POOR OBSERVATIONS AT JUNCTIONS

Driving too quickly into a junction with poor observation results in the most common reason for failing a driving test. Always approach a junction at an appropriate speed so that you have time to observe properly. Don't emerge into the path of another vehicle unless you are sure it's safe.

MOVING AWAY UNSAFELY

When you move off, make sure it's safe! Check your blind spots are clear, use your mirrors and signal if necessary. Don't pull out into the path of other traffic if you will make them brake or swerve.

UNDER-USE OF MIRRORS

Not using your mirrors properly is a common mistake - look in them and react to the information.  Remember to check your mirrors properly when speeding up or slowing down, when changing your lane or road position, or when pulling away or stopping.

REVERSE PARKING MANOUEVRE PROBLEMS

Reverse parking requires good car control, combined with judgement and observation. Keep slow, giving yourself plenty of time to manoeuvre the vehicle accurately and to observe other vehicles, pedestrians, and cyclists and stop if they approach.

OBEYING TRAFFIC LIGHTS CORRECTLY

When you see a red light, ensure you stop in the correct position on the road. When you see a green light respond correctly, especially when at large junctions with multiple lanes.

POOR STEERING CONTROL

Remember to steer smoothly, and keep the car in the correct road position at all times. Be especially careful at very tight junctions, as cutting the corner or mounting the kerb could be dangerous, and may result in a fail. When the road has marked lanes, stay in your lane correctly as straddling lanes will cause danger.

STALLING OR ROLLING BACK WHEN MOVING OFF

Make sure you always pull away in 1st gear! Use the accelerator and clutch gently to avoid stalling. If on a hill release the handbrake at the correct time so you don't roll back.

POOR RESPONSE TO ROAD MARKINGS

Make sure you see any road markings and obey them. Common faults are crossing solid white lines unnecessarily and ignoring direction arrows in lanes at junctions. Don't stop in a yellow box junction if your exit isn't clear – make sure you know the rules!

HESITATING AT BUSY JUNCTIONS

If there is lots of traffic, you might have to be patient to find a safe gap. However, not moving away when a safe gap appears will delay other traffic and cause frustration.  

DRIVING TOO SLOWLY

If the road you are on is clear and safe, then drive near to the speed limit and not unnecessarily slow. Driving too slow can be frustrating for other road users causing them to make unsafe actions such as overtaking - be confident and keep up with the flow of traffic.