'I'm a driving instructor - avoid one mistake to pass test first time'

A seasoned driving instructor with more than a decade of experience has spilled the beans on how to ace your driving test at the first attempt, pinpointing the one blunder learners keep making.

Haydn Balch, an independent driving instructor who boasts more than 200 successful students, has lifted the lid on the most crucial error to dodge if you're gunning for a first-time pass and shared his top tips for preparation, along with some savvy advice from his years in the driver's seat.

The vital mistake learners commit during their driving tests

Teaming up with , Haydn emphasised that vigilance in checking your blind spots is key to nailing your test on the first go. Neglecting your blind spots could see you back in the queue for another shot at the test three months later.

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Ignore the backseat drivers in your life

Haydn warns against mimicking the driving habits of friends or family, which is a trap many newbies fall into. He advised: "Don't copy anybody. You learn your own style of driving in time and with patience."

The golden rule to remember

Forgetting your provisional licence is a surefire way to flunk immediately, as the examiner will cut your test short then and there. Haydn also recommends getting a good night's sleep, eating breakfast, and ensuring your eyesight is up to scratch before booking your driving test.

Who usually passes their test on the first try?

Haydn suggested that those who pass their driving test on the first attempt tend to have a relaxed mindset, unencumbered by financial or work pressures. To help learners achieve this, Carmoola to identify the locations with the highest and lowest first-time pass rates in England, , and Wales.

The best and worst test locations for first-time pass rates (In England, Scotland and Wales)
Country	Test Centre	Pass Rate
Scotland	Banbecula Island	92.6%
Elgin	40.3%
England	Kendal	69.7%
Swindon LGV	16%
Wales	Pembroke Dock	64.1%
Bala	46.1%
Source: DVLA

Aidan Rushby, founder and CEO of , said: “Learning to drive is the first, and sometimes most nerve-wracking, step in a lifetime of driving. Given the current wait times for driving tests in the UK, we partnered with a driving instructor to offer some advice to test takers hoping to get their licence the first time around.

“Understanding some common mistakes can be helpful when getting in the driver's seat. From remembering to check your blind spots to eating a good breakfast on the day of your test, preparation is important. Being eager to get behind the wheel is understandable but remember, you have a long road ahead of you."