Majority of drivers think they'd fail their test today

Richard Aucock, Contributor
Wed, 04 Dec 2024

The majority of motorists think they’d probably fail their driving test if they had to re-take it today, due to a lack of Highway Code knowledge and bad habits picked up along the way.

Three-quarters of drivers suspect they’d fail the driving theory test due to not knowing the Highway Code well enough according to the AA.

It’s older drivers who are less confident of passing the theory test than young drivers. Nearly 8 in 10 drivers aged over 65 believe the Highway Code would cause a theory test failure.

However, some of this can be put down to those who qualified prior to 1996, when the theory test was introduced.

Meanwhile, more than half suspect bad habits would lead to a fail in the practical test. One in 3 also reckon nerves would get in the way of passing the practical test, while a quarter think reversing manoeuvres would be their downfall.

Having to retake a driving test isn’t as uncommon as it sounds, either. Situations that could cause a qualified driver to retake their test include upgrading from an automatic to a manual licence and losing a licence under the New Driver Act. This happens if a new driver receives six points in the first two years of holding a licence.

Drivers who have previously been banned from driving for more than 56 days also have to retake their driving test.

"For so many to believe they have slipped into enough bad habits to prevent a pass is worrying," says AA Driving School MD Camilla Benitz.

The AA says that the lack of Highway Code knowledge is particularly concerning not just for the ability to pass a theory test, but also for drivers being safe on the roads now.

Ask HJ

What first car do you suggest for a 17 year old?

My son is aged 17 and has just passed his driving test. I would like to buy him his first car and I would appreciate your guidance on what to get him. Obviously, it needs to be safe and reliable. The Bank of Dad would prefer something that is relatively cheap to insure, run and maintain. He is 6 foot 3 tall and still growing, so there needs to be plenty of head and leg room for him, along with enough space for adults in the back and his dog in the boot to be comfortable. Where we live, there are many narrow country lanes nearby, so a higher driving position would be preferred to help him see other road users. Which vehicles would you suggest that best meet these criteria for a budget of up to £7000? I'm very grateful for your help and I look forward to hearing your thoughts.

Take a look at a Dacia Sandero Stepway. It's a slightly left-field choice for a new driver - which should help with insurance costs - while it's also a bit bigger than a typical first car. While it's not an SUV, its raised suspension should help on rural lanes. Alternatively, a Honda Jazz would be another unfashionable choice with more interior space than normal for a small car.

Answered by Andrew Brady

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