Not using your mirrors and poor observations at junctions is the number one reason learners fail their driving tests, according to driving instructors. Recent data from learner driver insurer Veygo revealed the top reasons learners fail on their driving tests since 2008.
The remaining top six reasons include turning right at a junction, steering control, positioning when driving normally and control when moving off. Learners are at a further disadvantage if they fail on their first try, with the pandemic backlog expected to continue until 2024.
The DVSA is recruiting an additional 300 examiners to combat this and reduce the waiting period to nine weeks by the end of 2022. James Armstrong, CEO of Veygo, claims the wait time is 'paying off' as driving test pass rates are at an all-time high.
Read more: Where you're more likely to pass your driving test in the UK
He said: “The driving test pass rate is at an all-time high (49.8%) - 4% higher than the rate before the pandemic, giving learners an almost 50/50 chance of passing their driving test. The number of no-fault passes is also at an all-time high of 3.3% versus 2.6% pre-pandemic.
"So, while waiting to take your test can be frustrating, the extended time to practice is paying off, with learners taking advantage of the added time to prepare ahead of their test.”
In order to pass the 45-minute driving test, learners need fewer than 15 minor faults and no major faults. There are three variations of faults learners need to avoid during a practical test: a dangerous fault, involving danger to you and anything around you; a serious fault, something potentially dangerous; and a driving fault.
Driving faults aren't dangerous and you won't fail for it but if you keep making the same mistake then it becomes a serious fault. The current wait time for a test is six months.
In order to avoid failing your test, Cardiff driving instructor Louise Dale asks learners not to "rush" their driving test. She said: “Rushing causes so many problems. Once you start rushing, it’s difficult to stop.
"Observations are also key, and inadequate observations during manoeuvres and when changing speed or direction are common. You can’t pass your test without knowing what’s going on around the car. Remember you can correct your manoeuvre, but you can’t redo observations that were missed.”
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