Here is the latest Driving and Vehicle Standards Agency (DVSA) list of the top ten reasons why folk fail their test. It is based on data from between April 2022 and March 2023.
The agency advises if you are repeatedly making the mistakes listed below, then it is better to keep learning with your instructor before taking your test.
Top 10 reasons for driving test fails in 2023
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.
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
- Ask anyone helping you with private practice to keep a record too so you can share it with your driving instructor.
Finally, check out our blog about the 27 driving skills you need to pass your driving test. Nail these and you’re one step closer to getting your hands on your driving licence.
Know Your Code
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