Understanding Driving Test Faults (UK)

By360pmz

Driving Fault (Often Called a Minor fault)

Definition, small mistakes that do not pose an immediate danger or risk, but show lapses in skill, control, or observation

Examples:

  • Still in the car, but recovering safely
  • Hesitating slightly too long at a junction
  • Gear selection, slightly late or early

Impact

  • You are allowed up to 15 minor faults
  • 16 or more minor faults will result in a fail
  • Too many minor faults in the same area can be marked as a serious fault

2. Serious Fault

  • Definition of a mistake that could potentially be dangerous, or has a clear safety implication, even if no immediate danger occurs

Examples

  • Poor observations at the roundabout, causing other road users to react
  • Poor Lane, discipline
  • Not giving away correctly at a junction

Impact

  • One series fault will result in an automatic fail
  • Shows a significant area of unsafe or poor driving skill

3. Dangerous Faults

  • Definition a fault that has caused or could have caused, an actual danger to you, the examiner other road users, or property

Examples

  • Pulling out into the path of an oncoming vehicle
  • Ignoring a red traffic light
  • Mounting the pavement, while driving.

Impact

  • One dangerous fault is an immediate fail.
  • The examiner may intervene or prevent an accident.

Key reminders

  • Examiners want to see safe, competent, Driving.
  • A single serious or dangerous fault and the test, even if everything else is good.
  • Stay calm and focus on safety, observations, and good decision-making.

For more information regarding how a driving test is marked in the UK click on the link below

https://www.gov.uk/guidance/understanding-your-driving-test-result/car-driving-test

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