According to new data uncovered by AA Driving School, 1,652 incidents of cheating were reported by theory test centres across the country in 2022/2023.
That’s up from 1,151 cases in 2021/2022 and 568 cases in 2020/2021. Such a huge increase represents a tripling of incidents over the past three years.
Out of the 1,652 incidents reported for 2022/2023, 625 people were formally investigated for committing theory test fraud with 46 prosecuted.
Fraudulent ways
The most common type of theory test fraud is someone standing in for the leaner to take the test for them. For instance, in 2023, test candidate Mohammad Shoaib hired an impersonator for £800 to take his test for him after failing the theory test 14 times.
In another case, theory test impersonator Otman Agha-Rida accrued £10,225 by taking the theory test for learners in up to 55 exams between 2021 and 2022.
This type of fraud has led to the ever-climbing increase in theory test cheating as shown in the figures below:
Impersonations reported by test centres
2015/16: 467
2016/17: 414
2017/18: 537
2018/19: 653
2019/20: 848
2020/21: 568
2021/22: 1,151
2022/23: 1,652
Going the wrong way
So why are people struggling? The most common reason cited is the massive increase in waiting times for the driving test, which you need a theory test pass to book, combined with a low national pass rate of only 45.5%.
“The jump in reports of theory test fraud is alarming,” commented AA Driving School’s managing director, “[and] indicates the lengths people will go to secure that all important pass. While passing the theory test does require revision and time spent practicing, it shouldn’t have learners turning to illegal fraudsters to pass.”
Go the right way
Helping you revise is why Theory test Pro was created in the first place. We offer a highly realistic online simulation of the theory test, which contains all the official revision test questions licensed from the Driver and Vehicle Standards Agency – including the Hazard Perception test.
You – and your instructor – can track your progress, highlighting any topics you might be struggling. Crucially, our research shows that if you study with Theory Test Pro, you double your chances of passing your theory test compared to the dismal national average.
Plus we don’t cost £800… and you won’t end up with a criminal conviction. That’s a win-win, we reckon.
Know Your Code
Double your chances of theory test success with Theory Test Pro. Sign up for free here.