One in 20 disheartened learner drivers have given up trying to pass their test. This is a direct result of delays caused by the Covid-19 pandemic, new analysis has reveals.

The research by insurance specialists, Marmalade found women were almost twice as likely to quit as men. This follows 15 months of driving test suspensions and theory test expirations.

The lengthy backlog in driving tests remains, despite resumption in testing from April.

Delays and disappointments

In Marmalade’s survey of 1,700 learners, a whopping 89% of youngsters said the pandemic had delayed them passing their test. Almost 40% said they now face a five month wait or longer to take their test.

Out of the 5% of learners who said they had given up learning to drive, 62% were women and 33% were men.

Despite the many setbacks, absence appears to have made the heart grow finder. More than a third of learners (35%) said learning to drive had now become more important to them.

Moving on

Commenting on the research, CEO at Marmalade Crispin Moger, said: “Learner drivers have had to overcome many challenges over the last 15 months.

“We recognise the significance of people passing their driving test.

“This research unearths the true reality of what learning to drive has been like over the course of the last year. I’m sure it may come as a bit of an eye-opener for some.

Moger added that he believed “learners will be more determined than ever to pass their test – making it all the more sweet when they do!”.