The main reasons learners fail their driving tests

If you’re new to the road and taking lessons in order to pass your driving test, you might want to watch out for these common mistakes.

Best of luck!

If you’ve just started lessons and can’t wait to get yourself onto the open road as an official driver, you might want to make sure you avoid any of these common mistakes – and surprisingly, the most common don’t even involve a manoeuvre!

Poor observation – stay alert!

The main reason that learner drivers flunk their tests is due to poor observation. In such a high-pressure situation you’ll have so much on your mind, but make sure that you’re paying attention at all times. Keep a keen eye out.

Not checking mirrors

Part of the poor observation is with checking mirrors – a lot of learners don’t do this essential stage. A lot of accidents on British roads are down to lack of mirror usage so if you’re just starting out with driving then make sure you pick up this good habit early and it will stay with you always.

Controlling the car

Controlling the car in a safe and competent manner is so important – so when it comes to steering it’s vital to have your hands in the correct position. No matter the conditions, whether it’s wet, dry or snowy, during your test (and beyond), always ensure that you’ve got full control of the car.

Turning right out of a junction

Turning right out of a junction at an inappropriate time is a surprisingly common mistake that learners make during their tests. Make sure you’re looking both ways before pulling out, and never take a chance – because if the examiner has to step in and use the dual controls it’s an automatic fail!

Moving off safely

Even if you’re not at a junction and just need to move off in traffic, at traffic lights or after pulling over, make sure you’re checking mirrors, getting up to speed at a good rate of acceleration and always double check that there are no hazards that could cause an accident, or a fail.

Read more about young driver insurance.