I Failed My Driving Test: What Am I Doing Wrong?

I have failed my driving test: what am I doing wrong? 

If you have failed your driving test, you are not alone. Failing your driving test does not make you a failure. In fact, it makes you a safer driver in the long run.

Did you know? According to recent statistics, the overall driving test pass rate is just about 46% which means more than 1 in 2 drivers do not pass their driving test the first time. With over 1.6 million driving tests conducted every year, that means thousands of people in Britain are walking away from a failed driving test every day.

If you're thinking, "I Failed My Driving Test: What Am I Doing Wrong?" our quick guide on how to pass the driving test the first time will help you pick up the pieces and get back behind the wheel.

How to Pass Driving Test First Time?

First things first: let's look at the most common reasons people do not pass the driving test the first time? Here are the top reasons according to the DVSA:

  • Junctions: observation
  • Mirrors: change direction
  • Control: steering
  • Junctions: turning right
  • Move off: safely
  • Response to signs: traffic lights
  • Move off: control
  • Positioning: normal driving
  • Response to signs: road markings
  • Reverse park: control

The top two on the list are about not looking around enough at junctions and not using mirrors correctly when changing direction; these were the main reasons for 368,047 test failures. Imagine that!

So, how to pass your driving test the first time?

  1. Give yourself a break - If you did not pass the driving test the first time, give yourself a break – because, let's be honest, there's absolutely nothing natural about driving a car.
  2. Get back behind the wheel - Failing your driving test can feel like a huge blow to your confidence, and it can be tempting to have a few weeks off to get over it. The problem with this is skills fade: the longer you spend away from the car, the more you'll forget about driving. Therefore, try not to leave it for more than a few days before arranging your next lesson.
  3. Get a good driving instructor – Our Approved Driving Instructors make sure we cover all the reasons why people don't pass the driving test the first time. This significantly increases your chances of passing the driving test.
  4. Get lots of extra practice – There is no secret that practice makes perfect. Perfect your driving skills with lots of practice and perhaps even a Mock Driving Test. Our pass assist lessons are a great way to get back your confidence on the wheel.
  5.  Book another driving test –  This time, you will be better prepared to demonstrate your driving skill.

If you still need a little cheering up after failing your test, take a look at our blog on how to tackle weak points before your UK driving test and How To Pass Driving Test First Time for more information...

Would you like to learn how practical Mock Driving Test and pass-assist lessons can help you pass the driving test the first time? You can contact us now, and our team will be delighted to help you.



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