How to Pass the DMV Test on the First Try: Avoid These Common Mistakes
Did you know that over 50% of first-time test-takers fail the DMV driving test? The most common reasons include rolling stops, not checking blind spots, misunderstanding right-of-way rules, and failing key maneuvers like parallel parking for the DMV road test.
A major avoidable mistake happens before the test even starts—vehicle disqualification due to mechanical issues, missing documentation, or a non-DMV-compliant test car. Many test-takers fail simply because their vehicle doesn’t meet DMV road test requirements.
Even if you’ve been practicing with a driving school or preparing for your DMV practice test, using a DMV-approved rental car eliminates this risk. Our vehicles meet all DMV standards, ensuring you can focus on passing your DMV driving test with confidence.
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Driving Mistakes to Avoid During Your DMV Driving Test
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Failure to Use Turn Signals
Neglecting to use turn signals or activating them too late can confuse other drivers and result in points deducted from your DMV driving test score.
How to Avoid It: Signal at least 100 feet before turning or changing lanes to clearly communicate your intentions to others on the road.
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Right-of-Way Violations
Misunderstanding right-of-way rules at intersections, pedestrian crossings, or during left turns is a common reason for failing the DMV road test.
How to Avoid It: Yield to pedestrians in crosswalks, give the right-of-way to vehicles that arrive first at four-way stops, and always yield to oncoming traffic when making left turns.
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Hesitation or Over-Cautious Driving
Excessive hesitation at intersections or slow decision-making can appear as a lack of confidence and may lead to failure.
How to Avoid It: Drive confidently, make clear decisions, and maintain the flow of traffic while staying in full control of the vehicle
Common Mistakes Test-Takers Make
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Rolling Stops
One of the most frequent causes of failure is not coming to a complete stop at stop signs or red lights. Examiners expect drivers to fully stop before proceeding.
How to Avoid It: Always come to a full stop, look for oncoming traffic and pedestrians, and only proceed when it’s safe. -
Not Checking Blind Spots
Relying solely on mirrors when changing lanes can lead to missed vehicles in your blind spots, which is a critical error during the DMV driving test.
How to Avoid It: Perform a quick shoulder check before changing lanes, merging, or turning to ensure the area is clear.
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Speeding or Driving Too Slowly
Exceeding the speed limit, even by a small margin, can result in automatic failure. Driving too slowly can also be considered unsafe and disruptive to traffic flow.
How to Avoid It: Stay within five miles per hour of the posted speed limit, adjusting as necessary for road and traffic conditions.