Driving test: Top 10 mistakes you should avoid to pass

If you’re unaware of the actions that could make you fail, you might struggle to come out of the test centre holding the all-important pass certificate.

To help you out, the Government has listed the top 10 reasons why learner drivers fail their test so you can understand what you should avoid doing in order to pass yours.

The list shares the top 10 reasons why people failed their car driving tests in Great Britain between April 2022 and March 2023.

Learner drivers must take a driving test to get their full UK licence (Image: Getty Images)

The Government website adds: “You need to be a good driver to pass the driving test. If you regularly make any of the mistakes explained in this guide during your driving lessons or private practice, you’re not ready to take your driving test.

“Use the examples with your driving instructor and supervising driver to help identify any areas where you still need to develop your knowledge, skills and understanding.

“There are 27 skills in total that you need to learn to become a safe driver and pass your driving test.”

You can find examples of each mistake via the Government website.

Top 10 reasons why learner drivers failed their driving test

Not making effective observations at junctions

Drivers need to make sure they always make effective observations before they move into a new road and they must make sure that it is safe to proceed before doing so.

Not using mirrors correctly when changing direction

All of your mirrors should always be used fully and effectively when you are driving and you should check your mirrors before you signal and change direction or speed.

Always effectively use the ‘mirror – signal – manoeuvre’ routine when driving.

Not moving off safely

All drivers must move off safely while making all the right observations – the Government says these must be from the side of the road, on a slope or hill and from behind a parked vehicle so moving off at an angle.

Wrong positioning when it comes to turning right at junctions

When turning right at junctions, the car must be positioned as close to the centre of the road as is safe.

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Incorrect control of the steering

Learner drivers must steer the car as smoothly as possible to avoid failing their test.

Timing is key as steering at the wrong time could mean the car hits the kerb or another motorist.

Responding incorrectly to traffic lights

Drivers must act appropriately at traffic lights and make sure that the road is clear before setting off as the green light shows.

Incorrectly responding to traffic signs

Learner drivers need to be able to react correctly to all traffic signs. It’s important they understand what each one means.

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Incorrect positioning on the road while driving normally

The Government says learner drivers must be able to put the car in the correct position for their route and position it in the middle of marked lanes.

They must also only change lanes when it is necessary.

Responding incorrectly to road markings

Learner drivers need to make sure they understand all road markings and that they obey them correctly.

Stay in control when reversing

When it comes to reverse parking, it’s vital that learner drivers stay in control – this includes during a reverse park into a bay and reversing as part of a parallel park at the side of a road.