Passing the driving test is a significant milestone, but it can also be daunting. The DVSA has released updated statistics for 2024 on the most common reasons learners fail their driving test, offering valuable insights for anyone preparing for this important exam. In this post, we’ll explore these top reasons, compare them to the trends from 2021, and provide actionable tips to help you avoid common mistakes.
Top 10 Reasons Learners Fail in 2024
Let’s count down the key failures and how to avoid them.
10. Use of Speed
Speed mistakes include:
- Driving too fast for the conditions or road type.
- Need to slow down in time for speed limit changes.
- Hesitating and driving too slowly disrupt traffic flow.
Tip: Stay aware of speed limit signs and adjust your speed to road conditions and traffic flow. Practicing on different roads can help you build this skill.
9. Position: Normal Driving
Common positioning errors include:
- Driving too close to the curb or too far into the road.
- Incorrect lane positioning on multi-lane roads.
- Failing to stay centred when navigating bends.
Tip: Practice lane discipline and anticipate changes in the road layout to maintain proper positioning.
8. Not Responding to Road Markings
Ignoring or misinterpreting road markings can lead to faults such as:
- Using the wrong lane at junctions or roundabouts.
- Stopping incorrectly in yellow box junctions.
- Failing to follow arrows directing traffic flow.
Tip: Stay alert for road markings, especially in urban areas where changes can be sudden.
7. Not Responding to Traffic Signs
Mistakes include:
- Ignoring “No Entry” or “Give Way” signs.
- Failing to recognise temporary roadworks or detour signs.
- Entering bus lanes during restricted hours.
Tip: Brush up on road signs using the Highway Code and take practice tests to improve recognition.
6. Steering Control
Steering mistakes often involve:
- Oversteering or understeering at bends.
- Losing control when turning into tight spaces.
- Drifting off course due to lack of focus.
Tip: Practice controlled, smooth steering during lessons, and take extra care in challenging areas like tight bends or narrow roads.
5. Not Responding to Traffic Lights
Errors include:
- Running red or amber lights.
- Failing to stop fully at advanced stop lines.
- Hesitating unnecessarily at green lights.
Tip: Anticipate traffic light changes as you approach and maintain a steady speed to avoid abrupt stops.
4. Incorrect Position When Turning Right
Failing here involves:
- Not using ghost islands properly.
- Positioning too far left, causing confusion for other road users.
- Taking the wrong lane when navigating roundabouts.
Tip: Take time to practice positioning for right turns during lessons, focusing on using road markings and observing traffic flow.
3. Not Moving Off Safely
Mistakes include:
- Failing to check mirrors and blind spots before moving off.
- Pulling out into traffic when unsafe.
Tip: Always perform a full mirror and blind-spot check before moving off. Make this part of your routine.
2. Not Checking Mirrors When Changing Direction
Mirror checks are crucial when:
- Overtaking cyclists or parked vehicles.
- Changing lanes on dual carriageways.
- Merging onto new roads or turning at junctions.
Tip: Make it a habit to check mirrors every time you change speed or direction.
1. Poor Observations at Junctions
Junction observations remain the most common reason learners fail. Common mistakes include:
- Failing to look properly at closed junctions.
- Misjudging the speed of oncoming traffic.
- Pulling out when it’s unsafe to do so.
Tip: Approach junctions with caution and use the “Peep and Creep” method to improve visibility when needed.
What’s Changed Since 2021?
The 2024 list introduces use of speed and road markings as top fail reasons, reflecting the increasing importance of these skills. Meanwhile, move-off control and reverse park control have dropped off, possibly due to the rise in automatic car driving tests (now 21% of tests vs. 11% in 2021).
Here’s a comparison of the top reasons for failing in 2024 versus 2021:
|
Reason |
2024 Rank |
2021 Rank |
Trend |
|
Poor Observations at Junctions |
1 |
1 |
It remains the top reason for test failures. |
|
Not Checking Mirrors When Changing Direction |
2 |
2 |
Consistently crucial for safe driving. |
|
Not Moving Off Safely |
3 |
3 |
No change; observations are key. |
|
Incorrect Position When Turning Right |
4 |
4 |
A recurring challenge for learners. |
|
Not Responding to Traffic Lights |
5 |
5 |
Steady issue with awareness of signals. |
|
Steering Control |
6 |
6 |
Still a significant skill to master. |
|
Not Responding to Traffic Signs |
7 |
7 |
Learners must improve sign recognition. |
|
Not Responding to Road Markings |
8 |
– |
Newly highlighted as a critical fault. |
|
Position: Normal Driving |
9 |
8 |
Continues to be a common mistake. |
|
Use of Speed |
10 |
– |
Added to reflect focus on speed management. |
Key Takeaways for Learners
- Observation and anticipation are critical. Stay alert to signs, road markings, and traffic flow.
- Master the basics: Steering, positioning, and mirror checks are foundational skills.
- Prepare for real-world scenarios: Practicing with an instructor can help you handle challenges confidently.
Learn to Drive with Confidence
At Oxon Driving Tuitions, we focus on preparing learners for every aspect of the driving test. With expert instructors and personalised lessons, we’ll help you overcome common pitfalls and build confidence behind the wheel.