Learner drivers were most likely to fail the test for poor observation at junctions (65,988 dangerous and 296,341 serious faults recorded) or bad use of mirrors (32,827 dangerous and 172,945 serious faults).
Figures released in response to a freedom of information request, also show that nervous or unprepared learner drivers committed more than a million dangerous or serious faults during car practical driving tests.
DSA figures show 1,605,599 practical driving tests were taken in England, Wales and Scotland in 2010-11, of which 744,044 were passed, a success rate of 46.3%.
Autoglass managing director Matthew Mycock said: "Driving tests can be stressful occasions but these figures really are quite alarming. They beg the very real question of how many candidates are being entered before they are fully prepared.
"Of course people are going to make mistakes during the course of a test. But it is worrying that so many dangerous or serious errors are happening, not only from the point of view of candidates and examiners but also other road users and pedestrians."
Source: Autoglass
Driving test candidates in Southend-on-Sea are set to benefit from a better local service as... read more
Many drivers will take to the roads over the Easter break, but could they and... read more
