Avoid an Automatic Fail: Common Mistakes on the Wyoming Driving Test

You've studied the manual, passed the written test, and practiced for hours. Now, the final step to earning your Wyoming driver's license is the road test. While it's normal to be nervous, the key to success is not just knowing what to do, but also knowing what not to do.

Many applicants who are otherwise good drivers fail their road test because of a single, critical error. These "automatic fails" are mistakes so significant that the WYDOT examiner will end the test immediately because they represent a clear danger to you, the examiner, and the public. By understanding these common pitfalls, you can be extra mindful during your test and dramatically increase your chances of passing.

What Constitutes an Automatic Failure?

An automatic failure isn't a small mistake like turning a little too wide or being hesitant. It's a clear violation of a traffic law or a demonstration of a dangerous lack of vehicle control. The examiner's primary job is to ensure you are a safe driver, and these actions prove you are not yet ready for that responsibility.

The Most Common Critical Errors to Avoid

1. Failure to Yield the Right-of-Way

This is one of the most frequent reasons for an immediate fail. Examiners need to see that you can make safe and lawful decisions in traffic.

At Intersections: Pulling out in front of a vehicle that has the right-of-way, causing them to brake or swerve, is a guaranteed fail. This applies to stop signs, yield signs, and uncontrolled intersections.
To Pedestrians: You must always yield to pedestrians in crosswalks. Failing to do so is a major safety violation.
To Emergency Vehicles: If a police car, ambulance, or fire truck is approaching with sirens and lights on, you must pull to the right and stop. Not doing so is a serious mistake.

2. Disregarding Traffic Signs or Signals

This is a fundamental error that shows you are not paying attention or do not know the rules.

Running a Stop Sign: This doesn't just mean driving straight through it. A "rolling stop," where your wheels never fully cease their rotation, is considered running the sign and will result in a failure. You must come to a complete stop behind the line.
Running a Red Light: This is an obvious and extremely dangerous violation.
Ignoring Other Signs: This includes missing a "No Turn on Red," going the wrong way on a one-way street, or ignoring a "Do Not Enter" sign.

3. Poor Observation and Lack of Awareness

Safe driving is 360-degree driving. The examiner will be watching to see if you are actively aware of your surroundings.

Failure to Check Blind Spots: Before every lane change, merge, or turn, you must look over your shoulder to check your blind spot. Relying only on your mirrors is not enough and is a major red flag for examiners.
Not Scanning: You should constantly be moving your head and eyes, checking your mirrors, looking down the road, and monitoring for potential hazards. Staring straight ahead ("tunnel vision") is a dangerous habit.

4. Unsafe Speed (Too Fast or Too Slow)

Maintaining a speed that is appropriate for the conditions is a critical skill.

Exceeding the Speed Limit: This is a clear violation and an easy way to fail. Pay close attention to posted signs, especially in school and construction zones.
Driving Excessively Slow: While caution is good, driving 10-15 mph below the speed limit for no apparent reason can impede traffic and be dangerous. You are expected to drive at or near the speed limit when it is safe to do so.

5. Lack of Vehicle Control

The examiner needs to feel safe in the car with you. Any action that suggests you don't have control of the vehicle is a problem.

Swerving or Weaving: You must be able to keep the car centered in your lane.
Hitting a Curb: Striking the curb with force during a turn or parking maneuver, especially parallel parking, can be grounds for failure.
Jerky Movements: Abrupt acceleration or braking shows a lack of smoothness and control.

6. Causing an Accident or Near-Accident

This is the most serious category. If your actions directly cause a collision, even a minor one, the test is over. This also applies if another driver has to take evasive action to avoid hitting you.

7. Examiner Intervention

If the examiner has to verbally command you to do something (e.g., "STOP!") or physically intervene by grabbing the steering wheel to prevent an accident, this is an automatic fail. It's a clear sign that you were not aware of or able to handle a dangerous situation.

How to Prepare for a Successful Test

Practice in a Variety of Situations: Drive in residential areas, on busier streets, and practice your parking maneuvers repeatedly.
Do a Mock Test: Have an experienced, calm driver ride with you and give you feedback as if they were an examiner.
Get a Good Night's Sleep: Arrive at your test rested and alert.
Stay Calm: Take a deep breath before you start. Listen carefully to the examiner's instructions and focus on driving safely, just as you've practiced.

By being mindful of these critical errors, you can showcase your true driving skills and prove you're ready for a Wyoming driver's license.