Experts have suggested that learner drivers could be given a rebate if they pass their test on their first attempt as lengthy backlogs continue to hammer learner drivers, as one driver fails their theory test almost 60 times.
The RAC Foundation has suggested that learner drivers could be incentivised to only take a test when they are fully prepared if they receive money back after they pass their tests.
It acknowledged that drivers would likely have to pay for more lessons and practice, but it would be beneficial to them if they avoid having to pay again if they fail their test. At the same time, it has been suggested that people who continually fail their tests could be asked to pay more given the waste of resources.
This would also have a knock-on effect for other motorists, with "tens of thousands" of people being able to pass their tests the first time without having to wait a long time to take the practical exam.
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A practical driving test can cost as much as £75
PAIn 2023-2024, almost 900,000 first-time driving tests were taken but only 48.1 per cent (430,799) were passed. A record 1,945,225 tests were taken with a 47.9 per cent pass rate.
To take a practical driving test during the day between Monday and Friday, motorists will pay £62, although this will rise to £75 if they want to take the test in the evenings, on the weekend or during a bank holiday.
Steve Gooding, director of the RAC Foundation, said: “Unfortunately many learners apply for a test date as soon as they first get behind the wheel and stick with it, ready or not, for fear of a long wait for a replacement if they postpone.
“To break this vicious circle we need some fresh thinking from the next government. Why not offer a fee rebate of some kind for candidates who pass their test first time?"
He added that it would be in the best interests of all road users for people to wait until they are confident to take the test.
Gooding said it was a good decision to improve the pass rate to boost road safety and allow younger people to have greater employment opportunities which are only possible with a licence.
This comes as one driver from Redditch, in the West Midlands, spent almost £1,400 and around 60 hours trying to pass their driving theory test, PA reported.
The candidate now holds the dubious record of having the highest number of unsuccessful attempts at the theory test with 59 before finally passing the test.
The RAC Foundation encourages drivers to only take a theory or practical test when they think they are ready to avoid wasting their own money.
When doing this, people are also taking up slots that should be left open to candidates who are ready for the test to address the "unacceptable" backlog.
Experts say this forces people who are confident in their ability to wait "many months for a slot", especially when people are taking and failing tests multiple times.
A total of 93,204 driving tests taken in the year to the end of March were at least a candidate's sixth attempt to pass their test, according to new Government data.
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There is still a large backlog for driving tests following the coronavirus pandemic
PAThe average wait time for a practical driving test is around 18 weeks, according to AA Driving School, with the pandemic and subsequent lockdowns having a dramatic impact on delays.
