Junction Observation Errors are the Top Reason Learner Drivers Fail Their Test, DVSA Data Reveals

Poor observation at junctions has been revealed as the leading reason learner drivers fail their driving test, according to new Freedom of Information data obtained by Evans Halshaw, one of the UK’s leading volume vehicle retailers.

Between January 2024 and March 2025, over 268,000 of the almost 15 million total faults recorded during practical driving tests were tied to serious or dangerous faults caused by junction observation errors.

The analysis also revealed that learner drivers commonly struggle to move off safely and maintain an appropriate speed while they are taking their driving test.

The Common Mistakes Causing Driving Test Failures

Serious and dangerous faults made up only around 15% of all recorded faults, but these are the types of mistakes that automatically result in a failed test.

Junction observation errors were by far the most common serious or dangerous fault recorded, followed by issues with mirror checks when changing direction and problems moving off safely.

The top five categories were:

Junctions – observation (268,195 faults)

Mirrors – change direction (204,529 faults)

Moving off safely (119,288 faults)

Junctions – turning right (112,177 faults)

Response to traffic lights (108,671 faults)

Errors linked to observation, awareness, and decision-making dominate the list, suggesting that situational awareness, rather than technical driving ability alone, is one of the biggest barriers to passing.

Dangerous faults – the most severe mistakes made during driving tests – showed a similar pattern, with junction observation issues and failing to check mirrors when changing direction again ranking as the top two faults.

Other common high-risk mistakes include poor steering control, misjudging crossings, and failing to account for obstructions, highlighting ongoing issues with hazard perception and forward planning among learner drivers.

Fundamental Driving Actions Common Among All Recorded Faults

Across all recorded faults, including minor driving errors, the most common issues were tied to fundamental driving actions.

The top five categories were:

Moving off safely (1,138,794 faults)  

Maintaining progress – speed (1,082,327 faults)  

Control – steering (973,543 faults)  

Maintaining progress – hesitation (967,397 faults)  

Junctions – observation (784,837 faults) 

Many of the most common faults were linked to hesitation, vehicle control and poor observation at critical moments of a journey, suggesting that confidence and awareness are key challenges for many learner drivers.

Although not specifically listed in the top five categories, learner drivers also appear to struggle with using their mirrors correctly (almost 1.6 million total faults across three categories) and carrying out parking procedures adequately (more than one million total faults across seven categories).

Learner Drivers Being Caught Out in the Opening Minutes of a Test

The data also revealed that some learner drivers are being caught out before they even begin driving.

A total of 889 serious faults were recorded between January 2024 and March 2025 during eyesight-related checks, which are assessed at the very start of the test and can result in immediate termination if not met.

There were also more than 350,000 total faults – including over 11,000 serious or dangerous faults – recorded during the vehicle checks stage of a test.

While these categories are far less common for faults than driving-related errors, the findings highlight that basic preparation and awareness of test requirements are issues for some learner drivers.

The Areas Producing the Most Fault-Free Drivers

Some test centres recorded significantly higher numbers of fault-free tests, where learner drivers completed their assessment without a single recorded mistake.

Ipswich recorded the highest number of zero-fault tests (1,139), followed by Sidcup in London (847), Norwich Peachman Way (752), Lee On The Solent (734), and Worthing (724).

An Evans Halshaw spokesperson commented: “Many learners understandably focus on the basics of controlling the car during their driving test. However, our data analysis shows that passing your exam is just as much about awareness and decision-making. 

“Junctions, for example, are one of the most demanding parts of everyday driving. They require you to read the road, anticipate other drivers, and make safe decisions in real time. It’s where even small lapses in concentration can quickly turn into serious faults, so you should put in plenty of practice around this area. 

“For anyone preparing for their test, building confidence in real-world scenarios – especially junctions, mirror checks, and reacting to traffic – can be the difference between passing or failing

“It’s also worth remembering that your driving test actually starts before you even begin driving. Simple checks like eyesight requirements are there for a reason, and being unprepared can mean your test ends before it’s even properly begun.”