THE DVSA has revealed the centres with the lowest driving test pass rate across the country – and it’s bad news for those learning in two major cities in the south west.
The Driver and Vehicle Standards Agency, which conducts driving tests in the UK, including theory tests, recently shared their driving test and theory test data for September 2024.
The hardest test centres in the Uk have been revealed – and it’s bad news for those learning in two cities in the south west[/caption]
It showed some centres have stark differences to others, with a clear sign that many learners are facing challenges in securing a pass.
In the list of the top 10 lowest pass rates, the Plymouth LGV test centre in Devon had the lowest pass rate, just 27.3% – meaning just over a quarter of the drivers who took their test were going home disappointed and out of pocket.
Of course, the LGV centre specialises in large goods vehicles – those that want to get behind the wheel of a lorry or bus.
Second on the list was the test centre in Watnall, Nottinghamshire, with a 29.4% pass rate.
Nervous drivers in the area might fancy taking their test at the centre in Ashfield, which is a 25-minute drive away and has a pass rate of 51%.
Third on the list is the city of Exeter, just an hour away from Plymouth, with a 33.3% pass rate.
The village of Gairloch in West Ross, Scotland, is level with Exeter on pass rate, with Leicester’s Cannock Street branch completing the top five with a 34% pass rate.
Of course, while failing a driving test (or theory test) is not the end of the world and both tests can be retaken, test slots are currently in high demand and eager drivers may be forced to wait weeks or even months for a fresh chance.
That is why it is crucial for learners to be fully prepared ahead of their test, to avoid the frustration and cost of retaking.
This comes as, late last year, it was reported that now is the best time to take your driving test – as instructors are apparently being urged to up their pass rates.
These measures are reportedly being implemented to address the huge backlog in the wake of the pandemic.
Average waiting times for learners to get to the test centre are currently stubbornly high at 26 weeks.
That’s almost four times the Department for Transport‘s target of just seven weeks.
The figures have prompted the Transport Select Committee in Parliament to look into the issue and see how it can be addressed.
In the latest round of hearings the Public and Commercial Services (PCS) Union, which represents DVSA employees, accused the agency of putting pressure on examiners to be more lenient.
How to boost your chances of passing first time
Seb Goldin, CEO of RED Driver Training, the largest driving school in the UK, that trains nearly a quarter of all driving instructors in the country, has shared his top five tips to help boost your chances of passing for the first time:
- Master your manoeuvres
Ensure you’re confident with key manoeuvres like parallel parking, a forward bay park or a reverse bay park. These can make or break your test, so practice them until you’re confident in doing these under pressure. Let your instructor know ahead of your test if there’s anything you’re concerned about and they can help you practice until needed.
- Plan your lessons with your instructor wisely
Take lessons at different times of day, including busy periods. This helps you get comfortable with all driving conditions and traffic situations, giving you a true feel for real-world driving. Particularly if the only time you can secure a test is during a busy period – you’ll be thanking yourself later.
Your instructor will also help make sure you’re test ready and point out anything that needs to be worked on. They’re there to help your chances of passing for the first time!
- Focus on observation and awareness
The driving test is as much about your ability to spot hazards as it is about your car control. Stay alert, check mirrors regularly, and always anticipate what’s happening on the road. Your examiner will be looking out for this, so keep this in the back of your mind while taking the test.
- Know your theory
Putting your theory knowledge into practice is more important during your test than ever. There are also resources students can use to ensure that they are fully prepared – at RED, we have apps to help our students prepare for their tests such as the Learn to Drive with RED app and RED’s Complete Driving Theory app.
- Stay calm under pressure
Don’t let nerves get the best of you. Stay calm, take deep breaths, and if you make a mistake, don’t let it get to you. Keep your focus on the next task and show the examiner you can recover quickly.
