🎛️ Vehicle controls check
Before the driving starts, the examiner may ask you to operate the controls: horn, parking lights, high and low beams, turn signals, windshield wipers, the parking brake, four-way flashers, and the defroster. Fumbling for a control you've never touched is a bad first impression — and an unsafe vehicle ends the test before it begins.
What the examiner is watching for
- ✓Immediate, confident operation of each control without hunting
- ✓A vehicle that passes its once-over: lights, horn, brakes, wipers, signals, mirrors, doors, seats, and tires all working
- ✓Valid registration, insurance, and inspection and emissions stickers
- ✓Proper seating position with mirrors set before moving
Step by step
- 1In the week before the test, operate every control on the vehicle you'll bring — with your eyes closed.
- 2Check the paperwork: registration, insurance card, and valid inspection and emissions stickers.
- 3Walk around the vehicle: all lights working, tires sound, doors opening properly.
- 4At the test, demonstrate each control as asked, then set your seat and mirrors before rolling.
Mistakes that cost points
- ✗Bringing a borrowed car you've never practiced the controls in
- ✗A burned-out bulb or bald tire — an unsafe vehicle means no test
- ✗Expired inspection or emissions stickers on the test vehicle
- ✗Adjusting seat and mirrors after you start moving instead of before
The other 5 skills PA grades
FullPass is an independent study aid. Road-test guidance is written from official PennDOT test requirements; your examiner and the Department of Transportation remain the final authority.