UK learner driver passes test after 59 attempts; sets record
A learner driver in the United Kingdom finally passed their theory test on the 60th attempt after failing 59 times, setting a record for the most attempts ever made in the country. The driver, who wishes to stay anonymous, reportedly spent a whooping £1,380 (roughly Rs. 145,000) and 60 hours in the entire process! They are now "gearing up" for their practical driving test.
Learners have first to pass incredibly difficult theory test
Acquiring a driving license in the UK involves one of the world's longer theory tests. Learners have to first appear for the theory test, believed to be a tough nut to crack, just as it has been for the anonymous learner. The test requires patience, multiple revisions before appearing, and extreme commitment to nail it as it assesses the candidate's overall driving knowledge.
Test has 50 multiple-choice questions, costs £23
This test comprises 50 multiple-choice questions (MCQs), of which the learner has to get at least 43 questions correct to pass. This is followed by a hazard perception section involving 14 video clips of driving situations. Priced at £23 (Rs. 2,400 approx), this hour-long exam evaluates potential drivers on their understanding of the Highway Code and their responses to danger.
Passing rate of this exam has dropped to 44%
If you are wondering, the UK driver's theory exam pass rate may surprise you. It dropped from 65% in 2007-08 to merely 44% in 2022-23! Camilla Benitz, managing director of AA Driving School, told The Guardian that learners often underestimate this test, which is why they end up attempting several times before passing. However, Benitz believes success shouldn't come at such a high cost.
Country has seen 53, 55, 57 attempts previously
Before this, the record for the highest number of theory test attempts was held by a learner driver from the city of Kingston upon Hull, who reportedly failed 57 times before passing on the 58th attempt. Moreover, a driver from Guildford made 55 failed attempts, and preceding them was a driver from Tunbridge Wells with 53 failed tries.
UK has 16th hardest theory test in world
While all this may give you a picture that the UK's theory test is the toughest, it only ranks 16th on the difficulty level globally. It falls behind the theory tests of countries including Russia and Japan, mandating a score of 86% to pass! As for the number of questions, it is behind Montenegro (70), Bulgaria (97), China and Turkey (100), and Vietnam (450).
After theory test comes practical driving test
People who fail the theory test have to wait at least three working days to reappear for it. Once they pass, they have to prepare for a practical driving test, which entails five important elements, including an eyesight check, vehicle safety questions, general driving ability, reversing the vehicle, and independent driving. This test costs £62 (weekdays) or £75 (evenings, weekends and bank holidays).
