Reasons for road test rejection
Most applicants believe that their driving performance is the only criterion the examiner uses to grade their road test. However, the vehicle may be the cause of failure. Some license applicants may not have the opportunity to take an initial road test because an examiner considers the vehicle unsuitable or unsafe for the test.
Here are some of the more common reasons the MVC rejects road test vehicles:
- Improper, expired or no inspection sticker
- Lack of examiner access to foot brake or parking brake
- Any defect or condition that affects the safe operation of the test vehicle, such as but not limited to:
- Poor brakes (pedal must not fade or go to the floorboard)
- Parking brake doesn’t work
- Unsafe tires (smooth, cut, badly worn)
- Vehicle interior is not in reasonably clean condition
- Vehicle failed inspection, and motorist does not bring the Vehicle Inspection Report issued by the inspection station to road test area
- Vehicle not equipped with radial tires or snow tires or chains when road is snow covered
- Fast engine idle (cannot judge speed control)
- Missing seat belts (seat belts are required on all vehicles manufactured after July 1, 1966)
Additional Items for motorcycle and moped tests only:
- Lack of equipment required by state regulations
- No helmet
- Unapproved goggles or face shield
- No bell or horn (but not a siren or whistle) that can be heard 100 feet away
See motorcycle or moped manuals for more specific information.
