Get all your news in one place.
100’s of premium titles.
One app.
Start reading
Daily Record
Daily Record
Lifestyle
Daniel Morrow & Sam Elliott-Gibbs

Seven common driving test mistakes made by learners revealed by leading instructor

A leading driving instructor has revealed the seven common mistakes that learner drivers make before sitting their test.

The Covid pandemic has meant that a number of learners have waited months to get the opportunity to earn that pink driving licence.

Ever changing lockdown restrictions saw driving lessons halted and tests cancelled over the past two years, the Mirror reports.

And examiners still appear to be working through the backlog of people seeking out a test.

As a result of the past two years, many learners are jumping in that little bit too early.

Ian Fido, who is the head of training at RED Driving School, said that the pass rate for learners taking their test last year was just over half.

He told The Sun : “With the delays in being able to book a driving test there is increasing pressure on learners to pass first time.

“For those who were able to take their tests last year, the pass rate was just over half (50.5 per cent), according to the Driver and Vehicle Standards Agency (DVSA).”

Learners should consider going out for a practice test before the big one (Getty Images)

He explained that one of the most common mistakes made by learner drivers is booking their test when they’re not quite ready.

The expert has also urged learners to have everything prepared prior to the big day - including having your driving licence with you, your theory test pass certificate and a face covering.

Learners should take a practice test with their instructor before stepping up for the real deal - at this point you can brush up on your road signs, observe your surroundings and get used to checking your mirror frequently.

Also it is worth brushing up on the Highway Code - especially with new changes that came into effect from last weekend.

The seven common mistakes:

  • Booking a test when you’re not ready
  • Forgetting to check your mirrors
  • Not taking a practice test first
  • Not knowing the road signs
  • Not being prepared
  • Not moving off safely
  • Not knowing your surroundings

Don't miss the latest news from around Scotland and beyond - Sign up to our daily newsletter here.

Sign up to read this article
Read news from 100’s of titles, curated specifically for you.
Already a member? Sign in here
Related Stories
Top stories on inkl right now
One subscription that gives you access to news from hundreds of sites
Already a member? Sign in here
Our Picks
Fourteen days free
Download the app
One app. One membership.
100+ trusted global sources.