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After your practical test

Your Northern Ireland driving test report explained.

DVA examiners record assessment information digitally. Your report shows the areas where faults were recorded so you can understand the result and focus future practice.

What decides a pass or fail?

Driving faultsUp to 15

You can still pass with up to 15 driving faults if there is no serious or dangerous fault.

Too many driving faults16+

Sixteen or more driving faults results in failure.

Serious fault1 is enough

A single serious fault results in failure.

Dangerous fault1 is enough

A single dangerous fault results in failure and the examiner can stop the test if continuing is unsafe.

What do the numbered report headings mean?

The official car report guidance runs from eyesight and safety questions through control, observation, junctions, judgement and planning.

Open full fault library →
1.0
Eyesight TestThe practical test starts with the eyesight check. If you cannot meet the required standard, the road-driving part does not continue.
→1.2
Vehicle Safety QuestionsThe examiner asks vehicle-safety questions before or during the test. Incorrect answers can add a driving fault.
→2.0
Ancillary ControlsYou should be able to use safety-related controls without losing attention on the road.
→3.0
PrecautionsBasic preparation before moving protects you, passengers and other road users.
→4.0–4.7
ControlControl covers smooth, accurate use of the main vehicle controls throughout the drive.
→5.0–5.2
Move AwayMoving away safely combines observation, control and judgement of a suitable gap.
→6.0–6.2
Emergency StopThe emergency stop tests whether you can bring the vehicle to a controlled stop promptly when instructed.
→7.0–7.2
Reverse to the Left or RightReversing manoeuvres require very low speed, accurate steering and continuous observation.
→8.0–8.2
Turn in the RoadThe turn in the road remains relevant to the current Northern Ireland car test and combines control with all-round observation.
→9.0–9.2
Reverse ParkingReverse parking is assessed on control, accuracy, observation and consideration for other road users.
→10.0–10.3
Use of Mirrors / Rear ObservationMirror checks must give you information that changes or confirms your decision; simply moving your eyes toward a mirror is not enough.
→11.0–11.3
Appropriate SignalsSignals should be clear, correctly timed and useful to other road users without creating confusion.
→12.0–12.5
Response to Signs and SignalsYou need to recognise road signs, markings, traffic lights and lawful signals early enough to respond safely.
→13.0
Use of SpeedA legal speed can still be inappropriate. Your speed should match visibility, road conditions, hazards and the space available.
→14.0
Safe Distance Behind VehiclesA safe following gap gives you time to see, decide and stop if the vehicle ahead changes speed suddenly.
→15.0–15.2
Maintain ProgressSafe driving is not the same as excessively slow driving. You should make reasonable progress when conditions allow.
→16.0–16.5
Junctions Including RoundaboutsJunctions bring together approach speed, lane choice, positioning, observation and gap judgement.
→17.0–17.3
JudgementJudgement covers overtaking, meeting traffic and crossing the path of oncoming traffic.
→18.0–18.2
PositioningStable road position helps other road users predict you and preserves safe clearance from hazards.
→19.0
Clearance to Stationary Vehicles and ObstructionsParked vehicles and obstructions can hide doors, pedestrians, workers and vehicles about to move.
→20.0
Pedestrian CrossingsCrossings test whether you recognise vulnerable road users early and adjust speed before the situation becomes urgent.
→21.0
Position for Normal StopsWhen asked to pull up, the place and final position should be safe, legal and convenient.
→22.0
Awareness and PlanningAwareness and planning is the ability to see what may happen next and adjust before it becomes a problem.
→

Use the report instead of just retaking the test

Failed Test Improvement Plan

Select the exact categories shown on your report and turn them into a practice list.

Build plan →

Result Analyser

Check how the fault totals affect a practical-test result.

Analyse result →

Skills Readiness Checker

Rate the practical skills that still need work before another test.

Check readiness →
Reviewed against official Northern Ireland guidanceInformation checked 21 September 2026.
Official source ↗