Part 2 of Fresh Green Light’s series on the Top 10 Reasons Student Fail their DMV Road Tests.

Improper stops at stop signs remain one of the leading causes of road test failures for new drivers in Greenwich.  And it’s no wonder considering how some of our parents drive at times – rolling through stop signs if no one is around.  Yes, I’ve done it too sad to say.  But on your Road Test, that’s an immediate fail so let’s practice how to do it right.

Here’s how to handle stop signs correctly and pass your Connecticut DMV Road Test:

1. Reduce Your Speed
   • Begin slowing down well in advance of the stop sign. Connecticut examiners look for gradual, controlled deceleration.
2. Come to a Complete Stop
   • Stop completely before the stop line, crosswalk, or at the stop sign if neither exists. Feel the vehicle settle back over the chassis and hold for 2-3 seconds to clearly demonstrate compliance.
3. Slowly Roll Forward When Necessary
   • If your view is obstructed, slowly roll forward until you can see clearly. Stop again if needed. Greenwich’s varied intersections often require this approach.
4. Follow Right-of-Way Rules
   • At 4-way stops, the first vehicle to arrive proceeds first. If vehicles arrive simultaneously, yield to the vehicle on your right.
5. Signal Your Intentions
   • Use turn signals before reaching the intersection when turning. Connecticut examiners specifically watch for proper signaling.
6. Proceed with Caution
   • Move forward with smooth acceleration once it’s safe. Maintain complete control throughout the maneuver.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

1. Rolling stops: Even slowing to 1 mph isn’t enough—you must come to a complete stop with zero movement.
2. Stopping in the wrong position: Stopping after the white line or crosswalk is an immediate fail in most jurisdictions.
3. Stopping twice: Unless visibility requires you to creep forward, stopping multiple times shows indecision.
4. Forgetting to check for pedestrians: Always scan for pedestrians at intersections, even when it appears empty.
5. Proceeding too quickly: After stopping, take a moment to check in all directions before proceeding.

Use your FGL DriveTracker App to Practice!

• Open the FGL DriveTracker App
• Click on Road Test Bootcamp Module 2 – Stop Signs
• Practice on Greenwich’s residential streets near Greenwich High School or downtown where stop signs are plentiful.
• Have your parent do the assessment with you and score your results!

And here’s the real secret – do this EVERY single time you drive, at EVERY STOP SIGN until it becomes muscle memory.

A proper stop at every stop sign is crucial for passing your CT DMV road test.