The DTC
Test Day9 min read

The Most Common Driving Test Faults

Every year the DVSA publishes the top reasons learners fail. Knowing what these faults are — and how to avoid them — puts you in a much stronger position on test day.

The full guide

The DVSA publishes annual data on why learners fail their driving test, and the same faults appear at the top of the list year after year. Knowing what these faults are — and understanding how to avoid them — gives you a considerable advantage.

The most common serious fault is poor observation at junctions. This includes pulling out when it is not safe, failing to check blind spots, and misjudging the speed of approaching traffic. At every junction, slow down early, check your mirrors, look both ways, and only proceed when you are completely certain it is safe.

The second most frequent fault is incorrect mirror use. Forgetting to check before signalling, changing speed, or changing direction costs marks repeatedly. The examiner watches for mirror checks at critical moments: before junctions, roundabouts, lane changes, and manoeuvres. Make your checks clear and visible.

Steering control ranks third. Hitting the kerb, mounting the pavement, or failing to steer enough through bends are all avoidable with correct hand position and looking well ahead.

Other recurring faults include poor lane positioning and corner-cutting; unsafe moving off without proper observation; loss of control during reversing manoeuvres; failure to respond to traffic signals and road markings; and driving at an inappropriate speed for the conditions.

Common faults

  • Pulling out at junctions when it is not safe to do so
  • Missing mirror checks before signalling or changing direction
  • Hitting the kerb or poor steering accuracy
  • Wandering between lanes or cutting corners on bends
  • Moving off without checking mirrors and blind spots
  • Losing control or accuracy during reverse manoeuvres
  • Ignoring or reacting late to traffic lights, signs, and markings
  • Driving too fast or too slow for the road and weather conditions

What the examiner looks for

  • Complete observation at every junction before emerging
  • Mirror checks before every signal, speed change, and direction change
  • Smooth, controlled steering with hands in the correct position
  • Consistent lane positioning and correct line through bends
  • Thorough all-around checks before moving off from stationary
  • Slow, controlled reversing with continuous observation
  • Prompt and correct response to all traffic signals and road markings
  • Speed that matches road conditions, traffic levels, and weather

Quick tips

  1. 1Ask your instructor to target your weakest areas in the final lessons before your test
  2. 2Take a full mock test under realistic conditions — it reveals faults that routine lessons hide
  3. 3Practise in varied conditions: rain, darkness, and busy traffic build real competence
  4. 4Get a good night's sleep before the test — tiredness magnifies every mistake
  5. 5Eat a light meal beforehand — low blood sugar reduces concentration and reaction times

Common questions about the most common driving test faults

How many minor faults am I allowed?
You may accumulate up to 15 minor faults and still pass. However, a single serious or dangerous fault results in an automatic fail. Repeated minor faults in the same area can also be upgraded to a serious fault.
What is the difference between serious and dangerous faults?
A serious fault is something that could have caused danger. A dangerous fault actually created danger or required the examiner to take action. Both result in a fail, but dangerous faults are considered more severe.
Can I still pass if I stall the car?
Usually yes. Stalling is normally recorded as a minor fault. It becomes serious only if it happens repeatedly, or if you stall in a dangerous place such as a junction and cause obstruction or confusion.
Which fault fails the most tests?
Poor observation at junctions. Emerging when it is unsafe is consistently the number one reason for test failure in Great Britain. This includes misjudging approaching speed and neglecting blind spot checks.
How many lessons should I have before booking the test?
Most learners need 40 to 50 hours of professional tuition plus private practice. Do not book until your instructor confirms you are ready. Attempting the test too early is the main reason people fail.
What counts as a driving fault?
Anything below the standard expected of a competent driver. Minor faults are small errors without danger. Serious faults are potentially dangerous. Dangerous faults involve actual danger to yourself, the examiner, or other road users.

Ready to put this into practice?

These guides are a great starting point, but nothing replaces working with a DVSA-approved instructor who can give you real-time feedback.

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The Most Common Driving Test Faults | The DTC