The Driving and Vehicle Standards Agency (DVSA) has updated its list of the top ten faults learners make during their driving test. This covers the most common faults made from 2007 up to and including 2022, offering great insights into what mistakes learners keep making year after year.
Here’s a countdown of the top five faults to make sure you don’t fall foul of them during your own test:
5. Move off (safely)
While control (steering) and junction (turning right) have both featured in number five, it’s moving off safely that takes the crown.
Remember, the Highway Code’s rule 159 states you must use all mirrors to check the road is clear, look round to check blind spots (see number 2), signal if necessary before moving out, and always look round for a final check.
4. Junctions (turning right)
Between 2007 and 2010, turning right at a junction was in seventh position of the most common faults. However in recent years, it’s moved up into the top five – mainly at number four (but sometimes making it into the top three).
To avoid the fault, don’t block traffic with poor positioning, don’t fail to give way to oncoming traffic and be sure to observe any pedestrians on the road you’re about to turn down…
3. Control (steering)
Correct steering use has become an increasing problem over the last 15 years. Previously placing just outside the top five or at number five, in recent times, the issue has now landed at number three for several years running. The ability to steer smoothly, accurately or in a timely fashion are vital to snaring a fault-free pass on the big day.
2. Use of mirrors (change direction)
The most common second reason for being faulted is not using your mirrors when changing direction. Rule 161 of the Highway Code states that you should use them in good time before you change direction and be aware that mirrors do not cover all areas i.e., you are left with blind spots. It means always look round and check physically, instead of solely relying on your mirrors.
1. Junctions (observation)
At number one, it’s been the single most common fault year on year for the past 15 years – observation when at a junction. This is a constant thorn in the side of learners. Many are tripped up by the need to observe other approaching vehicles from the left and right and judge their speed and direction accordingly before deciding to emerge into traffic.
The simple rule of thumb? If you’re not sure if it’s safe to pull out, wait until you are.
• Check out the full top ten here at the DVSA’s website.
Know Your Code
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