The vast majority of drivers in the UK would not pass their driving theory test if they were asked to sit it again, according to new findings from Direct Line motor insurance.
A survey of more than 2,000 motorists asked participants 15 randomly selected questions taken from the current exam. The outcome was striking: 95% did not achieve the necessary score, and only 1% answered every question correctly.
The results point to widespread gaps in knowledge of the Highway Code. Although 56% of those questioned claimed they kept up to date with changes to the Code, fewer than half (47%) knew when it was last revised (the most recent update was in January 2022).
Practical knowledge also proved to be lacking, with only 20% realising that it is permissible to overtake on either side of a one-way street, while just 41% could recognise the official cycle route sign. Fewer than half understood the correct use of the right-hand lane on a three-lane dual carriageway, and only 45% could state the correct overall stopping distance at 40mph, which is 36 metres.
Performance varied notably by age group, with drivers aged 18 to 28, known as Generation Z, faring best, with 10% reaching the pass mark. They were followed by Millennials (9%), Generation X (3%) and Baby Boomers (2%). Those who obtained their licences before the theory test was introduced in July 1996 were particularly likely to fall short, with 98% failing. Among those who had taken the theory test as part of their qualification, the failure rate was slightly lower at 92%.
Matt Pernet, head of motor insurance at Direct Line, commented:
“The Highway Code covers safe and responsible driving behaviour on UK roads, and it is not just new drivers that need to know what is included. Staying up to date with the rules is vital, especially when changes are made which relate to right-of-way and road signs.
These findings are a stark reminder that many people are not keeping up to date with the latest rules and should serve as a wake-up call to encourage all drivers to regularly refresh their knowledge.”
The theory test was brought in across Great Britain on 1 July 1996. Before then, learner drivers only had to pass the practical assessment. At present, candidates must score 86% to pass – the equivalent of 43 correct answers out of 50. In the Direct Line study, participants were required to answer 13 out of 15 questions correctly to meet the same standard.