Driving theory pass rate hits new low – more than half of wannabe drivers fail test as most don’t understand road signs
DRIVING theory test pass rates are the lowest they have been in 15 years, according to data released by the DVSA.
The pass rate now stands at just 44.2 per cent, compared to 65.4 per cent back in 2007/8.
And there is a huge disparity between the success rate across different regions – with those in Aviemore, Scotland most likely to pass (73.5 per cent).
In contrast, new motorists in Hornsea, Yorkshire are least likely to come away with the qualification (23.6 per cent).
It comes after a study of 12,903 motorists, by AA Driving School, found just 18 per cent think they could pass a theory driving test if they had to retake it.
An overwhelming nine in ten admitted they don’t understand all road signs – with 26 per cent of these saying this happens very often or sometimes.
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A separate study of 12,598 drivers revealed knowledge of stopping distances was also an issue – with fewer drivers knowing the right answer the faster the car is travelling.
At 20mph (in dry conditions), 38 per cent correctly said the stopping distance would be between 11 and 20 metres.
But only 24 per cent could identify what the stopping distances would be at both 50mph and 60mph.
And just 23 per cent knew it takes 96 metres to stop when travelling at 70mph – with nine per cent believing it took less than 50 metres.
The analysis comes as the AA Driving School launches a to tackle the problem.
Managing director, Camilla Benitz, said: “The theory test pass rate went up briefly during the pandemic when fewer people were taking it but it’s now lower than ever.
“Learners face enough challenges as it is at the moment with the driving test backlog.
"We don’t want the theory test to be another hurdle for them which is why we’ve created our new app.
“The fact so many qualified drivers also struggle with important elements of driving theory such as road signs and stopping distances just shows it takes revision and practice to get to grips with the questions and the hazard perception.
“We want to help learners do this in an easy to manage, enjoyable way.
"Users will be able to use flash cards for quick revision sessions, both on and offline, as well as track their progress with real-time statistics.”
The DVSA data shows learner drivers in Gairloch, Symbister and Ullapool are among those most likely to pass their theory test.
Keanan Lloyd-Adams, a young driver and social media influencer, said: “There’s loads for learners to take on board when they start lessons and the theory test can feel intimidating but it’s got to be done.
“My generation always has access to a phone now so using an app to pass your theory test is a great way to get your revision done – it’s the best way I can think of.
“My own experience, and from what I see on social media, learning to drive is a really key moment in your life when you turn from a child to an adult.
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"Crucially, when you pass your test you have other lives in your hands, which is a huge responsibility.
“Making sure you really know your theory is an important first step to becoming, and staying, safe behind the wheel.”
Theory car pass rates - annual summary
Year Pass rate
2007/08 65.4
2008/09 65.4
2009/10 63.8
2010/11 63.1
2011/12 60.8
2012/13 59.1
2013/14 51.6
2014/15 51.0
2015/16 49.3
2016/17 48.7
2017/18 48.7
2018/19 47.3
2019/20 47.1
2020/21 55.7
2021/22 50.1
2022/23 44.2
The ten test centres with the highest theory test pass rate
1. Aviemore 73.5
2. Gairloch 69.0
3. Symbister 64.3
4. Ullapool 62.2
5. Castlebay (Isle of Barra) 62.1
6. Kyle of Lochalsh 60.8
7. Tarbert (Isle of Harris) 59.5
8. Craignure (Isle of Mull) 58.8
9. Brechin 58.5
10. Tongue 56.5
The ten test centres with the lowest theory test pass rate
1. Hornsea 23.6
2. Fakenham 35.5
3. Uxbridge 37.4
4. Bradford 37.1
5. Brodick (Isle of Arran) 38.5
6. Ilford 38.8
7. Leicester 39.2
8. Porthmadog 39.4
9. Dudley 39.6
10. Kings Lynn 39.8