Our free email updates are the best way to get headlines direct to your inbox Our free email updates are the best way to get headlines direct to your inbox A driving instructor with more than 10 years of experience has explained exactly how to pass your driving test on the first try - revealing the one mistake drivers make during their tests. Haydn Balch, an independent driving instructor who has passed more than 200 students in his decade-long career, has revealed the most critical mistake to avoid if you are aiming to pass your test the first time and how best to prepare, along with some insider insights from behind the wheel. Vital mistake drivers make on their driving tests Haydn, partnering with Carmoola, said the one thing that was crucial to passing your first time was to check your blind spots. Failing to check your blind spots is the quickest way to find yourself booking another test for three months down the line. Don’t listen to your parents or peers One of the most common mistakes new learners make is trying to copy the way peers or family drive. Hadyn said: “Don't copy anybody. You learn your own style of driving in time and with patience.” The one thing to remember Don't forget your provisional licence, this will ensure you fail on the spot, as the instructor will terminate your test. You should also get plenty of sleep and have breakfast most importantly. You should also make sure you have had a recent eye test before you schedule your driving test. Who tends to pass their test first time? According to Haydn, the qualities and traits of people who pass their driving test on the first attempt include a lack of dependency on passing for financial, work, or other pressures, allowing them to approach the test with a relaxed mindset. (Image: Haydn Balch/Carmoola) Where do you stand the greatest chance of passing your driving test? To further aid first-time drivers, Carmoola requested the pass rates from the DVLA in England, Scotland and Wales to let learners know where they stand the best chances at passing and which locations to avoid. 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 Carmoola, 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."