The 10 mistakes (and quick fixes)
1) No head check before moving - Why you fail: You miss the blind spot. - Fix: Mirror → signal → head check → move. Count “1-2-3”.
2) Rolling through STOP - Why you fail: Wheels didn’t fully stop at the line. - Fix: Full stop. Count “one… two…”, then proceed when safe.
3) Speed not matching the limit - Why you fail: Too fast in 50/40 zones or too slow holding traffic. - Fix: Eyes up. Set speed early. Recheck signs after turns.
4) Late or short signalling - Why you fail: Indicator is too late or turned off early. - Fix: Signal at least 3 seconds before turns or lane changes.
5) Poor lane position - Why you fail: Drifting, sitting on the line, or wide turns. - Fix: Centre the lane. Look far ahead. Turn into the matching lane.
6) Missing school-zone changes - Why you fail: 40 km/h not obeyed during active times. - Fix: Scan for time boards. If unsure, assume 40 until confirmed.
7) Failure to give way at roundabouts - Why you fail: Not yielding to vehicles already on the roundabout. - Fix: Look right, then left. Enter only when a safe gap exists.
8) Not checking over shoulder when moving off - Why you fail: Pulling out from the kerb without a blind-spot check. - Fix: Mirror → signal → right head check → move.
9) Untidy reverse-parallel park - Why you fail: Too far from kerb or wheels over driveway. - Fix: 45° entry → full lock → straighten → finish within 50 cm of kerb.
10) Hesitation at green lights - Why you fail: Sitting too long or creeping after green. - Fix: Prepare early (gear, feet ready). At green: check, then go smoothly.
Pre-test car checks (60 seconds)
- Indicators, brake lights, horn, wipers
- Mirrors adjusted, seat set, seatbelts on
- Clear windscreen; no loose items rolling around