DVSA reveal the highest 10 causes folks fail their driving checks from mirrors to parking

Practical driving test wait times are longer than ever, with less than half of learners passing the first time – now the DVSA have revealed the top reasons people fail

The DVSA has revealed the top ten reasons people fail their driving tests.

Currently in the UK, the pass rate for driving tests in 2023/24 is 47.9%, with the pass rate on the first attempt being slightly higher at 48.1%. However, the DVSA are reporting higher-than-ever wait times for practical driving tests, meaning they are hoping more people will pass first time to lower wait times. In 2024, more than three million learners are estimated to be waiting for a driving test, including retests.

The average waiting time for a driving test was 15.1 weeks at the end of January 2024, down from 20.6 weeks at its peak in August 2023. But there are ten common mistakes learners make while taking the test.

1. Not using mirrors correctly when changing direction

Frequently checking mirrors is one of the most important driving skills, say the DVSA. Testers look out to make sure learners are checking all of their mirrors while driving, around every five to seven seconds and anytime you enter a new street or complete a manoeuvre.

Any mistakes made by not checking your mirrors will be counted as faults during their driving test. Adding to this, not checking them enough could count as a fault.

2.

Pulling out of junctions can be nerve-wracking for many learners, and can be one of the main areas people tend to fail. Drivers should check both left and right and choose a safe moment to exit.

Adding to this, if the cars behind you are forced to brake, then that could be counted as a fault. Judgement should not be too timid, either.

3.

Drivers must position the car as close to the centre of the road as is safe when turning right. Other cars could pull up to your left if turning in the other direction, if there is enough room to accommodate.

Any mistakes you make in this area will be counted under the”Junctions – Turning right” fault on your driving test result.

4.

Moving off safely is a section in the driving test. Whether at the side of the road, on a hill or in the centre of the road, drivers must have proper view of the surrounding area to ensure they don’t interfere with another car.

5. Poor steering control

Many drivers will remember their instructors drilling home the “9 and 3” position for proper steering etiquette. This means a smooth and firm control of the car.

Adding to this, steering too early or late means drivers could hit a kerb or even another car. Instructors are looking for motorists that can safely control their vehicle.

6. Missing traffic lights

When not paying close enough attention, many learners can go through red traffic lights. Temporary lights are also popping up around the country, confusing many learners.

Either way, failure to adhere to them means an instant fail.

7. Ignoring traffic signs

Likewise, failing to understand what road signs represent cause hundreds of learners to fail their test. The DVSA advise learners study the Highway Code closely.

8. Ignoring road markings

Any mistakes you make in this area will be counted under the ‘Response to signals – Road markings’ fault on your driving test result. Whether it’s a no overtaking area or traffic control markings, they are vital to understand.

9. Bad road positioning

Drivers must always position themselves in the centre of the road and only move when changing lanes or avoiding a hazard. When they move, learners must look all around and check their mirrors before moving.

Hitting kerbs count as a fail in the practical test.

10. Poor reverse parking skills

Parking is a manouvre that can confuse even seasoned drivers, let alone learners. You must be able to control the car accurately when you parallel park, park in a bay or reverse park.

Any mistakes will come under the ‘Reverse park – Control’ fault on your driving test result.

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