Top 10 reasons why drivers fail their driving test (DVSA)

Prospective drivers are advised to take a look at the list to make sure they do not fall into common mistakes.

The DVSA says: “You must be a good driver to pass your driving test.

“If you consistently make any of the mistakes explained in this guide during your driving lessons or private practice, you are not ready to take your driving test.

“Use the examples with your instructor and supervising driver to identify areas where you need to further develop your knowledge, skills and understanding.”

These are the top ten reasons why drivers fail their driving test in the UK.

1. No effective observations at intersections

Drivers must always conduct a thorough observation before entering a new road to ensure that the journey is safe.

Errors caused by insufficient observation will be counted as errors in the driving test.

2. Using mirrors incorrectly when changing direction

You must always make full and effective use of all mirrors, look carefully in the mirrors before signalling, changing direction or changing speed and apply the “mirror – signal – manoeuvre” routine effectively.

Any errors you make in this area when changing direction will be counted as a “mirror – change of direction” error in your driving test.

3. Unsafe starting

The driver must be able to start safely, taking into account the correct observations, at the side of the road, on an uphill or downhill slope (decline), as well as from behind a parked vehicle, i.e. he must start at an angle.

Errors in this area will be counted as “Starting – Safety” in the driving test.

4. Incorrect positioning when turning right at intersections

You must be able to position the car as close to the centre of the road as is safely possible.

Mistakes in this area will be counted as “Intersections – Turning right” errors in your driving test.

5. Insufficient control over the steering

Drivers need to be able to steer their cars as smoothly as possible. They also need to steer at the right time, because steering too early or too late can cause the car to hit the curb or swerve in the direction of another road user.

Errors in this area will be counted as “control – steering” errors during the driving test.

6. Incorrect reaction to traffic lights

Drivers must behave correctly at traffic lights and check that the road is clear before proceeding when the light is green.

Errors in this area will be included in the driving test as “Reaction to signs – traffic lights” errors.

7. Incorrect reaction to traffic signs

You must understand all traffic signs and be able to respond to them correctly.

Any errors in this area will be displayed in your result as “Response to signals – traffic signs”.

8. Poor positioning on the road during normal driving

When overtaking, you must be able to position the vehicle correctly for the intended route, keep the vehicle in the center of the marked lanes and change lanes only when necessary.

Any error you make in this area will be counted as a “Positioning – Normal Driving” error on your driving test.

9. Incorrect reaction to road markings

You must understand all road markings and be able to respond to them correctly.

Errors in this area will be counted as “Reaction to signals – lane markings” errors in your driving test.

10. Do not maintain control of the vehicle when reversing

You need to be able to control the car precisely when parallel parking on the side of the road or reversing into a parking space.

Mistakes in this area will be counted as “Reverse parking – control” errors in your driving test.