What you actually need to hear
- Failing a first sitting does not mean you cannot pass the next one: you now have concrete information about how it went.
- Use that information: identify the topics you missed, review the theory, and practise targeted questions before booking another date.
- The fee on your application covers two sittings; a new fee 2.1 is due only after two fails. A driving school's services may have their own terms.
Recovery plan (10–14 days)
- Day 1
Rest. Don't study today.
A failure weighs on you. Forcing yourself to study while frustrated leads to worse learning. We start tomorrow.
- Day 2–3
Diagnosis: full simulation + mistakes list
Take a 30-question simulation like the real exam. Note where you failed, topic by topic. That list is your roadmap — don't study blind.
Take 30-question simulation - Day 4–5
Work the two topics where you failed the most
Start with the two worst. Drill their topic-specific test until you score 10/10 twice. Don't move on without mastering the previous one.
Tests by topic - Day 6–7
Move to the next 2–3 problem topics
Same pattern: topic → specific test → 10/10 twice → next. If you get stuck on a question, jump to its full explanation page.
Common mistakes - Day 8–9
Review with the theory syllabus
Re-read the theory of the topics that hurt you the most. Tests without theory behind them are empty memorisation.
Full syllabus - Day 10–12
Alternating simulations with a 1-day break
Full simulation every other day. When you pass two in a row with margin (1–2 mistakes), you're ready to sit again.
30-question simulation - Day 13–14
Light review only. Rest the day before.
Nothing new. Short tests to keep the engine warm. Sleep well the night before, eat normally, arrive 30 minutes early.
Quick 10-question test
Administrative source checked: DGT requirements and exam application guidance. The fee gives two sittings, a passed test remains valid for two years, and the medical certificate must be submitted within 90 days.
Keep going
Frequently asked questions
- How long do I have to wait to retake the DGT exam?
- The DGT guide does not set a general waiting period between sittings: availability depends on your provincial office. The fee paid with an application gives you two exam sittings; after two fails you must submit a new application and pay a new fee. A passed test remains valid for two years.
- How many times can I retake it?
- Each application gives you two exam sittings. If you fail twice, whether in the same test or in different tests, you need a new application and fee; you can then continue under the current procedure. If you still do not pass, review your study method.
- Do I lose what I paid the driving school if I fail?
- You do not automatically lose your enrolment or materials. The DGT fee is not due again until the two sittings on the application have been used; schools may charge separately for administration, lessons or extra attempts, so check your contract.
- Can I improve after failing?
- Yes, if you turn the result into a diagnosis: review the topics you missed, practise targeted questions and take timed simulations before booking another date. Experience from one sitting does not guarantee the next result.
- Where do I start the recovery?
- Three steps: (1) accept the failure and give yourself 24 hours before studying again; (2) identify the topics where you failed the most — written notes from the exam help; otherwise take a simulation and review your mistakes; (3) for the next 10–14 days alternate syllabus theory with topic tests, plus a full simulation every 2–3 days.