Only 2% of UK drivers would pass driving theory test today
A recent survey has revealed a startling lack of road safety knowledge among UK drivers, with just 2% of participants passing a driving theory test.
Conducted by Carmoola, the car finance app, the nationally representative survey of 2,004 people explored driving knowledge by asking questions from the official DVSA theory test. To pass in the UK, learner drivers must achieve a mark of 43 out of 50; the results from the survey revealed an average test score of just 31 out of 50.
98% would fail driving theory test
Results showed that more than two in five UK drivers (43%) were unaware that the national speed limit for a car or motorcycle on a motorway is 70 mph, while 44% were unaware that a red traffic light means you must stop and wait behind the line.
The most common mistake made by drivers on the theory test was identifying the shape of a stop sign, with the vast majority (84%) answering incorrectly.
Looking at car maintenance knowledge, only a quarter (24%) of drivers knew that driving more slowly reduces fuel consumption, and two-thirds (66%) were unaware that turning a car’s steering wheel while stationary can damage its tyres.
The survey also revealed significant generational differences in knowledge around driving rules and regulations, with more than three-quarters (76%) of those who passed being Generation X or Baby Boomers (aged 45 and older).
A notable gender disparity in driving knowledge was also revealed, with only 28% of those who passed the theory test being female versus 72% being male.
In a separate survey earlier this year, also conducted by Carmoola, 70% of respondents supported the idea of drivers retaking their tests at regular intervals, with a fifth (18%) advocating for retests every 10 years. This finding underscores a growing public consensus on the need for continuous education to address the widespread gaps in road knowledge revealed by the theory test results.
Aidan Rushby, founder and CEO of Carmoola, said of the driving theory test findings:
“The results of our recent survey are pretty eye-opening! According to our findings, only 2% of drivers would pass their theory test if they were to retake the test today. It seems basic road knowledge is hitting a bit of a speed bump in the UK.
“A whopping 84% couldn’t identify the shape of a stop sign and, perhaps even more worryingly, many didn’t know the motorway speed limit. This, alongside findings from another survey we conducted earlier this year on retesting drivers, emphasises how important it is for road users to remain equipped to drive safely and confidently.”
