There’s bad news for learner drivers – 55% of candidates failed their driving theory test in 2023 according to the latest Driver and Vehicle Standards data.

That amounts to 711,000 candidates and, with tests costing £23 each, an overall bill of over £16 million.

No surprise

Perhaps we really shouldn’t be surprised by the fail rate. Back in 2007, the pass rate was actually a whopping 65% but it’s been falling ever since.

However, there is some ‘good’ news as it was 2022 that saw the lowest pass rate – 44% – compared to 2023’s 45%. So that represents a one-percent increase in success…

Other good news is women managed an average 47% theory test pass rate in 2023 versus men who achieved a more miserly 44%.

Why fail?

According to analysis by RED Driver Training, there are several reasons for these dismal results. For instance:

  • 34% of learner drivers say they failed because of anxiety or nervousness
  • 20% because of a lack of familiarity with road rules
  • 15% because they decided to ‘wing it’ on test day
  • 14% because they didn’t have time to revise.

Most worrying, 39% of learners who didn’t make the grade on the big day only put in under five hours of preparation.

Also, once a fail had been handed to them, 42% of learners only told immediate family while 12% kept quiet about their fail full stop.

“The driving theory test is not as easy as people think and there certainly are tricky questions from first aid to knowing your driving documentation … Learner drivers must prioritise comprehensive preparation, including consistent practice, thorough understanding of road rules, and seeking professional guidance. Success on the road begins with diligent preparation in the classroom, before mastering the technical skills behind the wheel.”

• Seb Goldin, CEO, RED Driver Training

Get it right

Remember, ensuring your Highway Code knowledge is up to scratch is vital to maintaining – or enhancing – driving standards on our roads. It means investing in under five hours simple won’t cut it as so many learners have discovered.

Instead, use any resources available to gradually increase your knowledge over time. It’s why we created Theory Test Pro in the first place, creating a simple app that ensures you can learn the Highway Code properly. Importantly, your instructor can check on your progress so you can work together to cover any gaps in your knowledge.

And most importantly? Learners who study with Theory Test Pro are twice as likely to pass their theory test on the big day. In other words, our approach works.

Know Your Code

Double your chances of theory test success with Theory Test Pro. Sign up for free here.

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