Northamptonshire driving instructor: ‘Cheating driving tests is dangerous and irresponsible’
Latest figures reveal rise in driving test cheating, raising serious road safety concerns
Last updated 21st Jan 2026
A driving instructor in Northamptonshire has expressed concern about the dangers of driving test cheats following new figures showing a sharp rise in attempts to cheat driving tests.
Cheating in driving tests increased by 47% , according to Driver and Vehicle Standards Agency (DVSA) figures obtained through a Freedom of Information request. A total of 2,844 cases of cheating were recorded during that period, up from 1,940 the previous year.
The DVSA attributed the rise to a mix of increased cheating and enhanced detection methods.
Speaking about how it affects road users, Deborah Thurman, from Driving with Deborah in Towcester said, “It’s incredibly frustrating and dangerous. These people are amongst us on the road, and they don’t have the skills needed to be there.”
Thurman's warning comes as concerns grow about the potential impact on road safety. According to motoring charity RAC Foundation, driving test cheats are “putting other road users at risk.”
The DVSA's findings revealed that technology-assisted cheating during theory tests – such as earpieces linked to hidden Bluetooth devices – accounted for the largest group of cases in 2024/25, with a total of 1,113 incidents. Meanwhile, impersonation attempts during theory or practical tests represented 1,084 and 647 cases respectively.
Thurman expressed her disbelief at why anyone would take such dangerous risks. She said:
“You just sort of think, who would possibly decide that it’s a good idea to cheat their way onto the road without the skills to drive? It’s madness.”
She further highlighted the dangers of being unprepared or lacking proper driving knowledge, explaining that even some learners who passed their theory test legitimately can forget key information when behind the wheel.
'' I do have some students who need reminding of the information that they've already acquired and even if they've passed the theory test – they still need to know it.
The DVSA have stated that it takes various measures to prevent cheating, including using metal detectors, inspecting candidates’ clothing and pockets, and cross-checking intelligence about vehicles or individuals involved in previous offences.
The investigation also comes amid a significant backlog for practical driving tests. Learners are waiting on average 22 weeks for a test, compared with five weeks before the coronavirus pandemic. However, the DVSA said it has no evidence to link cheating with delays.
Raising awareness, Thurman urged new drivers to avoid the temptation of cheating and stressed the importance of gaining proper skills and knowledge for road safety.
“Do not do it. There are far too many risks involved, apart from the fact it’s illegal. You’re putting your own life and other people’s at risk.”
She added, “If you haven’t earned the right to be on the road by passing the exams, then you absolutely shouldn’t be there.”
If you suspect someone of cheating in their theory test you can report to the DVSA intelligence unit via email: [email protected] or by telephone: 0800 030 4103