The Top 10 Most Common Driving Test Faults by DVSA
New data from the DVSA has revealed that the most common learner driver faults on the practical driving test.
The DVSA analysed the total number of faults recorded in the 1,689,000 practical tests undertaken between March 2022 and 2023.
A learner driver is allowed to make up to 15 faults on the practical driving test, and no major (serious) faults are allowed.
Top 10 Driving Test Faults:
- Junctions (observations)
- Mirrors (change direction)
- Move off (safely)
- Junctions (turning right)
- Control (steering)
- Response to signals (traffic lights)
- Response to signals (traffic signs)
- Positioning (normal driving)
- Response to signals (road markings)
- Reverse park (control)
The observational fault, which seems to be the most common fault, is noted down in instances such as a driver misjudging the speed of an oncoming car, entering a junction when a vehicle is approaching from the right, or not even looking when they approach a junction or roundabout.
Other common faults on the list included failing to take up the correct position when turning right at a junction, not having control of the steering wheel, and failing to respond correctly to traffic lights or road signs.
Top Tips To Help You Pass the Driving Test
- Get professional driving tuition.
Getting professional driving lessons from an instructor can be invaluable. Private practice is great, but you’ll stand the best possible chance of passing after training with a driving instructor.
- Consider an intensive driving course
AKA Crash Course, Fast track Course. Some people prefer to book time off work and spend their time dedicated to their driving tuition. An intensive driving course may work really well for you, especially if you have trouble retaining information on weekly lessons. Intensive courses are usually spread over 1-2 weeks with a driving test on the final day.
- If you don’t feel ready for your test, don’t take it!
Many learner drivers admit to sitting a driving test just to “have a go” when knowing full well that they won’t pass! Not only is this irresponsible, its dangerous! Listen to the advice from your driving instructor, they will advise you best.
- Know that Driving Examiners want you to pass!
Ignore all the horror stories about driving examiners, driving examiners don’t want to make your life hard, they don’t have a fail quota, and they certainly don’t want to fail you for no reason. In fact, it’s easier for them if you do pass as there’s much less paper work for them to complete.
- Private Practice
If you can get out and do private practice with mum and dad (or a family member) then this is great! We advise doing this alongside professional tuition so that your driving instructor can also give advice.
- Don’t put a price or a set amount of hours on your driver training
Somebody that you know may have only had 20 hours and was test ready, this doesn’t mean the same for you. We are all unique and learn at different paces. Avoid putting a price and timeframe on your training, this will reduce the pressure.
- Do a Mock Driving Test
Ask your driving instructor to carry out a mock test, this will give you a snapshot of your current driving ability and highlight any areas of your driving that may require more work.
- Choose a good driving instructor
You’ll usually get what you pay for. Do your research on the driving school or driving instructor. Read their customer feedback. You want a driving school with excellent reviews, a regular flow of driving test passes and a proven track record for delivering quality driving tuition.
- Read the Highway Code
Even if you’ve passed your theory test, study the highway code again! Think of it as the bible for the road, you should have sound up to date knowledge of the rules of the road.
