Surrey Driving School Blog by Greenlight: driving tips

🛑 Top Mistakes to Avoid on Your ICBC Road Test in Surrey

Taking your ICBC road test in Surrey? Avoiding a few common mistakes can make the difference between passing and failing. At Greenlight Driving School, we’ve helped hundreds of learners pass their test on the first try. Here are the top mistakes you should watch out for:

1. Not Coming to a Complete Stop
Many drivers slow down at stop signs but don’t stop completely. Always come to a full stop behind the line, check all directions, then proceed safely.

2. Forgetting Shoulder Checks During Lane Changes
Signal, mirror, shoulder check — always in that order. Skipping the shoulder check is one of the top reasons people fail.

3. Driving Too Fast or Too Slow
Stay within the speed limit, but also avoid driving way below it unless necessary. Too slow can show a lack of confidence.

4. Poor Observation at Intersections
Even if you have the right of way, scan both sides before proceeding. Good observation shows that you’re aware and alert.

5. Parking Mistakes
Whether it’s parallel parking or hill parking, accuracy matters. Practice until you can do it smoothly.

6. Ignoring School Zones or Playground Signs
Watch for speed limit signs in school and playground areas. Missing them is considered a critical error.

7. Showing Nervousness or Rushing
Stay calm and take your time. Rushing or panicking may lead to small mistakes adding up.

Greenlight Driving School Tip:
Book a mock road test with us. We’ll show you actual Surrey road test routes, correct your weak spots, and help boost your confidence.

Want to book a session?
Visit our contact page or tap the WhatsApp button on this blog to chat instantly.

❄️ Winter Driving in BC: 7 Tips for New Drivers

Driving in winter can be tricky, especially in British Columbia where conditions change quickly. Here are some essential tips for new drivers to stay safe and confident during snowy and icy months.

🚗 1. Slow Down in Snow

Even if you're driving the speed limit, it may be too fast. Reduce speed on icy or wet roads.

🧊 2. Avoid Sudden Braking

Brake gently to avoid skidding. Increase your following distance — at least 4–6 seconds behind the car in front.

🌨️ 3. Keep Windows Clear

Before you start driving, clear off all snow and ice from windows, mirrors, and lights. Visibility is everything.

🛞 4. Use Winter Tires

Winter tires are highly recommended between October and April in BC. They give you better grip on snowy roads.

🅿️ 5. Avoid Hill Parking on Slopes

If possible, avoid parking on icy slopes. Always turn your wheels the correct way and use your parking brake.

📱 6. Plan Your Route & Check Weather

Use apps like Google Maps or DriveBC to avoid dangerous roads. Never rush during bad weather.

🧰 7. Keep a Winter Safety Kit

Pack essentials like a flashlight, blanket, phone charger, snacks, and windshield washer fluid.

Want to learn safe winter driving in real conditions?
Book a seasonal lesson with Greenlight Driving School.

📱 Chat on WhatsApp to Book

✅ ICBC Test Checklist: Everything You Need to Know

Getting ready for your ICBC road test? Here's a quick checklist to make sure you’re fully prepared and confident on the test day!

✅ Documents to Carry:

Valid Learner’s License (Class 7 or 5)
2 pieces of ID (e.g., passport, PR card, BCID)
Booking confirmation (optional, but useful)

🚗 Vehicle Requirements:

Valid insurance and registration
Working lights, wipers, and horn
Clean windshield and mirrors
No warning lights on dashboard

📋 Mental Checklist:

Practice shoulder checks & lane changes
Know 4-way stop rules and school zone speeds
Be ready for hill parking and parallel parking

✨ Tip: Arrive 15 minutes early to avoid any last-minute panic. Deep breaths. You’ve got this!

Need a mock test before the real thing?
👉 Book with Greenlight Driving School today.

📱 Chat on WhatsApp to Book

🆕 New to Driving in BC? Here’s What Every Beginner Should Know

If you're new to British Columbia or just getting started with driving, the process can feel overwhelming. Don’t worry — you’re not alone. At Greenlight Driving School in Surrey, we work with hundreds of first-time drivers, including immigrants, students, and teens every year.

Here’s a quick guide to help you understand the basics before you hit the road.

🚦 Step 1: Understand the Licensing Stages in BC

British Columbia follows a Graduated Licensing Program (GLP):

Learner’s (L) – Class 7L
- Must be at least 16
- Pass a knowledge test + vision test at ICBC
- Drive with a supervising adult
Novice (N) – Class 7
- Hold your L for at least 12 months
- Pass the ICBC road test
Full License – Class 5
- After 24 months with an N license
- Pass another road test for your Class 5

🟩 We can help at every stage — from L to N to Class 5.

📘 Step 2: Know the Documents You Need

To take your knowledge test or road test, bring:

Government-issued ID
Proof of address (if needed)
Glasses/contact lenses if you need them
Parental consent if under 19

👨‍🏫 Step 3: Take Professional Driving Lessons

Driving with a friend or parent is great — but professional instruction gives you an edge.

With Greenlight Driving School:

Learn ICBC test routes
Practice key maneuvers: parking, lane changes, merging
Get personalized feedback from certified instructors
Lessons available in Punjabi, Hindi, and English

🛡️ Step 4: Know the Most Common Mistakes Beginners Make

We see many beginners lose marks for:

Forgetting shoulder checks
Not stopping fully at stop signs
Speeding in school zones
Hesitating too long at intersections

💡 We teach you how to avoid all of these — and more.

💬 Final Tip: Start Early, Stay Consistent

The earlier you start practicing with a plan, the more confident you’ll be when test day comes. Whether you’re 16 or 46 — it’s never too late to learn.

📞 Ready to Start Driving?

Let Greenlight Driving School in Surrey help you get started the right way.

👉 Book your first lesson
📱 WhatsApp: +1 778-522-1513
📧 greenlightds13@gmail.com

Next week’s blog: “Learn to Drive in Punjabi, Hindi, or English – Your Language, Your Confidence.”
Stay tuned!

Surrey Driving School Blog by Greenlight