The pass rate for a standalone Category F tractor test was much better in 2021 at 88% of tests taken.
Prepare properly
Feeling nervous before a test is normal and the best way to make sure everything goes smoothly is to be properly prepared.
- Book early - During Covid-19 there was a lot of disruption to driving tests and many struggled to get an appointment. The situation is improving but best advice is to book a driving test slot in plenty of time once a learner tractor driver feels confident of passing.
- An effective way to take away some of the stress of expectation is not to tell everyone when a test is being taken. Put things into perspective – remember that if you do not pass first time it will be ok. There will always be another opportunity.
- When the test day arrives make sure you know what is expected and have all the documents needed with you.
- Get practice in. Drivers with a provisional Category F tractor license are not allowed to practice on road and can only drive on road when going to and from the test location. So, getting enough experience on farm in a safe environment is key. Learner drivers can get experience of driving in traffic by sitting in the passenger seat of a vehicle driven by a fully qualified driver.
Reasons for failure
The top failure reasons are:
- Failing to move off safely
- Failure to observe and have sufficient control when reversing left
- Poor observation at junctions
- Poor use of mirrors when changing speed
- Poor position at a junction when turning right
- Knowledge of the Highway Code
- Failure to signal correctly.
Professional training courses
Transport related accidents are the biggest cause of farm workplace death and injury, and it is well worth thinking about taking a professional delivered training course in the safe use of vehicles such as those offered by Lantra.