Mnemonic Devices For Passing Your Driver's License Renewal Test

People have used mnemonic devices to help them with testing for decades. These silly, if not outright absurd little jokes, poems, and nonsensical sentences help people remember things. You can use these tricks to help you with your DMV practice test and to pass your driver test on the first try. These tips will also help you drive safely after you pass your test.

Starting Up: Use SAM One of the most important things you can do is start off the exam on the right foot. Use SAM to remember what to do when you get in the car: seatbelt, adjustments, mirrors. The first thing you do is fasten your seatbelt, and ask the instructor to do the same. Make any adjustments to the seat, side or rear-view mirrors, and steering wheel, if necessary. You should be able to adjust your side mirrors to eliminate any blind spots and even just touching the mirror lets your instructor know you're paying attention.

The Two-Second Rule You should use this rule to ensure that you're always two seconds behind every car you follow. This means once the car ahead of you passes a landmark, such as a light pole or a building, you should pass it at least two seconds later. You can remember this by reciting to yourself "only a fool ignores the two-second rule." It sounds (and is) simple, but you would be surprised how easily it sticks into your head. You'll be following the two-second rule long after you've earned your license.

Changing Lanes With SMOG Use this helpful mnemonic to remember how to safely change lanes on a roadway: SMOG, which stands for signal, mirror, over-the-shoulder, go. First, use your turn signal. Then, check your mirrors for any oncoming cars in your intended lane. Lastly, take a quick glance over your shoulder (ensuring you have enough space between your car and the one in front of you), and if it's all clear, you can go. While there is some truth to the idea that the best way to learn how to drive is to practice, you have to start somewhere, and mnemonic devices help you remember important things for both the written and driving exams.

You can also take online DMV practice tests.

What mnemonic devices can you think of? Let us know in the comments below.