Going for your driving test is stressful enough — add an examiner’s behaviour that feels off or too intense, and it can throw anyone. Recently there have been reports of learners feeling uncomfortable because of a tester’s demeanour. If you find yourself in that position, it helps to know your rights, your immediate options during the test, and how to follow up afterwards.
Understand what you can do during the test
First, remember the test is there to assess your driving, not to make you feel anxious. If a tester’s tone, questions, or conduct makes you uncomfortable, you have a few practical options on the day:
- Take a breath and focus on the road: Your primary responsibility is safe driving. If possible, take a moment to gather yourself and continue with the manoeuvre or drive. Deep, steady breaths will help settle nerves.
- Ask for clarification: If instructions are unclear or delivered abruptly, calmly ask the examiner to repeat or clarify what they want you to do. Clear communication can defuse tension.
- Pause the test: If you feel genuinely unable to continue because of the tester’s behaviour, you can ask to pause or stop the test. Explain briefly that you are feeling uncomfortable and would like to reschedule if necessary.
- Bring your instructor’s support beforehand: While the instructor cannot sit in during the test, talking through scenarios and practising calming techniques with them beforehand can boost your confidence.
How to make a complaint to the RSA — calmly and effectively
If the tester’s conduct crossed a line or affected the fairness of the assessment, you can raise the matter with the Road Safety Authority (RSA). A clear, factual complaint will get the best response:
- Record the key facts: Note the date and time of the test, the test centre, the examiner’s name or badge number (if shown), and any specific incidents or phrasing that caused concern.
- Gather witnesses or supporting evidence: If you had a supervising instructor who can corroborate your state or any part of the story, ask them to help. Keep any correspondence, booking details, or receipts.
- Contact the RSA complaints process: Use the RSA’s official complaints channels (their website has guidance). Keep your language factual and avoid emotive exaggeration — a clear timeline helps investigations.
- Follow up in writing: After an initial phone call, lodge a written record of your complaint by email or through the RSA’s online form so there is a paper trail.
What the RSA is likely to do
The RSA takes complaints about driving testers seriously. They can investigate conduct, review test records, and determine whether the tester acted outside of professional standards. Outcomes may range from clarification and training to more formal action if procedures were breached. Keep in mind investigations take time, but making a clear complaint ensures your concerns are on record.
Practical tips to protect yourself and stay confident
Preparation reduces the chance that nerves will be made worse by any external behaviour. Below are practical tips aimed specifically at learner drivers in Ireland:
- Know your test centre in advance — some centres are busier or noisier; familiarity helps settle nerves.
- Get a good night’s sleep and check the weather forecast — wet or windy conditions on rural roads can raise stress levels, so be mentally prepared.
- Practice communicating clearly with your instructor about how you cope with pressure; rehearsal helps you respond calmly if the examiner’s style is brisk.
- Bring water and arrive early; rushing can heighten anxiety even before you meet the examiner.
- If you’re uncomfortable during the test, state it calmly: a simple “I’m feeling uncomfortable and would like to pause” is appropriate.
- If you decide to make a complaint, do it promptly while memories are fresh; include objective details rather than general impressions.
Final thoughts — you’re not alone
Having your confidence shaken by a tester’s energy or approach is an unpleasant experience, but there are clear steps you can take on the day and afterwards. The RSA is responsible for examiner standards, and they have procedures to handle complaints. Meanwhile, focus on what you can control: preparation, calm communication, and knowing how to pause or complain if necessary.
If you’d like, our instructors at Epic Driving School can role-play testing situations with you, including handling sudden pressure or awkward questioning. A bit of practice can make a big difference when you’re out on Irish roads — whether it’s a wet morning in Cork, a windy stretch in Galway, or negotiating a busy roundabout in Dublin.
Drive safely and remember: your comfort and safety matter as much as your driving ability.