Top 5 Mistakes Students Make in Utah Drivers Ed—and How to Avoid Them

Published: 2025-07-05 | Last Modified: 2025-07-05

Earning your driver’s license is one of the most exciting milestones in life. For most students in Utah, it also means enrolling in drivers ed classes to prepare for the big day. While these classes set you up for success on the road, there are a few common mistakes students make during the process. But don’t worry—we’re here to help you avoid them.

At A-1 Driving School in Salt Lake City, UT, we’ve worked with countless students, and we know the pitfalls to watch out for. Below, we’ll break down the top five mistakes students make in Utah drivers ed, as well as some simple tips to steer clear of them.

1. Failing to Take Drivers Ed Seriously

One of the most common mistakes students make is treating drivers ed like a chore rather than a valuable learning experience. Your drivers ed classes in Utah are designed to teach you essential skills that will keep you and others on the road safe. Skimming through the materials or half-heartedly participating can leave you underprepared for both the written exam and your behind-the-wheel test.

How to Avoid It

• Treat your classes like you would any other school subject.
• Take notes during lessons and review them regularly.
• Ask questions if you’re uncertain about any traffic laws or driving techniques.

Remember, the goal of drivers ed is not just to get your license but to become a confident and responsible driver.

2. Not Practicing Enough 

You’ve probably heard the saying, “Practice makes perfect.” This couldn’t be truer when it comes to driving. Many students assume that completing their required classroom hours is enough, but without hands-on practice, you may struggle when it’s time to hit the road.

How to Avoid It

• Take full advantage of your behind-the-wheel training sessions.
• Practice regularly with a licensed adult outside of your drivers ed lessons. Whether it’s heading to the grocery store or navigating a parking lot, the more experience you get, the better.
• Focus on different scenarios, such as night driving, highway driving, and parallel parking.

The more time you spend behind the wheel, the more prepared you’ll be for real-world driving challenges.

3. Ignoring Study Time for the Written Exam

The Utah DMV written test covers a range of topics, from road signs and traffic signals to state-specific traffic laws. Many students make the mistake of brushing off study time, believing they already know enough to pass. This can lead to unnecessary stress on test day or even failing the exam.

How to Avoid It

• Use the Utah Driver Handbook as your primary study resource. It contains everything you need to know for both the written test and beyond. 
• Take practice tests online to gauge your knowledge and familiarize yourself with the test format. 
• Dedicate small chunks of time daily to review key concepts. Cramming the night before can leave gaps in your understanding.

By staying consistent with your study habits, you’ll approach your test with confidence.

4. Overlooking Defensive Driving Techniques 

One big misconception among students is that driving is as simple as steering, braking, and accelerating. While these skills are essential, understanding defensive driving techniques is just as important. Ignoring these methods can increase your risk of accidents.

How to Avoid It

• Pay attention to lessons on defensive driving during your drivers ed classes in Utah. This includes maintaining a safe following distance, scanning your surroundings, and anticipating other drivers’ behavior. 
• Practice defensive driving whenever you’re behind the wheel. 
• Remember that distractions like texting—even at a stoplight—put everyone’s safety at risk. 

Defensive driving is a skill that will protect you long after you’ve earned your license.

5. Waiting Too Long to Schedule Your Test 

Procrastination is another common mistake. Utah students often wait too long to schedule their road test, either because they’re nervous or unsure about their readiness. However, waiting can create scheduling conflicts or delays in getting your license.

How to Avoid It

• Book your road test as soon as possible to secure a convenient date and time. 
• Make sure your learner’s permit, required documents, and driving hours are up to date and ready to go before test day. 
• Use the time leading up to your test for extra practice and ask your driving instructor for feedback on your readiness. 

Getting your license sooner means the freedom to start driving on your own terms.

Accelerate Your Success with A-1 Driving School

Learning to drive can feel overwhelming, but knowing what mistakes to avoid can set you on the fast track to success. By treating drivers ed seriously, practicing regularly, studying well, focusing on defensive driving, and scheduling your test on time, you’ll not only earn your license but also develop safe habits for life.

At A-1 Driving School in Salt Lake City, UT, our experienced instructors are here to help you every step of the way. Whether you’re new to driving or need extra practice, our comprehensive drivers ed classes in Utah are tailored to prepare you for both the test and the road ahead.

Start your driving journey today with A-1. Call us or contact us today to enroll in drivers ed classes now!