Appeal process for Failed Practical Driving Test

Hi

I failed the driving test last week. Per record, the examiner said I drove at 15km/h in a short 30km/h limit zoon as well as 45km/h after the curvy exit of highway (no sign of limit so by default should be 80km/h), both of which were too slow. So he mentioned that I was too "over-cautious" so failed me. The official comment he gave was "lack of dynamic". All the rest were fine.

However, I doubt about this minor "mistake" (really a mistake?) is valid, as the theoretical exam doesn't mention the lower limit of motor way exit or a 30km/h zoon. Is there a way to appeal?

Many thanks for your advice!

You can appeal, but you very likely stand no chance. Following all the rules/laws is only part of the exam, the general impression of your driving style is another. If he ruled that you drove too often too slow than your driving style needs improvement before they give you a pass.

Only if you can come up with very good arguments why your low speeds were justified you'd stand a change like lots of parked cars and playing kids in the 30 zone, and the corner after the exit not allowing higher speeds (in which case I would have expected a sign as this is what they normally do to prevent people going of the road. (hint: law does not forbid it, is not a proper reason)

My daughter and her husband to be took their motorcycle road tests at the same time.

She passed, he failed for driving too slowly, but passed when he retook the test a month later.

Both are Swiss, but my daughter's German is crap, and they took the test in AG, so any claims based on nationality or language are total BS.

So, redo the test, and don't screw it up this time!

Tom

No. Caution is good, but if the examiner feels you are not safe to drive, they will find something to fail you.

So it is actually possible to fail a test in AG?

30 zoom: children riding bicycle towards me

motor way exit: I slow down coz I know there is a sharp left bend + roundabout (approx. 200m away)

The exam lasted about 45-50min and the slowness counted less than 3 min. So I would say over 90% of my performance was satisfactory.

Anyway, Thanks all for your comments. I guess not much chance for appeal. I will have to retake the exam in 2-3 week.

Have a good evening!

It's not just about theoretical rules, but being able to drive at a speed consistent with the traffic and road conditions. Going at the speeds you mentioned could easily cause a nuisance, and quite possibly a danger, as other drivers will not be expecting it. Imagine lots of traffic coming off a motorway and encountering someone driving that much slower, which could then cause heavy braking and a knock-on effect back into the main carriageway. For example.

So slow down when you get to it then, not 200m before it.

Most fail the first or second time. After failing the 3 rd time they will send you to a state shrink who will test who brain

The third test is longer with a very experienced examiner, and designed to prevent nervousness spoiling your performance.

You've passe your driving test ???

Yes. First time. I gave the tester some LSD bon bon and he laughed his way through the whole thing!

If you drive "too slow" for the given traffic/road condition... the examiner may take it that you lack confidence and need more practice time.

You need to drive like the locals to pass the test and by not speeding you have no chance of tailgating the driver in front of you! Watch Audi drivers they are very professional at it...

Strange remarque

Nobody said he failed because he is not Swiss

Not yet, but they will!

Tom

Also try to get an hour lesson from driving school and ask them to warn you when you are driving "slow".... Retaking the exam is a good idea instead of appealing.

That wasn't my experience. It was just as long as any other test.

@OP, don't beat yourself up about it. For some driving comes naturally, others like myself, need more practice. Just keep at it and don't let the first failure get to your head. You'll get it next time.