Ready for the road - Log Book

New Driver's and Motorcyclist's Log Book

Skills You'll Need for Your Road Test

Use this list as a guide to developing driving skills for your road test. Each time you drive, make a note of the skills you have used and the distances you have driven. Remember this is only a checklist—it's not a replacement for driver training or the Handbook.

Driving Skills

Intersections and turns

Practise signalling, entering and leaving turns in the correct lane and at the proper speed. At intersections, pedestrians and traffic move in many directions. Get to know the different types of intersections and the meanings of all signs and signals.

Right of way

Practise the right-of-way rules, especially at intersections and while changing lanes.

Lane changes

Practise signalling, checking mirrors, checking blind spots by looking over your shoulder, and choosing the right speed for lane changes. It is important for motorists and motorcyclists to know and avoid each other's blind spots.

U-turns and three-point turns

Learn where they are appropriate, and practise these turns keeping constant watch for other vehicles, pedestrians and cyclists.

Spacing and speed control

Always be aware of the posted speed limit. Practise setting your speed for road and weather conditions and keeping a safe distance—at least two seconds—from the vehicle ahead.

Parking and backing up

Learn to park in parking lots, on a grade, and parallel parking. Practise smooth steering in reverse, leaving the right amount of space around you and watching for pedestrians and other vehicles.

One-way streets

Practise turning onto and from one-way streets.

Braking

Practise controlled braking. Develop the habit of looking ahead and braking well in advance with firm, even pressure.

Overtaking and passing

Practise overtaking other vehicles. Check for oncoming traffic and when it's safe to do so, accelerate evenly and leave enough space between vehicles before moving back into the correct lane.

• Guide To Newcomers And Ontario Expired Driver’s Licence Holders

For more information call: 1-800-387-3445

If you have any questions concerning new drivers and insurance, call the Insurance Bureau of Canada at 362-9528; from area code 807 call collect (416) 362-2031; elsewhere in Ontario call 1-800-387-2880.

Ready for the road is sponsored by Ontario's car insurance companies.