10 Common Mistakes to Avoid During Your Road Test

Taking your road test can be nerve-wracking, but knowing what mistakes to avoid can significantly improve your chances of passing. Many learners fail due to easily preventable errors. Understanding the road test mistakes to avoid will help you stay calm, focused, and prepared.

This guide covers the most common driving exam errors, practical driving test tips in Canada, and how to navigate the test smoothly. By learning from these mistakes, you’ll be on the right path to earning your driver’s license with confidence.

1. Rolling Stops

One of the biggest road test mistakes to avoid is not coming to a complete stop at stop signs and red lights. Examiners expect a full stop before proceeding.

How to Avoid It:

• Stop completely behind the stop line.
• Look left, right, and left again before proceeding.
• Count to three before moving forward to ensure a complete stop.

2. Not Checking Blind Spots

Failing to check blind spots is a common reason for failing the test. Examiners want to see that you are aware of your surroundings.

How to Avoid It:

• Do a shoulder check before changing lanes, merging, or turning.
• Always check your mirrors and blind spots before moving.

3. Improper Lane Changes

Switching lanes incorrectly can lead to an automatic failure. Many learners forget to signal, check mirrors, or change lanes too abruptly.

How to Avoid It:

• Follow the SMOG technique: Signal, Mirror check, Over-the-shoulder check, and Go when safe.
• Never cut off other vehicles; ensure there’s enough space before changing lanes.

4. Speeding or Driving Too Slowly

Driving too fast or too slow can cause you to lose points. Examiners look for steady, controlled speed.

How to Avoid It:

• Follow posted speed limits.
• Adjust speed based on road conditions but avoid going significantly under the limit.
• Keep a smooth and steady pace.

5. Poor Parking Skills

Struggling with parallel parking, reverse parking, or parking alignment can cost you crucial points.

How to Avoid It:

• Practice parking in different situations before the test.
• Use reference points to guide your movements.
• Take your time—don’t rush parking maneuvers.

6. Not Yielding to Pedestrians

Failing to give pedestrians the right of way is one of the most serious common driving exam errors. Examiners watch for how you handle crosswalks and intersections.

How to Avoid It:

• Always stop for pedestrians at crosswalks and unmarked crossings.
• Look for pedestrians approaching before proceeding.

7. Misjudging Right-of-Way

Many learners struggle with knowing when to yield or go at intersections. Incorrect right-of-way decisions can result in instant failure.

How to Avoid It:

• At a four-way stop, the first car to arrive goes first.
• If two cars arrive at the same time, the one on the right has the right-of-way.
• Always yield to emergency vehicles and buses re-entering traffic.

8. Hesitation at Intersections

Being too hesitant or taking too long to make a decision at intersections can disrupt traffic flow and cost points.

How to Avoid It:

• Stay alert and make smooth, confident decisions.
• Move when it is safe, without unnecessary delays.
• If unsure, wait rather than rush.

9. Failing to Use Turn Signals

Many students forget to use their turn signals, which is a simple but crucial part of the test.

How to Avoid It:

• Signal at least 100 feet before turning or changing lanes.
• Always use turn signals when pulling over, parking, or exiting a parking spot.

10. Letting Nerves Take Over

Nervousness can cause even well-prepared drivers to make mistakes. Controlling test anxiety is key to success.

How to Avoid It:

• Take deep breaths and stay calm before and during the test.
• Get plenty of practice to build confidence.
• Arrive early to reduce stress.

Minor vs. Major Mistakes

Mistake Type	Minor Error	Major Error (Possible Fail)
Rolling Stops	Slight hesitation before stopping fully	Failing to stop at a red light
Blind Spot Checks	Forgetting once but correcting later	Failing to check blind spots multiple times
Lane Changes	Late signaling	Cutting off another vehicle
Speed Control	Slightly over/under limit	Excessive speeding or driving too slow
Right-of-Way	Brief hesitation	Causing another vehicle to stop suddenly

Internal Resources

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Conclusion

Avoiding these road test mistakes can significantly increase your chances of passing. By practicing key skills, staying calm, and understanding common driving exam errors, you’ll be better prepared for test day.

Need expert guidance? Contact GrayJays Driving School today, and let us help you pass with confidence! Visit our Contact Us page to book a lesson.

FAQs

1. What is the most common reason for failing a road test?
Rolling stops, not checking blind spots, and improper lane changes are the top reasons for failure.

2. How can I stay calm during my road test?
Practice regularly, take deep breaths, and focus on one step at a time.

3. Should I arrive early for my test?
Yes, arriving at least 15-20 minutes early can help you settle in and reduce stress.

4. Can I retake the test if I fail?
Yes, but you may need to wait a few weeks before rescheduling, depending on your province.

5. What should I do if I make a mistake during the test?
Stay calm and keep driving—one mistake doesn’t always mean failure.
By preparing well and avoiding these mistakes, you’ll be on the road to success!