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Published on July 1st, 2026
•New data has uncovered that poor observation at junctions is the leading cause of failures among learner drivers during their driving tests. This information comes from a Freedom of Information request made by Evans Halshaw, a major car retailer in the UK. The findings highlight the importance of being aware of surroundings, especially at busy road junctions, which can be quite challenging for new drivers.
Significant Statistics
Between January 2024 and March 2025, over 268,000 serious or dangerous faults linked to junction observation errors were recorded, out of almost 15 million total faults noted during practical driving tests. This statistic showcases just how crucial it is for learner drivers to pay attention when approaching and navigating junctions.
The top five reasons learners failed their tests due to serious or dangerous faults are as follows:
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
These numbers indicate that many learner drivers are struggling not only with the technical aspects of driving but also with situational awareness. This awareness is critical for making safe decisions on the road.
Common Mistakes
While serious and dangerous faults make up about 15% of all recorded faults, they are the ones that lead to immediate failures. The most common mistakes include not observing properly at junctions and failing to check mirrors when changing direction. These errors point to a lack of awareness that can have serious consequences on the road.
Other frequent high-risk mistakes include:
Poor steering control
Misjudging crossings
Not accounting for obstructions
This pattern suggests that many learner drivers may need to work on their hazard perception and forward planning skills to improve their chances of passing the test.
Everyday Driving Actions
The data highlights that even minor faults can lead to significant issues during tests. Here are the most common faults recorded across all categories:
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
These statistics indicate that issues with hesitation, vehicle control, and poor observation are prevalent among learners. Confidence and awareness appear to be significant challenges for many, highlighting the need for thorough practice before taking the test.
Initial Test Challenges
Interestingly, some learners are facing issues even before they start driving. During the period from January 2024 to March 2025, 889 serious faults were recorded during eyesight checks, which are performed at the beginning of the test. If a candidate fails this check, their test can end before it even begins. Additionally, over 350,000 faults were logged during vehicle checks, including more than 11,000 serious or dangerous faults. This information suggests that being well-prepared for the test is just as important as driving skills.
Successful Test Centres
On a positive note, some driving test centres have recorded high numbers of fault-free tests, indicating that certain locations may provide better learning environments. The centres with the most zero-fault tests include:
Ipswich: 1,139 tests
Sidcup (London): 847 tests
Norwich Peachman Way: 752 tests
Lee On The Solent: 734 tests
Worthing: 724 tests
Expert Insights
An Evans Halshaw spokesperson commented on the findings:
“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.”
They emphasised that junctions are particularly demanding as they require drivers to read the road and anticipate the actions of others, making it essential for learners to practice in these scenarios.
For anyone preparing for their driving test, building confidence in real-world situations—especially regarding junctions, mirror checks, and reacting to traffic—is crucial. It's also important to remember that the driving test starts before the car is even in motion; being prepared for eyesight checks and vehicle inspections can make a significant difference.