Top 10 Reasons People Failed Their Driving Test in 2024–25

Top 10 Reasons People Failed Their Driving Test in 2024–25 — and How to Avoid Them

Passing your driving test is a huge milestone — but for more than half of learners in Great Britain, it ends in disappointment. The latest DVSA report, covering April 2024 to March 2025, reveals the 10 most common reasons people failed their test.

The good news? Knowing these pitfalls can help you prepare smarter, stay calmer, and boost your chances of success.

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1. Not Making Effective Observations at Junctions

The mistake: Pulling out without properly checking traffic, or misjudging a vehicle’s speed or distance.

Avoid it: Use the “look, assess, decide” method. Always double-check both ways, and if you’re unsure, wait — better to hesitate briefly than take a dangerous risk.

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2. Not Using Mirrors Correctly When Changing Direction

The mistake: Failing to check mirrors before signalling or steering, such as when exiting a roundabout or switching lanes.

Avoid it: Make mirror checks part of your muscle memory: mirror, signal, manoeuvre — every single time.

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3. Not Moving Off Safely

The mistake: Pulling away without checking blind spots, or moving into the path of another road user.

Avoid it: Before every start, do a full 360-degree check — mirrors, blind spot, signal — and only move when it’s clear.

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4. Incorrect Positioning When Turning Right at Junctions

The mistake: Sitting in the wrong lane or cutting across traffic when preparing to turn right.

Avoid it: Practise lane discipline. On approach, check road markings and position your car correctly, well in advance.

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5. Not Responding Appropriately to Traffic Lights

The mistake: Going through a red light, stopping past the line, or failing to go when the light turns green.

Avoid it: Approach lights ready to react smoothly. Scan ahead and prepare for changes to avoid rushed or hesitant decisions.

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6. Poor Steering Control

The mistake: Steering too late or too little, clipping kerbs, or veering too wide.

Avoid it: Practise controlled, steady steering — no sudden movements. Smooth, predictable steering shows confidence and control.

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7. Not Responding Correctly to Road Markings

The mistake: Straddling lanes, ignoring solid lines, or misjudging box junction rules.

Avoid it: Stay alert to road markings. Scan the road ahead, and use your mirrors to maintain proper lane discipline.

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8. Not Responding Correctly to Traffic Signs

The mistake: Missing or ignoring signs — like entering a “no entry” zone or choosing the wrong lane at a roundabout.

Avoid it: Actively scan for signs and repeat their meaning in your head. It keeps you aware and ready to respond.

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9. Poor Road Positioning During Normal Driving

The mistake: Driving too close to the kerb or the centre line, or lingering unnecessarily in the right-hand lane.

Avoid it: Keep your car central in the lane unless overtaking or preparing to turn. Consistent positioning builds confidence and safety.

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10. Driving at an Unsafe or Unreasonable Speed

The mistake: Either driving too fast for conditions or too slowly, creating hazards for others.

Avoid it: Match your speed to the road and conditions. Safe driving isn’t about sticking rigidly to the limit — it’s about using judgement.

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Why These Mistakes Matter

The DVSA stresses that these faults aren’t just about test rules — they’re about real-world safety. Many of these errors are also common causes of road accidents, which is why examiners take them seriously.

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How to Beat the Odds

• Practise these areas deliberately:Ask your instructor for targeted lessons on junctions, mirror checks, and positioning.

• Simulate test pressure:Do mock tests to get used to the nerves.

• Stay calm:Deep breathing, familiar routes, and positive thinking can make a big difference on the day.

• Be test-ready, not test-hopeful:If you consistently struggle in one area, delay your test until you’ve mastered it — the wait will be worth it.

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Final Thoughts

The driving test is designed to check if you’re safe to be on the road — not perfect. By focusing on these 10 common pitfalls, you’ll be better prepared, more confident, and far more likely to pass.

Remember: every practice session builds habits that last long after you’ve got your licence. Drive safe — and good luck on your test day!