The DVSA has launched an improved and expanded version of its behavioural change campaign to improve learner drivers’ understanding of what it means to be ‘test ready’.
Data shows that more than 51% of driving tests taken in December 2022 were failed.
The ‘Ready to Pass?’ campaign provides guidance for learners to help reduce the number who need to take more than one driving test and help stop tests being wasted.
The recently refreshed campaign website provides helpful new content for learner drivers, including debunking common driving test myths, such as:
- The driving test has pass quotas
- Learners automatically fail if they stall
- Learners automatically fail if they cross their hands when turning the steering wheel
- It’s easier for learners to pass their driving test at certain times of the day
- Learners need to exaggerate moving their head when looking at mirrors
The website also includes advice and tips from experts and other learner drivers to help manage test day nerves.
The DVSA is encouraging learners to carry out simple checks to see if they are ready to take their test.
Learner drivers will have their test cancelled and lose their fee if they forget to bring their provisional driving licence, bring a car that’s not suitable or arrive late for their appointment.
Since April 2022, learner drivers have lost over £673,000 because of these mistakes, as well as being left disappointed and having to wait even longer for a test.
The campaign also aims to help reduce waiting times for tests. With learners being able to rearrange their test free of charge, DVSA is asking learners to delay their test if they are not ready so their appointment can be used by someone else who is ready.
Loveday Ryder, DVSA’s chief executive, said: “I’d urge learners to use our Ready to Pass? website to make sure they’re ready – and delay their test if they’re not. This will help make more tests available and prevent people having to pay to re-test.”
Richard Holden, roads minister, said: “The driving test pass rate is too low and thousands of pounds and tests are being wasted by people not being properly prepared.
“We need to make every test count and I would urge learners to use the ‘Ready to Pass’ campaign or change their test if they aren’t ready.”
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