1: The Walk-Around Inspection (Before You Even Get In)

What the examiner is marking: Did you check around the vehicle for obstacles, other vehicles, or hazards?
The mistake: Most candidates rush straight to the driver’s door.
The win: Take 10 seconds to visually scan around the car – examiners love seeing this safety awareness.

2: Seat Position & Comfort.

What the examiner is marking: Can you comfortably reach all controls with proper driving posture?
The mistake: Sitting too close/far from pedals, or adjusting while engine is running
The win: Adjust seat FIRST – you should have a slight bend in your knee when clutch is fully depressed.

3: Mirror Adjustments (The Triangle of Vision)

What the examiner is marking: Can you see properly in all three mirrors without having to lean or stretch?
The mistake: Only adjusting the rearview mirror, or adjusting mirrors while moving.
The win: Adjust all three mirrors methodically – rearview first, then left wing mirror, then right wing mirror.

4: Seatbelt Protocol

What the examiner is marking: Did you put on your seatbelt before starting the engine AND check that your examiner’s seatbelt is on?
The mistake: Starting the engine first, or forgetting to check examiner’s seatbelt.
The win: “Is your seatbelt comfortable?” – asking the examiner shows you care about passenger safety.

5: Handbrake Check

What the examiner is marking: Did you confirm the handbrake is properly engaged before starting?
The mistake: Assuming it’s on, or checking it after starting the engine.
The win: Physically check the handbrake lever and say “handbrake is on” – examiners want to see you’re methodical.

6: Gear Position Confirmation

What the examiner is marking: Is the car in neutral (manual) or park (automatic) before starting?
The mistake: Not physically checking gear position.
The win: Touch the gear lever and confirm position – this prevents dangerous rolling when starting.

7: Dashboard Warning Lights Scan

What the examiner is marking: Do you notice if any warning lights stay on after starting the engine?
The mistake: Ignoring the dashboard completely after starting.
The win: Take 3 seconds to scan the dashboard and mention if you see any warning lights (major bonus points)

8: Controls Familiarity Test

What the examiner is marking: Do you know where your indicators, windscreen wipers, lights, and hooter are?
The mistake: Fumbling for controls during the test
The win: Quickly test your indicators left and right, locate windscreen wipers, and identify light switches – do this BEFORE you start driving.

The Secret Examiner Insight:

Examiners tell us that candidates who nail the cockpit drill score an average of 8-12 points higher on their overall test. Why? Because it shows you’re a systematic, safety-conscious driver from the very beginning.