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Common Mistakes

Can You Fail a Driving Test Before You Start?

Yes — and it happens more often than you'd think. Here are the 5 things that end your test before it begins.

Failing the eyesight test

You must read a number plate from 20 metres (about 5 car lengths). If you can't, the test is over immediately. Wear your glasses or contacts if you need them.

Wrong or missing documents

No valid provisional licence = no test. The photocard must not be expired. If you have the old paper licence, bring both parts.

Your car isn't roadworthy

The examiner will check basics: tyres, lights, mirrors, seatbelts. Bald tyres, broken lights, or missing mirrors = test cancelled.

No L-plates displayed

If using your own car, you must have L-plates (D-plates in Wales) visible front and rear. Magnetic ones can fall off — check before you go in.

Arriving too late

If you're not there when called, your test is forfeited and you lose your fee. Aim for 10 minutes early.

Don't waste your test slot

If you're not ready, swap your date with someone who is — and get a better date later.