How Many Driving Test Mistakes Are You Allowed?
How driving, serious and dangerous faults work on the UK practical test, and what that means for passing.
You can pass the car driving test with up to 15 driving faults, as long as you get no serious or dangerous faults.
Official rule: See GOV.UK: driving test results for the current rules.
The three types of fault
| Fault type | What it means | Effect |
|---|---|---|
| Driving fault (minor) | Not potentially dangerous, but if repeated could become serious | Up to 15 allowed |
| Serious fault | Something potentially dangerous | Fail |
| Dangerous fault | Involves actual danger to you, the examiner, the public or property | Fail |
Can repeated minors become a serious?
Yes. Repeating the same minor fault can show a pattern that the examiner may record as a serious fault. So it's worth tackling any habit your instructor keeps pointing out.
What examiners are looking for
Examiners assess whether you drive safely and independently to the required standard. Small imperfections such as a slightly lumpy gear change are very different from missing a mirror check before changing direction.
Reducing your fault count
- Make observations deliberate, especially at junctions.
- Check mirrors before signalling, changing speed or changing direction.
- Keep to speed limits and adjust speed for conditions.
- Take a mock test with your instructor to see where faults tend to appear.
Related: common driving test faults · what to expect on your driving test · driving test centres
This guide gives general advice. Always check the latest GOV.UK/DVSA guidance for current rules and requirements.
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