Overview
This session outlines seven common mistakes that lead to automatic failure on the driving test, with practical explanations and advice on how to avoid them.
Automatic Failures on the Driving Test
- Failing to stop and check the sidewalk when exiting the DMV or any driveway results in an immediate fail.
- Entering an uncontrolled intersection without creeping up for better visibility can lead to an automatic fail.
- Not yielding to pedestrians, bicycles, or cars at intersections is a major test failure, regardless of right-of-way.
- Failing to check blind spots before making any right or left lane change is considered a dangerous maneuver and causes a fail.
- Bumping the curb when parking indicates lack of control and results in failure.
- Completing a lane change without ensuring enough distance behind and in front of the vehicle being passed is a critical error.
- Entering the wrong lane during a turn, such as turning into the bus or bicycle lane, is a test failure; always turn into the correct lane.
Recommendations / Advice
- Always stop and check for pedestrians when leaving a driveway or parking lot.
- At uncontrolled intersections, stop at the limit line, then creep forward for a clear view before proceeding.
- Yield to all pedestrians and cyclists, even if they do not have the legal right-of-way.
- Perform mirror and blind spot checks before every lane change or turn.
- Practice parking without touching the curb to demonstrate proper vehicle control.
- Maintain safe distances when changing lanes and ensure you have adequate space.
- Turn into the correct lane after making right or left turns, avoiding restricted lanes like bus or bike lanes.
Questions / Follow-Ups
- Practice and self-evaluate performance on these seven errors before scheduling the driving test.
- Seek clarification from instructors on any of these maneuvers if uncertain.