Automatic Fail DMV Driving Test Checklist for California
During the California DMV Behind-the-Wheel Driving Test, certain mistakes result in an immediate failure, even if the rest of your driving is strong. Avoid these common automatic-fail errors to increase your chances of passing on the first attempt.
🚫 Automatic Fail Mistakes
1. Dangerous Driving or Loss of Control
- Causing an accident or near-collision
- Hitting another vehicle, pedestrian, bicyclist, or fixed object
- Mounting or jumping a curb
- Losing control of the vehicle at any time
2. Failure to Observe Right of Way
- Not yielding to pedestrians at crosswalks
- Failing to yield at stop signs or uncontrolled intersections
- Pulling out into traffic unsafely
3. Ignoring Traffic Signs or Signals
- Running a red light or stop sign
- Failing to stop before the limit line or crosswalk
- Disobeying traffic signals or examiner instructions
4. Speed Violations
- Driving too fast or too slow for conditions
- Exceeding posted speed limits
- Not slowing down in school zones or near pedestrians
5. Unsafe Lane Changes or Turns
- Changing lanes without checking mirrors and blind spots
- Cutting off another vehicle
- Making turns from the wrong lane
- Failing to signal for at least 100 feet before turning
6. Improper Use of Bike Lanes
- Driving in a bike lane when not permitted
- Failing to check for cyclists before merging
- Not yielding to bicyclists when required
7. Rolling Stops
- Not coming to a complete stop (wheels must fully stop)
- Failing to stop at uncontrolled intersections
8. Examiner Intervention
- Examiner has to grab the wheel or brake
- Examiner gives emergency verbal commands
9. Unsafe Parking Maneuvers
- Hitting the curb while parking
- Parking too far from or too close to the curb
- Failing to secure the vehicle (not using parking brake when required)
10. Failure to Follow Instructions
- Ignoring or misunderstanding examiner directions
- Performing a maneuver incorrectly after clarification
