Learning from the Most Bizarre Driving Test Fails

Failing a driving test is never fun, but sometimes the reasons are so bizarre that you can’t help but laugh afterward. While most driving test fails are caused by common mistakes—like poor mirror checks or stalling at a junction—others are truly one-of-a-kind.

Let’s take a look at some of the strangest driving test fails reported by learners and examiners, and the lessons you can take from them.

🚦 1. Forgetting to Start the Car

Yes, it sounds impossible—but it happens! Some learners are so nervous when they sit down for their test that they forget the very basics: starting the engine.

Lesson: Take a few deep breaths before the test begins. Familiarize yourself with the car’s controls and start-up sequence beforehand to avoid blanking out under pressure.

Tip: Ask your instructor to walk you through the pre-test routine during lessons so that starting the car becomes second nature.

🐕 2. Failing Due to an Animal Obstruction

One learner reported failing their test after a dog ran into the road. Instead of stopping, they attempted to carefully drive around the dog—something that’s strictly against driving test rules.

Lesson: Always stop safely for any animal or pedestrian in the road. Never attempt to navigate around them unless they’ve clearly moved out of the way.

Tip: If an animal appears in the road, slow down carefully, stop if necessary, and wait until the road is clear.

🏃 3. Driving Away Without the Examiner

Yes, you read that right! Some learners have been so focused on starting the test that they’ve driven off before the examiner even got into the car.

Lesson: Take your time at the beginning of the test. Listen carefully to the examiner’s instructions and make sure they’re seated, buckled in, and ready before you start.

Tip: Stay calm and composed when starting the test—rushing is more likely to lead to mistakes.

🚗 4. Failing Before Even Leaving the Test Centre

One learner stalled the car repeatedly while trying to exit the test centre, causing them to fail within the first two minutes. Another clipped a curb while turning out of the parking lot.

Lesson: The test starts the moment you turn on the engine—so treat every part of the test with care, even leaving the parking lot.

Tip: Take your time. Get comfortable in the driver’s seat before you start, and focus on smooth, controlled movements.

🍔 5. Stopping for a Snack Mid-Test

A learner reportedly pulled into a fast-food drive-thru during their driving test, saying they “felt a bit peckish.” While the examiner saw the funny side, it was an instant fail.

Lesson: Stay focused on the test. If you’re hungry, make sure to eat beforehand so that you’re fully focused and energized during the exam.

Tip: Get a good night’s sleep and eat a balanced meal before the test to keep your energy levels up.

🔄 6. Going the Wrong Way on a Roundabout

A learner in the UK once drove onto a roundabout… going the wrong direction. This caused the examiner to intervene immediately and terminate the test.

Lesson: Understanding road signs and markings is critical. If you’re not sure about something, don’t guess—ask the examiner or take a moment to think it through.

Tip: Spend extra time practicing roundabouts and junctions during your lessons to build confidence.

🚥 7. Stopping at a Green Light

One nervous learner stopped at a green light and refused to move until the examiner reassured them it was okay to go. They were so focused on “being careful” that they ignored the basic rule of traffic lights.

Lesson: Trust your judgment and follow the rules of the road. If the light is green and the way is clear, proceed with confidence.

Tip: If you feel overwhelmed, take a deep breath, refocus, and carry on.

🌧️ 8. Forgetting to Turn on the Windshield Wipers in the Rain

A learner once drove almost the entire test in heavy rain without using the windshield wipers—because they were afraid to “touch the controls” mid-test.

Lesson: Confidence with car controls is key. You need to know how to adjust settings like wipers, headlights, and demisters while driving.

Tip: Familiarize yourself with all the car’s controls before the test and practice using them under different conditions.

🚑 9. Not Giving Way to Emergency Vehicles

One learner failed after hearing an ambulance siren but freezing instead of moving to the side of the road to allow it to pass.

Lesson: Knowing how to respond to emergency vehicles is essential. Stay calm, signal your intention, and pull over to the side safely when possible.

Tip: During lessons, ask your instructor to simulate scenarios involving emergency vehicles so you know how to respond confidently.

🏆 Final Thoughts

While some of these test fails are hilarious, they highlight the importance of preparation and staying calm under pressure.

✅ Takeaway tips:

• Get comfortable with the basics—starting the car, using controls, and responding to road signs.
• Stay calm and composed, even if things don’t go perfectly.
• Listen carefully to the examiner’s instructions.
• Don’t be afraid to ask for clarification if you’re unsure.

Remember—failing a driving test isn’t the end of the world. Every mistake is an opportunity to learn, improve, and come back stronger next time. Drive safe! 🚗