UK’s best and worst places to take your driving test

Learner drivers in Birmingham have been warned they face the most difficult task in passing their test as less than a third of candidates in the city are successful first time out. 

Driving lessons and tests are currently suspended due to the ongoing Covid-19 lockdown, but thousands of Britons are looking at learning the vital skill, especially as social distancing rules are likely to last for several months. 

However, data supplied by the Driver and Vehicle Standards Agency (DVSA)  has shown the massive variation in pass rates across the country’s 324 driving test centres. 

Travelling to a neighbouring test centre can dramatically increase the chance of success as the pass rate in Erith is just 32.3 per cent, while over in Brentwood, on the other side of the River Thames, it increases to 55 per cent

Learner drivers face a significantly better chance of passing their tests if they choose a rural testing centre and avoid built up towns and cities, according to new figures 

According to the most recent figures, which have been compiled by insurance company Go Compare, Llandrindod Wells in Powys is the best place to attempt the driving test, with a first time pass rate of 76.3 per cent. 

Motorists in one Birmingham test centre have a first time pass rate of 29.3 per cent. 

According to analysts at the insurance company, ‘Scotland, Wales, Northumberland and Yorkshire have the highest pass rates. 

‘Although the DVSA (Driver Vehicle and Standards Agency) tries to maintain consistency across driving test centres, small towns can be easier to navigate. Fewer roundabouts, less congestion and fewer built-up areas mean you’re more likely to have a smoother driving test and therefore pass.’ 

Yet, in London, which features among the worst places to sit your test, the pass rate varies widely, with a 55 per cent pass rate in Brentwood, falling to 32.3 per cent in Erith.  

The UK Driving Test report compiled by GoCompare found that on average drivers spend £647 and take 22 lessons to secure the freedom of the roads on the first time of asking. 

Those who need multiple attempts can spend thousands of pounds, so determining ‘a friendly driving test centre’ can save significant money.  

GoCompare’s driving expert Matt Oliver said: ‘Preparation is always the key when it comes to tackling any challenge. But there’s no harm in looking at extra ways to boost your chances, and choosing a quieter route can keep your nerves at a minimum.

‘The most common reason for failure in driving tests is responding incorrectly at lights. At busy junctions, it’s easy to lose your concentration when surrounded by different distractions – choosing a quieter location is a good way to limit this risk. 

‘To make sure you’re prepared, try to practise in a variety of conditions. Once you’ve chosen your test centre, drive the routes as often as possible, so you can get used to the trickier roads.’