Learner driver in UK fails theory test 92 times

If you thought failing your driving test the first time around was bad luck, spare a  thought for a poor man in the UK that has failed his theory test a whopping 92 times – he hasn’t even had the chance to sit his practical examination yet.

The Irish Independent reports that the 28-year-old man, who can’t be named due to data protection laws, has spent almost €3,500 on theory test fees alone and until he passes his theory test he cannot attempt the practical side of things e.g. actually driving a car.

The theory test is made up of some multiple-choice questions about the rules of the road and a hazard-perception test, where learner drivers are asked to spot developing road dangers on a driving video.

The information, which was released by the Driving Standards Agency following a Freedom of Information request, also shows that a 33-year-old man failed the practical test 22 times before he finally passed.

Phil Oliver, a driving instructor who owns Roadworks School of Motoring in Leicester, said he was stunned by the figures.

“It’s an incredible number of times to fail a test. I’ve never heard of anything like it,” he said.

“Research has shown time after time that the most reliable way to pass is to have regular weekly or twice-weekly lessons, until you’re a confident driver and no longer need help and guidance from the instructor,” he added.

Mr Oliver said that people are more likely to run into trouble when they try to pack intensive lessons into a short period of time, although failing your theory test 92 times probably indicates that if you want to pass your driving test, you should seriously consider actually READING  the theory test book before you attempt the exam.