More than half of Brits believe they would fail theory test now on 30th anniversary of driving exam
Less than half of British drivers believe they could pass the driving theory test if they took it again today, a new survey to coincide with the assessment’s 30th anniversary has found.
Only 44 percent of the 12,475 AA members surveyed said they believed the minimum standard would be met. The overwhelming majority (90 percent) of those who doubted their ability to pass cited the outdated Highway Code as the primary reason.
This was followed by lack of understanding of general rules of the road (59 percent) and road signs (50 percent). On the contrary, drivers were much more confident in their practical skills; 78 percent were confident they could pass the practical driving test again.
The theory test was first introduced in the UK on 1 July 1996 as a paper-based exam focusing on road rules. It has since evolved into a digital assessment consisting of 50 multiple-choice questions and a hazard perception section with 14 video clips designed to assess the student’s ability to identify and respond to developing risks.
AA Driving School chief executive Emma Bush underlined the wider aim of the test, which is celebrating a significant milestone.
He said: “It helps students understand risk, responsibility and how to make safer decisions on the road. Our research shows that many drivers still feel confident about their practical driving skills, but far fewer feel the same about the theory test.”
Mrs Bush added: “The Highway Code changes over time, roads change, vehicles change and the way we use the road changes, so it’s important for all drivers to keep their knowledge fresh.”
Tens of millions of theory tests have been conducted over the last three decades; A record 2.9 million tests were carried out last financial year, with a success rate of 45 per cent.
To obtain a full licence, students must first pass the theory exam and then successfully complete the practical exam within two years.
If the student cannot pass the practical exam within this period, he/she must retake and pass the theory exam before taking the practical exam again.
