DMV Drive Test Part 3 - Automatic Fails/Critical Driving Error

DMV Drive Test Part 3 is the 3rd of 3 videos that we created to help new drivers understand what will be expected from them when arriving at the DMV for their driving test. Our videos will cover how to check in at the DMV for the driving test, how the DMV examiner will grade the driving test, and what your automatic fails on the driving test will be (Critical Driving Errors).

California DMV

DMV Grading Sheet PDF

DMV Grading Criteria

DMV Driver Handbooks

National Highway Traffic Safety Administration

Elite Driving School

[y.k.]

I just passed my driver's test today. This video was a great resource. Thank you for helping me pass my test.

[bbryan]

I passed today and was super stressed about it, thanks for your help!

[alexandrosmartinez]

Passed after four attempts almost two years ago.

Test 1 (Hawthorne, March 2020)- Forgot to check my mirrors and look over my shoulders before merging.
Test 2 (Hawthorne, May 2021)- Racked up a lot of points and was a little over (17 points was a little over, but not bad). No Critical Fails this time.
Test 3 (Torrance, November 2021)- Failed for examiner intervention as the examiner grabbed the wheel to avoid a collision. What happened was on the street I was turning left onto would narrow, something I was not aware about until now. When I tell people about the intersection of Carson and Denker, they thought I would turn right between McDonald's and Circus Donuts.
Test 4 (Hawthorne, June 2022)- Returned to the same DMV as tests 1 and 2. Passed with 10 minor mistakes.

[bobasosa]

Had I seen this video ahead of time I would have passed my test today! I did everything right except for one fatal mistake, I didn’t look over my shoulder when I pulled over to the curb. Counted it as a dangerous maneuver and boom failed off one mark. Crazy but I got it next time for sure.

[nicholassert]

I have my driving test in like three weeks, and these videos are making me feel less worried. Thank you so much!

[oscarrosaless]

I passed the driving test on the first try, thanks to your video. I’m proud of myself for getting through this journey. Best way to end the summer!

[lxonelystarxo]

I have my driving test today!! Super nervous.


Update: I passed on my first try!!!! :)

[jrg_sux]

I have my driving test in about 3 months and these videos just took a lot more stress away, thank you!

[muc]

Thanks for the video I needed a quick understanding before my last driving school with u on July 26th because the next day I’m doing the test

[vix.]

I have my drivers test today I watched yout videos as a review, hopefully I pass.

[juso]

Taking mine tomorrow, hopefully I pass

[WRX_CARLITOS]

I’m ready for the test but I’m worried about the speed limit because it feels like that might fail me

[dianaescamilla]

I sometimes see signs that allow you to turn right on a red light, there’s other signs that say to not turn on a right red light, what if it doesn’t have no sign can we still turn on a right red light? I tend to see people do it?

[Ayaki]

I just got permit. I concern about driving test. Too many automatic fails. but My friend is will helping me in the practice driving car.

[dhabaddezt__]

I been driving without a license for 2 years up and down to LA I’m a very safe driver when it comes to other people but I feel like entering a bike lane is going to break me LOL or hitting a curb bc of nerves

[knrb]

I had a friend who automatically failed for passing the light while it was still yellow but was supposed to stop. How do I know if I should stop on a yellow or keep going?

[itsollieyx]

My road test is in 5 days. I'm so nervous about the parallel parking. I've way gotten better at it but there's times where I mess up a few times

[pearlz]

I got failed because I didnt stop at the limit line for a unprotected green turn with heavy traffic ;-; ....i got in le middle of the intersection but I wasnt suppose to

[verxizy]

I need some tips because I failed my driving test and one of the issues was making left or right turns and didn’t traffic check.

[cam_]

hey man, im going to take my test on the 2nd, whats the right way to turn my vehicle? i turn pretty good, but i want to make sure what is correct from someone who is experienced.