New research from the Driver and Vehicle Standards Agency (DVSA) shows that ADIs are now using mock driving tests more regularly.

The results come from a survey earlier this year –  7 February 2023 to 22 February 2023.

These results reveal that nearly 1 in 5 ADIs have used, offered and encouraged mock tests more regularly. It all comes on the back of DVSA published guidance on how to carry out mock tests.

Guidance gains momentum

The headline responses and results of the survey revealed that:

  • 97% of ADIs offer mock tests to either their pupils or pupils of other instructors
  • 84% of ADIs offer mock tests to all their pupils, an increase of 3% since 2019
  • 19% of ADIs who offer mock tests offer them more frequently after new DVSA guidance
  • 2% of ADIs previously did not offer mock tests, but have started to since DVSA published the new guidance
  • 1 in 5 ADIs have seen requests for mock tests increase in the 3 months prior to the survey

The full results of the survey have been published on GOV.UK.

How driving instructors view and use mock driving tests: 2023 survey results

Improving test success

Further research with learner drivers shows that people who have taken realistic mock driving tests are 1.4 times more likely to pass their actual driving test.

With the long waiting times for driving tests post pandemic, as well as a stubbornly low pass rate of under 50%, the results emphasise just how important mock test can be.

Firstly, they ensure a pupil is the appropriate stage to apply or take the driving test.

Secondly, it gives pupils a good idea of what to expect and reduces nerves and anxiety on the day of the actual test.

Thirdly, it is likely to raise the overall pass rate and have the knock on effect of reducing waiting times for test bookings.

A fourth benefit is that it could help ADIs hen trying to deflect demands from both pupils and their parents to book a driving test. It is often cited that driving instructors are unfairly pressured to book a test with parents and pupils cynically believing they are just trying to extend a pupil’s learning period so they can earn more money. Whilst at the same time, ADIs are often blamed by the industry for allowing pupils to attempt the driving test before they are ready and wasting time and test slots.

More help and info

DVSA is running a webinar for ADIs on Tuesday 27 June, from 6pm to 7pm. This will attempt to provide more help and information on carrying out mock tests.

It will be hosted by Graham O’Brien, Assistant Chief Driving Examiner.

You’ll wi;; be able to see and hear the presenters, but nobody will be able to see or hear you.

this can be joined  via your PC, laptop, tablet or phone.

There ill be a short presentation, followed by a Q&A. You’ll be able to type any questions you’ve got, and presenters will do their best to answer as many as they can during the session.

Read the full report results and conclusions here.