Maridady Blog

Common Mistakes to Avoid During Driving Test

Whether you live in Nairobi, Mombasa, Kisumu, or Nakuru, driving tests can be super stressful.  Sweaty palms, shaky starts, and that one moment where you totally forget how to indicate a left turn, we’ve all been there. The truth is, most people don’t fail because they don’t know how to drive. They fail because of small, avoidable mistakes that happen due to nervousness and lack of practice. In this article, we’ll break down the most common mistakes that learners make during their driving test in Kenya and how you can avoid them like a pro.

Nervousness & Lack of Preparation

The moment you sit behind the wheel, it’s totally normal to feel nervous. Even the most confident person can suddenly feel like a beginner during the driving test. But don’t let the nerves take over. Many learners fail because they either didn’t practice enough or let their anxiety mess with their focus. If you only practiced twice and expect to ace the test, you might be in for a surprise.

Tip: Book enough lessons, especially on the actual test route if possible, and take a mock test with your instructor in a place like Embakasi or Westland’s — it helps a lot!

Poor Mirror & Blind Spot Checks

If there’s one thing examiners never miss, it’s whether you’re checking your mirrors and blind spots properly or not. Many learners fail simply because they forgot to look into mirrors. In areas where traffic can get busy, ignoring blind spots or failing to glance at your side mirrors before changing lanes can be dangerous. That’s why we advise you to make a habit into looking mirrors. Make it natural, and always glance over your shoulder before changing lanes or turning.

Incorrect Use of Indicators

This one’s more common than you’d think. You’re approaching a roundabout, slightly panicked and you forget to indicate. Or worse, you leave your signal on and confuse everyone around you. Indicators are how you “talk” to other road users. If you don’t use them right, the examiner sees it as unsafe and careless driving. Simple tip to avoid this mistake is to practice this everyday during your driving classes until it becomes second nature.

Bad Steering Control

Driving with one hand, oversteering, understeering, or not turning the wheel back smoothly after a corner these are small things that make a big difference during a driving test. Whether you’re on the wide roads of  Thika Road or the tighter streets of Lamu, proper steering technique shows control and confidence,  two things every examiner looks for.

Keep both hands on the wheel (usually at 9 and 3 position), steer steadily, and avoid jerky movements.

Rolling at Stop Signs or Traffic Lights

Nothing spells instant fail during your NTSA test like “rolling stops.” You come to a stop sign or red light, bring the car to a crawl, but never fully stop. A complete stop shows you respect the rules and keeps everyone safe. Examiners will watch your front wheels—if they’re still moving, that’s a no-go.

Tip: Treat every red light and stop sign like a full stop: brake firmly, hold for one-two seconds, then look both ways before moving off when it’s clear. Practice in different parts of town—CBD or the suburbs—so it becomes second nature.

Incomplete Observations at Junctions

At any intersection be it a busy roundabout like Globe roundabout or a T-junction in Eldoret your eyes are your best tool. Yet many learners fail because they only glance one way or forget to check over their shoulder. Carelessness in observation can lead to missed pedestrians, oncoming vehicles, or hidden motorbikes resulting in serious safety issues.

Tip: Make it a habit:

1. Stop 
2. Look Left
3. Look Right
4. Look Left again
5. Shoulder check.

Practice this sequence every time you approach a junction during lessons in Thika or Nyeri. Soon, those extra glances will be as natural as breathing.

Poor Parking & Reversing Skills

Parallel parking, bay parking, and reversing into a driveway—these are the classic nemeses of many driving test candidates. Whether you’re squeezing into a spot in Westland’s or backing into a home driveway in Karen, sloppy parking can cost you serious points.

Examiners look for smooth steering, correct mirror use, and confident control of speed. Jerky reverses, hitting the kerb, or failing to align within the bay lines are instant red flags.

Rough Gear Changes & Clutch Control (For Manual Drivers)

Driving a manual car takes practice and for many learners, it’s the biggest challenge. From stalling at junctions to grinding gears, rough gear changes can make even a decent drive feel out of control.

Examiners pay close attention to how smoothly you shift. If you're jerky with the clutch, miss gears, or roll backward on a hill, it’s a red flag.

Tip: Practice clutch control and gear changes regularly on real roads. A great way to improve is by getting your own learner-friendly ride.

Final Thoughts

Passing your NTSA test isn’t just about knowing the rules, it’s about staying calm, being aware, and drive with confidence. Whether you’re in Nairobi, Nakuru, Kisumu, Mombasa or Machakos, avoiding common mistakes like poor observations, missed indicators, or rough clutch work can be the difference between passing and rebooking. At our Driving School in Kenya, we prepare you not just to pass the test, but to become a safe, smart driver for life.  Book your lessons now with a certified instructor or browse used cars for sale in Kenya to start practicing in your own car! Contact and Join Maridady Driving School Today.