Based on NSW driving test reports and advice from local driving schools, the most common mistakes fall into two categories: immediate failures (Critical Driving Errors) and errors that can accumulate to cause failure.
The table below categorizes common errors by their severity and consequences.
| Mistake Category |
Specific Examples |
Why It's a Problem / Consequence |
|
🚨 Immediate Fail (Critical Errors)
|
Exceeding the speed limit or driving too fast for conditions. |
A single illegal/dangerous action is an automatic fail, regardless of other performance. |
| |
Failing to stop completely at a Stop sign or red light. |
Shows a lack of compliance with fundamental road rules. |
| |
Failing to give way correctly at intersections, roundabouts, or to pedestrians. |
Creates a direct and unpredictable hazard for other road users. |
| |
Inadequate observation, especially not checking blind spots before changing lanes, merging, or turning. |
This is the #1 most frequent reason for failing and is a critical safety error. |
| |
Mounting or hitting the kerb during manoeuvres like parallel parking or three-point turns. |
Considered a loss of vehicle control and a critical error. |
|
⚠️ Accumulated or Repeated Errors
|
Incorrect use of indicators (not using, using too late/early, or forgetting to cancel). |
While one-off may be minor, repeated errors (e.g., 3+ times) lead to failure. |
| |
Poor lane discipline (drifting, incorrect positioning for turns, or using the wrong lane). |
Suggests poor vehicle control and can confuse other drivers. |
| |
Not obeying road signs or markings (e.g., lane arrows, stop lines). |
Failing to respond to clear instructions is a major fault in risk assessment. |
| |
Driving too slowly (well below the limit without good reason). |
Can disrupt traffic flow and is considered unsafe, potentially an immediate fail in some contexts. |
| |
Poor low-speed control during manoeuvres, leading to stalling (manual) or jerky movements. |
Shows a lack of skill in vehicle handling, and repeated stalling can be a critical error. |
📝 How the NSW Test is Scored
📊 Understanding the Scoring System
Understanding the scoring system helps clarify why these mistakes matter:
- • You must score at least 90% to pass.
- • One Critical Driving Error (CDE) is an immediate fail, even if your overall score was high. The mistakes in the "Immediate Fail" column above typically fall into this category.
- • You can fail by accumulating too many Non-Critical Driving Errors (NCDE), which bring your score below 90%.
- • Making three or more of the same minor error (e.g., forgetting to check a mirror) can also result in failure.
✅ Key Tips for Success
Here are some actionable strategies to help you avoid these common pitfalls:
- ✓ Make Observation Obvious: Perform exaggerated head checks for your blind spots. Don't just move your eyes; turn your head so the testing officer can see you are checking.
- ✓ Master "Stop" vs. "Give Way": At a Stop sign, your wheels must come to a complete stop. At a Give Way sign, you must slow down and be prepared to stop.
- ✓ Practice in Test Conditions: Familiarize yourself with common test routes in your area. Practice driving in different conditions (rain, busy traffic) to build confidence.
- ✓ Manage Your Nerves: It's normal to feel anxious. Take deep breaths, and if you're unsure of an instruction from the testing officer, it's okay to politely ask them to repeat it.
- ✓ Ensure Your Car is Ready: Before the test, check that all lights, indicators, and seatbelts work, and that your car is registered. An unsuitable vehicle can result in an immediate termination of the test.