Less than half of all learner drivers in Dorset passed their driving theory first time
A new study has found people are more likely to fail their driving theory test than they are a Maths GCSE
More people in Dorset pass their GCSE Maths exam than their driving theory test as pass rates fall to 45%.
According to research from RED Driver Training, more than £16 million has been wasted in failed theory tests in the past year alone.
Tim Shelton from Shelton School of Driving based in Dorchester believes the wording of questions is a huge reason why many people fail.
He told us: “Some of the questions are written in such a way that it doesn’t make sense and it can become very confusing for people taking the test, even I get caught out reading some of the questions.
“I think the DVLA should stop looking to catch people out and rethink the way some of these questions are being worded.”
The report found the most common reason for failing was due to nervousness or anxiety (34%).
Driving instructors across the county believe calling it a ‘test’ puts unnecessary pressure on learners which subsequently causes them to fail.
Tim said: “The fact theory tests are so expensive exacerbates those feelings of anxiety. Spending £23 on something you may fail five or six times makes things worse.”
Since 2007, the theory pass rate has steadily declined with 65% likely to pass in 2007 compared to just 45% last year.
More than one in six learners admitted to ‘winging’ their theory test as they thought it would be ‘easy’.
Mr Shelton added: “I’m not surprised to hear how many people underestimated the theory test. I’d say I’ve had clients that have gone into the theory with the attitude that they know it all.
“A lot of the questions are common sense, but that's only when you're asked about what to do in certain situations, when it comes to road signs, you need to study.”
Tim wants to see driving theory lessons incorporated into the school curriculum.
He said: “We should be getting driving instructors to take some classes in school to teach theory so when kids turn 17 they have a better understanding of road signs, road markings and generally what to do on the road.”