Malta enjoys a Mediterranean climate with plenty of sunshine, but that does not mean bad weather is off the table. Between October and March, heavy rain, strong winds and even occasional fog can affect driving conditions across the islands. If your practical driving test happens to fall on a day with poor weather, there is no need to worry. With the right preparation, you can handle it with confidence and show the examiner that you are a capable, safety-conscious driver.
Why weather matters on your driving test
The examiner assesses more than your technical ability to control the car. They want to see that you can adapt to the conditions around you. In bad weather, they will pay special attention to how you adjust your speed, whether you maintain safe following distances and how well you use the vehicle's controls. A candidate who demonstrates calm, measured responses in difficult conditions makes a strong impression.
Driving in rain
Rain is the most common bad weather condition you are likely to encounter during your Malta driving test. Here are the key points to remember:
- Increase your following distance — on wet roads, stopping distances can double. Keep at least a four-second gap between you and the vehicle ahead.
- Reduce your speed — even if you are below the speed limit, adjust your speed to the conditions. A lower speed gives you more time to react to hazards.
- Switch on your dipped headlights — this is mandatory in rain and significantly improves your visibility to other road users.
- Watch out for aquaplaning — if the steering feels light and unresponsive, ease off the accelerator gently without braking hard. Keep the wheel straight until the tyres regain grip.
- Be cautious around puddles — they may hide potholes or splash pedestrians. Slow down when driving through standing water.
- Beware of Maltese drainage — some roads in Malta can flood quickly during heavy rain due to limited drainage infrastructure. Avoid driving through deep water and choose alternative routes if possible.
Driving in fog
Although fog is less common in Malta than in northern European countries, it can occur during the cooler months, especially inland and in low-lying areas. The rules to follow:
- Use your fog lights correctly — the rear fog light should only be used when visibility drops below 100 metres. Front fog lights can complement your dipped headlights.
- Keep your speed low — when visibility is below 50 metres, do not exceed 50 km/h. The examiner will check that you respect this.
- Never use full beam — high beam headlights reflect off fog droplets and make visibility even worse.
- Follow road markings — white lines and cat's eyes help you stay in your lane when you cannot see far ahead.
Driving in strong winds
Malta is particularly exposed to strong winds, especially during autumn and winter storms. Wind can catch you off guard, so keep the following in mind:
- Keep both hands on the wheel — a firm grip gives you better control if a sudden gust pushes the car sideways.
- Watch for gaps between buildings — when you drive past an opening between buildings or along an exposed stretch of road, crosswinds can hit you unexpectedly.
- Be aware of other road users — motorcyclists, cyclists and high-sided vehicles are more affected by wind. Give them extra space.
- Anticipate debris — strong winds can blow branches, bins or loose objects onto the road. Stay alert and scan ahead.
Prepare in advance
The best way to prepare for driving in bad weather is to practise in those conditions. Ask your instructor to schedule lessons on rainy or windy days. The more experience you gain, the more confident you will be on test day.
With SteerClear, you can explore practice routes around your test centre and familiarise yourself with the roads the examiner may use. By driving these routes in different weather conditions, you will know exactly what to expect.
Checklist for your test day in bad weather
- Check the windscreen wipers, lights and tyre pressure before setting off
- Clean all windows — windscreen, side windows and rear window
- Locate the controls for demisting, ventilation and fog lights
- Bring a dry cloth for fogged-up windows
- Wear shoes with non-slip soles for good pedal grip
Stay calm and drive smart
Bad weather is not an obstacle — it is an opportunity to prove that you are a well-rounded, responsible driver. Take a deep breath, adapt your driving and trust your training. With the right preparation and mindset, you will pass your driving test, rain or shine.