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When preparing for your practical driving test, knowing the skills you’ll need to demonstrate is just one side of the coin. Equally important is understanding the behaviours and actions you must avoid—these are referred to as driving test faults.

In this guide, we’ll explain the different types of faults, including those that can result in an automatic fail. By knowing what to avoid, you can sharpen your skills and steer clear of any potential issues.

Let’s dive in!

What is a Fault?

A fault refers to any instance where your driving falls below the standard expected by your examiner. This could range from forgetting to check your mirrors before moving off, to causing a collision. Faults are categorised into three levels:

• Dangerous Faults: Actions that cause immediate danger to you, the examiner, the public, or property.
• Serious Faults: Actions that have the potential to cause danger.
• Driving Faults: Minor issues that are not immediately dangerous but could escalate if repeated.

The first two categories—dangerous and serious faults—are often called "majors." Committing even one of these faults will result in an instant fail.

The last category, driving faults, are often referred to as "minors." You won’t fail for a single minor fault, but accumulating more than 15 will result in a fail. Additionally, repeatedly making the same minor fault can lead to it being classified as a serious fault, which could also cause you to fail.

Common Reasons for Faults

Failing to observe properly is one of the most frequent causes of faults during a driving test. Here are some common examples:

• Failing to observe at junctions: Not using Mirror-Signal-Manoeuvre (MSM) correctly or lacking awareness of an approaching junction.
• Not checking mirrors when changing direction: For example, failing to check when making a left turn.
• Poor control of the steering wheel: Such as not keeping your hands on the wheel.
• Incorrect turning at junctions: Pulling out too quickly or positioning incorrectly.
• Moving off unsafely: Failing to follow the MSM routine or not checking your blind spot before setting off.

These are just some of the most common reasons candidates fail their test. While not every fault in these categories will result in failure, understanding these pitfalls can help you avoid them.

For a more comprehensive overview, review the driving test mark sheet or speak to your instructor at Leo Driving School for detailed guidance.

Could a Fault End My Test Early?

The short answer is yes, but only under rare circumstances.

For example, if you fail your eyesight test at the start of the practical, your test will end immediately. In this case, your provisional licence will be revoked, and you’ll need to reapply for a new one.

Outside of this, a test would typically only end early if a candidate commits a particularly dangerous fault.

Frequently Asked Questions About Driving Test Faults

How many minor faults make a major?

You can commit up to 15 minor faults and still pass your test, provided you don’t make any major faults. However, if the same minor fault is repeated multiple times, it may be escalated to a major fault.

How many minors can you have in one category?

There’s no strict rule here, as categories vary in terms of how quickly repeated faults can become dangerous. For example, repeated faults at junctions may quickly escalate to a serious fault, while others might not.

What causes an instant fail?

Any dangerous or serious fault will result in an instant fail. This includes actions that either cause danger or have the potential to do so, such as pulling out into a junction without proper observation.

Is stalling the car an automatic fail?

Stalling is not an automatic fail, as long as it doesn’t obstruct other drivers and you follow the correct procedure to restart the car.

Is coasting a major fault?

Coasting—allowing the car to move without the engine engaged—isn’t a great habit but isn’t necessarily a major fault. If done briefly, it might result in a minor fault. If repeated or dangerous, it could lead to a major fault.

Can I fail for the ‘show me/tell me’ questions?

No, you’ll only receive a minor fault if you answer one or both questions incorrectly.

What happens if I fail a manoeuvre?

Your manoeuvre doesn’t have to be perfect. The examiner is looking for safe control and proper observations. If you oversteer or get too close to the kerb, you can restart. You’ll only fail if your control or observations are poor enough to result in a serious fault.

How long do I have to wait after failing a test?

If you fail your driving test, you must wait 10 working days before booking another one.

Final Thoughts

Although there’s a lot to remember, these are skills and habits your driving instructor at Leo Driving School will help you practise repeatedly. By the time you take your practical test, avoiding these faults should come naturally. Stay calm, focus on what you’ve learned, and you’ll be just fine.

If you’re ready to book lessons or want to brush up on your skills, get in touch with Leo Driving School at 07961976822 to start your journey towards passing with confidence!