A threaded fastener drive simulator includes a threaded rod having first and second ends. A driver head is fixed to the first end of the threaded rod, and a threaded nut is threaded onto the rod in a position between the first and second ends of the threaded ro. A support assembly supports the threaded rod in such a way as to facilitate rotational movement of the driver head and the threaded nut in order to simulate movement of a threaded fastener to be driven. Using this mechanism prior to driving the fastener, the fastener drive simulator is actuated by orienting the fastener drive simulator in the same orientation as the fastener to be driven, and the drive head or nut is rotated to confirm the correct direction to rotate the fastener to affect desired movement of the fastener.