“What Happens If You Fail Your Illinois Driving Test?”
Failure is a part of life. Failing your Illinois driving test can feel like a huge setback, but it is not abnormal. Many drivers do not pass on their first try. Learning to drive safely and properly takes time; sometimes, nerves or small mistakes can get in the way. In this week’s blog, we will break down what happens if you fail the driving test.
1: You get immediate feedback: Once your road test is complete, your examiner will go over your results with you. They will let you know which parts you did well on and where you lost points. If you fail, they will explain what caused the failure. It may have been one of the automatic failures or a myriad of little ones. This feedback is super helpful for knowing exactly what to work on before your next attempt since they are the ones grading you and you might see them again.
2: Retest: In Illinois, if you fail your driving test, you must wait at least 7 days before you can try again. This gives you time to practice and improve the skills you struggled with. You get three chances to pass the driving exam within a year of your first attempt. So even if you fail again you have another chance. If you passed the written test the first time, you do not have to be tested on that again when you retest for the driving portion.
3: You do not lose your permit: Failing the road test does not mean you lose your permit. You can still practice with a licensed adult and work on the areas where you need improvement. Continuing to drive with supervision is one of the best ways to build confidence and experience before your next test. Your permit expires 24 months after the issued date if you are under the age of 18.
4: Review and Practice: Use your examiner’s feedback as a guide. Maybe you need to work on parallel parking, lane changes, or obeying traffic signs. Practicing with an instructor or trusted adult can help you sharpen those skills. Sometimes nerves or external circumstances can cause challenges so remain calm and show off the skills you know and are learning.
5: Stay positive and try again: Failing your test does not mean you are a bad driver. It just means you need to learn or practice more. Most people don’t get things in life right the first time. It is important to stay positive and continue working.
Failing your driving test can be disappointing, but it is not the end of the road. A driver’s license is a privilege, not a right. You must earn and show off your abilities for the government to trust you to drive on the roadways with others. Drivers Edge School of Driving is a leading driver education company in Northern Illinois. Our instructors are well trained and licensed by the Illinois Secretary of State and look forward to engaging with students so that they are well prepared to pass the Illinois driving test.