(Updated 2025 – FQ Driving Academy)
Everyone wonders how many mistakes they can make on test day and still pass.
The good news? You don’t need a perfect drive to pass your UK driving test.
You can make up to 15 driving faults (also called minors) and still pass – but even one serious or dangerous fault means an automatic fail.
This guide explains how the DVSA marking system works, what counts as a minor, and how to keep your score low on test day.
Understanding the DVSA Marking System
The examiner records your performance digitally using three types of faults:
- Driving Fault (Minor): Small, low-risk mistake (like a slightly late signal or rough gear change). You can have up to 15 and still pass.
- Serious Fault: A significant mistake that could become dangerous if repeated (e.g. poor observation at a junction). One serious fault = fail.
- Dangerous Fault: An error that causes immediate danger or requires examiner intervention. One dangerous fault = fail.
Examiners don’t expect perfection – they want to see safety, control and awareness.
How Many Minors Can You Get?
You’re allowed a maximum of 15 minor faults. If you make 16 or more, you fail automatically.
However, repeating the same fault several times can upgrade it to a serious fault.
Example:
- Two clutch-control errors → still minor.
- Five clutch-control errors → may count as a serious control issue.
Instructor tip:
“It’s not about perfection – it’s about safety. Repeated faults show you haven’t learned to self-correct, which is what examiners look for.”
What Counts as a Minor Fault?
Usually considered minor if corrected safely:
- Stalling once (and recovering calmly)
- Slightly clipping the kerb during a manoeuvre
- Missing a gear change
- Brief hesitation at a junction
- Forgetting a mirror check once when it doesn’t affect others
Becomes serious or dangerous when:
- You pull out and make another driver brake
- You fail to check mirrors before changing lanes
- You mount the pavement
- You ignore a traffic sign or a red light
- You lose full control of the vehicle
How Examiners Judge Your Driving
Examiners look at four key areas:
- Control – smooth use of clutch, accelerator, steering
- Observation – mirror checks and general awareness
- Judgement – spacing, speed and timing
- Response to Signs and Markings – obeying limits and directions
They also watch how you recover from mistakes. A calm correction shows you’re in control – panic or unsafe reactions make it worse.
Tips to Keep Your Fault Count Low
- Use the MSM routine: Mirror, Signal, Manoeuvre every time.
- Look ahead: Spot hazards early and plan your moves.
- Control your speed: Stay steady and legal.
- Stay calm after mistakes: One error doesn’t end your test.
- Practise manoeuvres: Reversing, parking, junction work.
- Take mock tests: Simulate real-test pressure.
Instructor insight:
“Examiners notice recovery. A learner who calmly fixes a small mistake looks safer than one who panics.”
What Happens if You Fail?
You’ll fail if you get:
- One or more serious or dangerous faults, or
- 16 or more minor faults.
You’ll receive a driving test report showing all faults and where they happened. Review it with your instructor before re-booking.
You can book another test after 10 working days via GOV.UK.
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Frequently Asked Questions
How many minors can you get and still pass?
Up to 15 driving faults. Sixteen or more is a fail.
What if I get the same minor several times?
If repeated, it can be recorded as a serious fault.
Can I still pass if I stall?
Yes – if you recover quickly and safely without affecting others.
How strict are examiners about mirror checks?
They expect consistency. Missing one occasionally is fine; missing when it affects safety is serious.
How many people pass the first time?
Roughly 47% of learners in the UK (DVSA 2024 data).
Final Thoughts
The driving test isn’t about being flawless – it’s about being safe, calm and consistent.
You can make small mistakes and still pass if you stay aware and in control.
For more help, read:
- Driving Test Faults Explained
- Top Reasons Learners Fail (And How to Avoid Them)
- What Happens on Test Day
Source: Based on DVSA test marking guidance, with instructor insight from FQ Driving Academy. Official info: GOV.UK – Driving Test: What Happens
