instructor. However, all learner drivers are still recommended to attend at least 7 – 10 driving lessons before attempting the VORT. This will ensure you have developed the appropriate levels of skills, knowledge, and confidence to safely operate a vehicle on the roads with other drivers.

    Seven to ten driving lessons may not be suitable for all drivers, with some learners requiring more lessons. Many factors can affect how much time you need to spend learning with a driving instructor, such as:

    • Previous experience: if you have held a licence before, your previous experience means you will likely already have many of the skills and knowledge of operating a vehicle that a complete beginner does not
    • Age: younger drivers have less experience driving and may need more time and assistance to develop these skills
    • Confidence Levels: much like other skills, some people will pick up driving easier than others. For those with lower confidence levels behind the wheel, more time with a driving instructor can help you feel more confident.
    • Type of Vehicle: learning how to drive an automatic car can be a lot easier than learning to drive a manual car, where you have to master the clutch and gears

     

    How to Best Utilise Your Driving Lessons

     

    No matter how many driving lessons you decide to take, you must utilise your time with a qualified driving instructor to ensure you have developed the correct skills and knowledge that meet the Department of Transport’s standards.