Recent research by AA Driving School shows that theory test pass rate have fallen to their lowest rate in history.

Just 44.2% recently passed the test compared to 65.4% in 2007/08.

Getting started

It should be a low cost initiation into the driving experience, in theory.

However, it seems to be proving particularly challenging to some candidates, both on mind and wallet. Some candidates have spent more than £1,000 on multiple attempts to pass before they can get on with the practical test.

On top of the problems and delays post pandemic and lockdown for young people, particularly in educational areas, topped off with the ‘cost of living crisis’, the issue is becoming a pressing one.

Furthermore, once they mange to pass the Theory Test, then trying to find a driving instructor with space in their diary, they also face record waiting times to take the even more challenging Practical Test.

Preparation is key

Theory Test Apps have proved to be a helpful and productive tool for learners. A number of companies have been providing apps and aids of this nature over recent years. Learners, particularly young people, have found them indispensable in the revision process and passing the test.

As a result, and following their new research, AA Driving School has launched their own theory test app. It aims to help learners tackle the test with confidence.

The AA Driving School Theory Test app contains more than 700 theory questions and extensive hazard perception clips. Learners can use the flashcard feature for quick-fire revision sessions, access content when offline, take timed mock tests and track their progress.

The AA Driving School Theory Test app is available on Apple and Google Play stores

National novices

AA Driving School has now revealed that the most spent on theory test attempts before passing was £1,380 at Redditch theory test centre. This equates to 60 attempts of the £23 test.

The shocking facts come as the result of a Freedom of Information request to the DVSA.

Eighty-four driving theory test centres saw candidates shell out more than £500 each. Twenty two attempts each were required to achieve a pass certificate.

Further more, half of driving theory test centres (125 centres) saw at least one candidate spend £345 to take the test 15 times before they were successful.

Scoring highs

Number of theory test attempts prior to passing by candidate(s) Cost to individual Theory Test Centre
60 £1,380 Redditch
58 £1,334 Hull
56 £1,288 Guildford
54 £1,242 Royal Tunbridge Wells
52 £1,196 Bristol
48 £1,104 Birmingham
48 £1,104 Chelmsford
48 £1,104 Sidcup
48 £1,104 Sutton Coldfield
47 £1,081 Taunton 


Theoretical sense


A written theory test was introduced for learner drivers in 1996. Today, the theory test is made up of two parts.


The first is a 57 minute session to answer 50 multiple choice questions. These are based on the Highway Code.


Secondly comes the Hazard Perception test. Candidates are asked to spot hazards in videos in a timely fashion.


Candidates must pass both the multiple choice (43 out of 50) and Hazard Perception test (44 out of 75) before they can book their practical driving test.




App-titude


“Passing your theory test is the first stage to getting on the road,” comments  Camilla Benitz, AA Driving School managing director.


“There’s no doubt it’s a tough test and these learners’ commitment to passing is amazing, but, with the right tools, it really shouldn’t need to cost this much to be successful.


“Nerves can undoubtedly play a part, as well as making sure you understand what the test will involve before you get there. It’s quite easy to underestimate the theory test and assume that you’ll be able to pass without any effort at all but that’s not the case.


“Revision is the key to success. Apps like ours can really help with features like flashcards for quick-fire revision sessions, both on and offline, as well as trackable progress with real-time statistics.”


You can find out more about the app and download it here.