Passing the driving test is a major milestone, but many learners fail due to simple and avoidable mistakes — often caused by stress, inexperience, or rushing decisions. Examiners focus on safety, observation, and control, so even small errors can turn into faults.
Below are the 10 most common mistakes learners make during the driving test and practical strategies to avoid each one.
1. Poor Observation at Junctions
One of the leading causes of test failure is inadequate observation when approaching junctions, roundabouts, and intersections. Many learners look too quickly or fail to properly assess both sides.
How to Avoid It
- Make a full and deliberate left–right–left check before moving.
- Slow down enough to give yourself time to observe.
- If your view is restricted, pause briefly and edge forward slowly.
- Move only when you’re completely sure the road is safe.
2. Incorrect Road Positioning
Learners sometimes drift out of their lane, drive too close to the curb, or misalign their vehicle while turning or approaching roundabouts.
How to Avoid It
- Maintain a consistent lane position using reference points or road markings.
- Keep a safe distance from cyclists, parked cars, and the curb.
- Practise judging your car’s size and position on the road.
3. Overly Hesitant Driving
Being too cautious can interrupt traffic flow. Many learners wait too long at junctions or hesitate when the road is clearly safe.
How to Avoid It
- Learn to judge appropriate gaps in traffic.
- Build confidence through repetitive practice.
- Remember: safe driving means being decisive—not overly slow.
4. Not Checking Mirrors Often Enough
Examiners expect frequent and well-timed mirror checks, especially before changing direction or speed.
How to Avoid It
Follow the MSM routine:
- Mirror – check centre and side mirrors
- Signal – indicate when necessary
- Manoeuvre – complete your action safely
Use this before turning, overtaking, slowing down, or pulling over.
5. Poor Speed Control
Learners often fail for driving too fast, too slowly, or not adjusting speed to the conditions of the road.
How to Avoid It
- Always follow the speed limits.
- Adjust speed for curves, traffic, and weather.
- Practise smooth acceleration and controlled braking.
- Drive confidently — not timidly or aggressively.
6. Misjudging Roundabouts
Roundabouts are a common stress point during driving tests. Mistakes include improper lane use, hesitation, or failure to give right of way.
How to Avoid It
- Read road signs and lane markings early.
- Approach slowly and prepare to stop if necessary.
- Give priority to vehicles coming from the right.
- Signal clearly and exit smoothly.
7. Poor Steering Control
Common errors include steering too late, steering too wide, and overcorrecting during turns and manoeuvres.
How to Avoid It
- Keep both hands on the wheel (except during gear changes).
- Use steady and smooth steering instead of sudden movements.
- Slow down before corners and turns.
- Look in the direction you want the car to move.
8. Wrong or Mis-timed Signals
Signaling too early, too late, or forgetting to cancel indicators can confuse other drivers and result in faults.
How to Avoid It
- Signal only when it’s relevant to other road users.
- Cancel your indicators after manoeuvres.
- Don’t rush your signals — time them properly.
9. Errors During Manoeuvres
Parking, reversing, and control-based manoeuvres often cause learners to panic or rush, resulting in faults like hitting the curb.
How to Avoid It
- Practise all required manoeuvres until you feel confident.
- Use slow clutch control when reversing.
- Adjust mirrors before beginning the manoeuvre.
- Take your time — control matters more than speed.
10. Failing to React to Hazards
Many learners fail because they don’t respond quickly or safely to developing hazards like pedestrians, cyclists, or sudden stops from other vehicles.
How to Avoid It
- Continuously scan the road ahead and around you.
- Keep a safe distance to allow for proper reaction time.
- Anticipate potential hazards early.
- Reduce speed in high-risk areas like schools or busy crossings.
Final Tips for Passing Your Driving Test
To maximise your chances of success:
- Practise on typical test routes.
- Stay calm and keep breathing steadily.
- Don’t dwell on a single mistake — move on confidently.
- Listen carefully to examiner instructions.
- Trust your training and stay focused.