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Top 10 Reasons for Driving Test Fails

1. Not making effective observations at junctions

For example:

  • Failing to judge the speed of an approaching vehicle
  • Entering a roundabout with a vehicle approaching from the right
  • Making no effective observations whatsoever…

2. Not using mirrors correctly when changing direction

For example:

  • Not using mirrors when exiting a roundabout
  • Trying to change lane on a roundabout when a vehicle is directly alongside.

3. Not moving off safely

For example:

  • Repeatedly moving off from the side of the road with no blind spot checks
  • Not making any rear observations when moving off following an emergency stop.

4. Incorrect positioning when turning right at junctions

For example:

  • Obstructing traffic when you wait to turn right
  • When you want to turn right at the end of the road, you incorrectly position to the left.

5. Not having proper control of the steering

For example:

  • Not steering enough when going around a bend
  • Repeatedly mounting the pavement when pulling up on the left.
  • Steering late when moving out to pass parked vehicles.

6. Not responding appropriately to traffic lights

For example:

  • Failing to react to a red traffic light
  • Going ahead when a green light is showing but the junction is not clear.

7. Not responding correctly to traffic signs

For example:

  • Going to the wrong side of a ‘keep left’ sign
  • Driving in a bus lane.

8. Poor positioning on the road during normal driving

For example:

  • Unnecessarily driving in the right-hand lane of a dual carriageway
  • Repeatedly driving too close to the kerb or centre of the road.

9. Not responding correctly to road markings

For example:

  • Not following direction arrows on the road
  • Straddling lanes on a roundabout
  • Ignoring a box junction.

10. Not keeping control of the vehicle during reverse parking

For example:

  • Wheels ending up on the pavement at the end of a parallel park
  • Losing control of the car when parking in a bay.

Important Tips

How to avoid a driving test fail:

  • To help you get that all-important pass first time, the DVSA recommends you discuss the above list with your driving instructor plus:
  • Ask them to keep a record of your driving lessons so you know which areas you have covered and which need more work
  • Always practice until you become consistently good, consistent & independent on all 27 driving skills
  • Finally agree with your instructor that you are ready for the test as DVSA advised.

Your instructor’s experience and knowledge will ensure you are fully prepared for the test. A good rule of thumb is: if you are not consistently getting things right during your lessons, you may not be ready for the test yet. Patience and preparation are key to passing.