Mastering the Romanian Driving Practical Exam

After passing the theory exam, the next big step to earning your Romanian driver’s license is the practical driving test. This exam evaluates your ability to operate a vehicle safely and follow traffic laws under real-world conditions. Preparing thoroughly for the practical exam will help you build confidence and increase your chances of success.

What to Expect on Exam Day
On the day of your practical exam, you will be accompanied by an official examiner and usually your driving instructor. The test typically lasts about 30-40 minutes and includes a variety of driving situations such as city streets, roundabouts, intersections, and parking maneuvers.

Before you begin driving, the examiner may ask you to perform basic vehicle checks, such as adjusting mirrors and seats, and explaining how to use safety features like the handbrake.

Key Skills Tested
Vehicle Control: Smooth use of the clutch, accelerator, and brakes, especially in manual transmission cars.

Observation: Checking mirrors and blind spots regularly, looking out for pedestrians and other vehicles.

Signaling: Proper use of indicators when turning, changing lanes, or merging.

Adherence to Traffic Laws: Obeying speed limits, traffic lights, stop signs, and giving right of way appropriately.

Maneuvering: Parking (parallel and cumpara permis de conducere reverse), hill starts, and three-point turns.

Hazard Awareness: Anticipating potential dangers and reacting safely.

Common Mistakes to Avoid
Failing to check mirrors before changing lanes or turning.

Rolling stops at stop signs instead of a full stop.

Improper or missing signals.

Stalling the vehicle frequently.

Taking too wide or tight turns.

Hesitation or panic in complex traffic situations.

Preparation Tips
Practice in Various Conditions: Drive during different times of day and weather to build experience.

Mock Exams: Many driving schools offer practice tests with instructors acting as examiners. These simulate the real test environment and help reduce anxiety.

Stay Calm: Nervousness is normal, but try to stay focused and breathe deeply. Remember, the examiner wants to see safe driving, not perfection.

Know the Route: Familiarize yourself with the testing routes commonly used in your area.

Listen to Your Instructor: Their feedback is invaluable in refining your skills before the exam.

What Happens After the Test?
If you pass, congratulations! You’ll be given information on how to collect your license. If you don’t, you can usually retake the practical exam after a waiting period (typically 15 days). Use the feedback to focus your practice and improve.