Learner driver spends £1,380 and takes 59 attempts to pass theory test

04 December 2023 , 14:57

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The learner finally passed their theory test after 59 failed attempts (stock image) (Image: PA)

A learner driver has been praised for their "amazing" commitment after they finally passed their theory test following 59 failed attempts.

The person from Worcestershire, who has not been named, spent £1,380 and around 60 hours on the process at one test centre in Redditch, according to new data. It's more than anyone else in the United Kingdom - but not by much. One learner in Hull failed an impressive 57 tests before passing, while another person in leafy Tunbridge Wells racked up a total of 53 fails.

The figures, which were taken from the Driver and Vehicle Standards Agency (DVSA) and analysed by AA Driving School, showed the performance of learner drivers who passed during the first half of 2023.

The figures from the Driver and Vehicle Standards Agency (DVSA) relate to learner drivers who passed during the first half of 2023. One theory test attempt costs £23, and takes around an hour.

It comes after data also showed the pass rate for the driving theory test has reached its lowest point in recorded history. Learners’ chances of passing their theory test have fallen by a third since 2007/08 from 65.4%, to just 44.2% in 2022/23. Huge variation is also clear between different test centres, with the highest pass rate standing at 73.5% at Aviemore in Scotland compared to just 23.6% at Hornsea in Yorkshire.

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Commenting on some of the results, the AA said nerves can be a big factor on test day - but that people can make it easier for themselves by revising. The breakdown company, who also run a large driving school, recently launched a new app with an in-built revision feature. Camilla Benitz, managing director of AA Driving School, said: "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."

Benedict Tetzlaff-Deas