DRIVING tests can be stressful but try not to panic and try to avoid making the 10 most common mistakes (according to the AA) that often lead to failure.

OBSERVATIONS AT JUNCTIONS

The top offender is poor observational skills at a junction - whether it's a major fault or an easily avoidable minor one which tallies up.

You must be able to prove that you can pull out safely into a new road when leaving a junction; failing to notice any of the hazards around could put you and others in danger.

USE OF MIRRORS

Not using mirrors properly is a common mistake. Do not use them to check on anything other than the road when driving. The rear-view mirror should be positioned so you can see the vehicles behind you, not your own reflection.

Mirrors should be used:

  • Before any major manoeuvre e.g. changing direction, signalling, moving off from a stationary position.
  • Before a change of speed.
  • Continuously as you drive to make sure you're fully aware of the space around you. This includes using both your rear view and door mirrors.

STEERING

Proving you have adequate control of the car could help you steer clear of picking up one of the major driving test faults. Make sure you keep a steady course and follow the contour of the curb.

TURNING RIGHT

A lot of learner drivers struggle to turn right out of a junction. You should remember to position your car so that it doesn’t cut the corner when making the turn.

MOVING OFF

One of the easiest ways to fail your driving test is forgetting to do a check of your blind spots before you move off from a stationary position such as a pedestrian crossing or roundabout

This is one of the first things you’ll be marked on during your test.

POSITIONING

Remember to position your car correctly, making sure you stay within markings and avoid straddling lanes. This includes keeping the right stopping distance from the car in front.

CONTROL WHEN MOVING OFF

Lacking this could lead to repeated stalling and a failed driving test. Make sure the handbrake is off when you move and that you do not roll backwards.

RESPONSE TO TRAFFIC LIGHTS

Failing to stop at a red light is always going to be considered a very serious driving test fault, but you could also get caught out by waiting for too long at a green light.

Other things to make sure you avoid are stopping beyond an advanced stop line or blocking off other road exits.

REVERSE PARKING

During your driving test, you’ll be asked to perform one of three reverse parking manoeuvres.

Losing control while reverse or parallel parking or having to re-position to correct a misjudgement could lead to faults.

SIGNALS

Failing to properly signal your intentions – indicating which way you’re going, checking you're aware of the space around the car before indicating and turning – is a potential danger to you and others out on the road.

Remember MSM – mirror, signal, manoeuvre.

Keep all these tips in mind on your big day and you should be on the road in no time.