Chesterfield driving instructor insists the theory test 'shouldn't be underestimated'
It's as one learner driver ended up passing their theory test at the 75th attempt - according to the AA
A learner driver passed the theory test at the 75th attempt, new figures show, spending more than £1,700 on fees.
AA Driving School, which obtained the statistics, said it is "easy to underestimate" the level of knowledge required to pass the exam.
Each test attempt costs £23, meaning the candidate who finally passed last year spent a total of £1,725.
Another learner has taken the test 128 times without success, at a cost of £2,944.
The theory test evaluates knowledge and understanding of road rules and safe driving practices through multiple-choice questions, and ability to assess danger via hazard perception videos.
Learners must pass the test before they can book a practical exam.
Emma Bush, managing director at AA Driving School, said revision is "the key to success" in the theory test, but acknowledged that "life can get in the way", resulting in "extra nerves and time-pressures on the day".
She went on: "It is easy to underestimate the level of knowledge required to pass the theory test.
"Passing your theory test is the first step towards achieving your full driving licence, and clearly these candidates who have attempted it multiple times are very committed to achieving their goal.
"There are lots of reasons why someone might find the theory test challenging and therefore rack up multiple attempts before they pass, though it's important to remember a high number of attempts is the exception, not the rule."
The highest number of attempts at the practical test before passing last year was 21, costing between £1,302 and £1,575 depending on when the person took the tests.
Two people have taken the practical test 37 times without passing, spending up to £2,220 each.
AA Driving School obtained the figures in response to a Freedom of Information request to the Driver and Vehicle Standards Agency (DVSA).
Ms Bush added: "For the practical test, the best advice to prevent you having to take your test multiple times is to work with your instructor to book a test when they think you are ready to pass.
"If nerves are getting the better of you, doing some practical mock tests with your instructor may also help."
Separate DVSA statistics show the pass rates for the theory and practical tests in the 2024/25 financial year were 44.9% and 48.7% respectively,
Officials have urged learners not to book a practical test until they are confident that they will pass, as part of measures aimed at tackling a backlog.
Chris Marples is a driving instructor in Chesterfield:
"They might do a few mock tests - get a couple where they just about pass it - and then think they've done enough.
"However, they won't have enough knowledge, because the questions on the apps might not be what they end up getting on the test itself, as they're just a selection of questions.
"Driving theory tests aren't cheap, but I think they ought to be more expensive to discourage people from just taking a chance - because I think that is what happens a lot of the time.
"Laziness is a key factor as to why people fail - a lack of revision and no intention of revising.
"I wouldn't say the theory test is difficult, but it does require some time and effort to be fully up to speed, and to give yourself the best chance of passing it.
"I also understand that some people do find it difficult for various reasons, such a special educational needs and disabilities."