🚗 Top 5 Learner Driver Misconceptions in WA About Driving Lessons & the PDA

When I talk to learner drivers across Perth, I hear a lot of the same beliefs come up again and again. Some are half-truths, others are flat-out myths — and unfortunately, a few of them end up costing learners time, money, and confidence on their journey to getting a WA driver’s licence.

So let’s bust the top 5 learner driver misconceptions in WA about lessons and the Practical Driving Assessment (PDA).

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❌ Misconception 1: “I only need to work on my reverse parking.”

This is probably the number one thing I hear. Learners worry so much about parking that they forget the PDA is about safe, consistent driving overall.

First of all — parking is actually one of the least important parts of your test. Examiners don’t expect perfection. If you can get the car into the bay or complete a reverse parallel park with a fix-up, you’re good to go.

Second, most learners have other areas that need improvement too: lane changes, roundabouts, gap selection, merging, hazard perception… Parking is just one piece of the puzzle.

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❌ Misconception 2: “I just need to brush up on the rules.”

Some learners think they can skim the road rules, memorise a few notes, and be set for the test.

The truth? Every single manoeuvre in the car — moving off, stopping, merging, roundabouts, turning right at traffic lights, overtaking — has multiple boxes that need to be ticked. It’s not just about knowing the rule, it’s about showing it consistently while you’re driving.

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❌ Misconception 3: “If I drive like my parents, I’ll pass.”

A lot of learners copy how Mum or Dad drives. The problem? Most parents passed their tests years ago — when the standards were very different. Over time, people pick up bad habits without realising.

Just because your parents say you’re a “good driver” doesn’t mean you’re showing the specific safe driving behaviours examiners are looking for.

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❌ Misconception 4: “If I can control the car, I can drive.”

Being able to steer, brake, and accelerate smoothly is just the beginning.

I often meet learners who are confident with car control but still struggle with:

• Reading the road ahead

• Spotting hazards early

• Knowing exactly when to give way

• Managing speed in different conditions

Safe driving is about awareness and decision-making, not just handling the vehicle.

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❌ Misconception 5: “This licensing centre has a lower pass rate — I should book somewhere else.”

This one comes up all the time. Learners hear rumours about one centre being “harder” or another being “easier.”

Here’s the truth: the standards are exactly the same everywhere in WA. It doesn’t matter which centre you go to — the requirement to pass is always that you demonstrate safe, competent driving.

What’s happened before you has no impact on how you’ll be assessed. Pass rates don’t change the fact that examiners are checking for the same skills, in the same way.

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Final Thoughts

At the end of the day, these learner driver misconceptions in WA distract from what really matters: being prepared and confident behind the wheel.

That’s why I created the GOAT DIY Driving Lesson Plans — the same structure I use with my on-road students, but in an affordable, step-by-step format.

They’re available in English, Spanish, and Portuguese, include a free Lesson Example, and even come with my direct support if you need help finding practice locations.

You can also check out the Wall of Success to see how other WA learners used the plans to get test-ready.

👉 If you want to save time, money, and stress, start your free 1-week trial today.

Now it’s your turn 👇Which of these myths did you believe when you started learning to drive?

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