Birmingham's Garretts Green Driving Test Centre has been identified as the location with the highest number of faults recorded on driving tests across Great Britain, with another Birmingham centre, Kingstanding, also ranking in the top five, according to DVSA data obtained by Evans Halshaw.
Garretts Green leads with over 209,000 faults
The DVSA data, covering January 2024 to March 2025, shows that Birmingham's Garretts Green Centre recorded 209,523 faults on driving tests, more than 50,000 higher than the second-placed centre, London's Goodmayes Centre, which had 158,353 faults. Birmingham's Kingstanding Centre ranked third with 135,036 faults, followed by London's Morden Centre (134,838 faults) and Liverpool's Norris Green Centre (133,459 faults).
Junction observation is the most common fault
Poor observation at junctions was the leading cause of faults, with over 268,000 serious or dangerous faults linked to junction observation errors out of nearly 15 million total faults recorded during practical driving tests in the period. Other common faults include failing to check mirrors when changing direction (204,529 faults), moving off safely (119,288 faults), turning right at junctions (112,177 faults), and response to traffic lights (108,671 faults).
An Evans Halshaw spokesperson said: “Many learners understandably focus on the basics of controlling the car during their driving test. However, our data analysis shows that passing your exam is just as much about awareness and decision-making. Junctions, for example, are one of the most demanding parts of everyday driving. They require you to read the road, anticipate other drivers, and make safe decisions in real time. It’s where even small lapses in concentration can quickly turn into serious faults, so you should put in plenty of practice around this area.”
Dangerous faults mirror similar patterns
Dangerous faults, the most severe mistakes, showed junction observation issues and mirror checks when changing direction as the top two errors. Other high-risk mistakes include poor steering control, misjudging crossings, and failing to account for obstructions, highlighting ongoing issues with hazard perception and forward planning among learner drivers.
Preparation issues before driving begins
The data also revealed that 889 serious faults were recorded during eyesight-related checks at the start of tests, which can lead to immediate termination if not met. Additionally, more than 350,000 total faults, including over 11,000 serious or dangerous faults, were recorded during vehicle checks. The spokesperson added: “It’s also worth remembering that your driving test actually starts before you even begin driving. Simple checks like eyesight requirements are there for a reason, and being unprepared can mean your test ends before it’s even properly begun.”
Centres with the most fault-free drivers
Some test centres recorded high numbers of zero-fault tests. Ipswich led with 1,139 fault-free tests, followed by Sidcup in London (847), Norwich Peachman Way (752), Lee On The Solent (734), and Worthing (724).
