New figures have revealed the extraordinary lengths some learner drivers go to in pursuit of a licence, with one individual spending almost £3,000 on theory test attempts alone.
Record-Breaking Number of Failed Attempts
Statistics obtained by the AA Driving School through a Freedom of Information request show a particularly persistent candidate has taken the DVSA theory test 128 times without success. With each test costing £23, this amounts to a staggering total spend of £2,944.
Another learner's story ended more successfully, but only after a marathon 74 failed attempts. This driver finally passed on their 75th try, having spent £1,725 in fees.
The Cost of Commitment and Nerves
Emma Bush, Managing Director at AA Driving School, acknowledged the immense commitment shown by these candidates. "Passing your theory test is the first step towards achieving your full driving licence," she said, "and clearly these candidates who have attempted it multiple times are very committed to achieving their goal."
She explained that "life can get in the way," with extra nerves and time pressures often affecting performance on exam day. Bush was keen to point out that such a high number of attempts is "the exception, not the rule," and that many factors can make the test challenging for some.
Practical Test Attempts Also Run High
The data, sourced from the Driver and Vehicle Standards Agency (DVSA), also shed light on practical test attempts. Last year, the highest number of attempts before passing was 21. Given that a practical test costs between £62 and £75, this represents an outlay of £1,302 to £1,575.
More strikingly, two individuals have each taken the practical test 37 times without passing, spending up to £2,220 each.
Expert Advice for Success
For those struggling with the practical test, Emma Bush offered clear guidance. "The best advice to prevent you having to take your test multiple times is to work with your instructor to book a test when they think you are ready to pass," she advised.
She also suggested a remedy for test-day anxiety: "If nerves are getting the better of you, doing some practical mock tests with your instructor may also help."
