When taking a driving test, it is crucial to be aware of the different types of faults that can occur and how they can affect your result. In the UK, there are three main types of faults: dangerous faults, serious faults, and driving faults. It’s essential to understand the difference between these types of faults so that you can take the necessary steps to avoid them and increase your chances of passing the test.

Dangerous Faults

Dangerous faults are the most serious type of faults and involve actual danger to you, the examiner, other road users, or property. Examples of dangerous faults include driving through a red light, driving on the wrong side of the road, and losing control of the vehicle. A single dangerous fault is enough to result in an immediate failure of the driving test.

Serious Faults

Serious faults are less serious than dangerous faults but still pose a potential threat to road safety. Examples of serious faults include driving too close to the vehicle in front, failing to give way at a junction, and failing to respond to traffic signals or road signs. While a single serious fault will not result in an immediate fail, it can contribute to an overall failure if other driving faults are also present.

Driving Faults

Driving faults are the least serious type of faults and do not pose a danger to road safety. Examples of driving faults include touching the kerb with one or two wheels when reversing, incorrect use of signals, and steering faults such as a lack of control or poor observation. While these faults are not dangerous, it’s important to avoid them as they can add up and result in failure if too many are made.

Pass Mark

To pass the driving test in the UK, you must make no more than 15 driving faults (sometimes called “minors”) and have no serious or dangerous faults (sometimes called “majors”). It’s important to aim for as few driving faults as possible and to avoid serious or dangerous faults altogether.

In conclusion, understanding the different types of faults that can occur during a driving test and their impact on your result is crucial. By focusing on driving safely and correctly, avoiding serious and dangerous faults, and aiming for as few driving faults as possible, you can increase your chances of passing the test and becoming a confident and competent driver. Good luck with your driving test, and remember to stay calm, focused, and aware of your actions on the road.