The Ultimate PEI Road Test Checklist: Be Prepared, Not Surprised

The day of your Prince Edward Island road test is the moment all your practice and study finally come together. It's the final step to moving from a supervised learner to a more independent driver. While it's perfectly normal to feel some nerves, the best way to build confidence is with meticulous preparation. Being fully prepared means you won't be surprised by anything on test day.

This ultimate checklist is designed to guide you through everything you need to have in order, from the condition of your vehicle to the documents in your hand, so you can focus on what's most important: driving safely and passing your test.

Part 1: The Vehicle Readiness Checklist

You are responsible for providing a safe and roadworthy vehicle for your test. Before the test even begins, the driving examiner will conduct a basic vehicle inspection. If your vehicle fails this inspection, your road test will be cancelled immediately, and you will lose your test fee. Use this checklist to make sure your car is ready.

• [ ] Brakes: Both your regular foot brake and your parking brake must be in proper working order.
• [ ] Lights: Check every single light on the vehicle.
  • [ ] Headlights (both low and high beams)
  • [ ] Brake Lights (all of them, including the third, high-mount light if equipped)
  • [ ] Turn Signals (front and rear, left and right)
  • [ ] Hazard Lights (four-way flashers)
• [ ] Horn: Must be loud enough to be heard by other drivers.
• [ ] Tires: Must have adequate tread depth and be properly inflated. Check for any visible damage.
• [ ] Windshield: Must be clean and free of large cracks, chips, or stickers that could obstruct the driver's view.
• [ ] Wipers & Washer Fluid: Your windshield wipers must function correctly, and the washer fluid reservoir should be full.
• [ ] Mirrors: The rearview mirror and both side mirrors must be securely in place and not cracked.
• [ ] Doors: The examiner's passenger door must be able to open and close properly from both the inside and the outside.
• [ ] Seatbelts: The seatbelt for the examiner's seat must be fully functional.
• [ ] Speedometer: Must be working correctly and be clearly visible from the driver's seat.
• [ ] Cleanliness: The vehicle should be reasonably clean and free of clutter, particularly on the passenger side and dashboard.
• [ ] No Dashboard Warning Lights: Ensure there are no illuminated warning lights (like Check Engine, ABS, or Airbag) on your dashboard.

Part 2: The Essential Documents Checklist

Arriving at your appointment without the correct paperwork is one of the easiest ways to be sent home. Gather these documents ahead of time and keep them organized. All documents must be original and valid—photocopies are not accepted.

• [ ] Your PEI Instruction Driver's Permit (Class 7): You must have your physical permit card with you.
• [ ] Road Test Payment Receipt: Proof that you have paid for your road test appointment.
• [ ] Valid Vehicle Registration Permit: The original ownership document for the vehicle you are using for the test. Make sure it is not expired.
• [ ] Valid Insurance Liability Card (Pink Card): The original, unexpired insurance card for the test vehicle.

Part 3: The Driver Preparation Checklist (You!)

The car and the paperwork are in order. Now it's time to prepare yourself.

• [ ] Practice Key Maneuvers: This is the most critical part of your preparation. Get plenty of practice with your supervising driver, focusing on the skills you will be tested on:
  • Parallel parking
  • Three-point turns
  • Backing up in a straight line
  • Uphill and downhill parking (with and without a curb)
  • Safe lane changes (Signal, Mirror, Blind Spot!)
  • Navigating intersections (controlled and uncontrolled)
• [ ] Know the Area: If possible, drive in the area around the Access PEI centre where your test is scheduled. Becoming familiar with the local roads, speed limits, and traffic patterns can significantly reduce anxiety.
• [ ] Get a Good Night's Sleep: A well-rested driver is an alert driver. Your focus and reaction time will be much better.
• [ ] Arrive Early: Plan to arrive at the test centre at least 15-20 minutes before your scheduled appointment. This gives you time to park, check in, and calm your nerves without feeling rushed.
• [ ] Wear Your Glasses/Contacts: If your permit has a condition requiring you to wear corrective lenses, do not forget them.

Part 4: What to Expect During the Road Test

• The Examiner's Role: The examiner is a professional whose job is to objectively assess your ability to drive safely. They will give you clear, simple instructions. They are not trying to trick you. Listen carefully to their directions.
• The Drive: The test will last approximately 20-30 minutes and will take you through a variety of real-world driving situations. The examiner will be grading you on your overall competence, observation skills (checking mirrors and blind spots), vehicle control, and adherence to the rules of the road.
• After the Test: Once you return to the centre, the examiner will inform you if you have passed or failed. If you passed, congratulations! They will guide you on the next steps to enter Stage 2 of the GDL program. If you were unsuccessful, listen carefully to their feedback. They will provide a report detailing where you lost points. This is not a criticism, but valuable information to help you practice and improve for your next attempt.

By using this checklist to prepare meticulously, you can walk into your PEI road test feeling capable, confident, and ready to succeed. Good luck!