What's the Average Number of Attempts It Takes to Pass the UK Driving Theory Test?

If you are preparing to take the UK driving theory test, you may have a question about how many attempts it might take to finally pass the test. The theory test is the first hurdle all new drivers must clear on their driving license journey. While you see it as easy, passing this test might not be as simple as you think. You need to have a good amount of practice and must be able to learn and understand all the road rules, traffic signs, and safe driving practices. Here’s a guide on how many attempts it takes for you to pass the theory test so that you can practice and prepare effectively. 

What does the UK theory test involve?

The UK driving theory test is conducted to assess new and aspiring drivers’ knowledge of the rules of the road and safe driving practices followed in the UK. The test has two parts: a multiple-choice section and a hazard perception section. You must pass both to move on to the practical driving test. The multiple-choice section comprises 50 questions, and you must score at least 43 correct answers to pass. The hazard perception part involves watching 14 video clips and identifying developing hazard situations. To pass this section, you must score at least 44 marks. 

How many attempts does it take?

Most people pass the test within 2–3 attempts. However, for some people, it might take a few more attempts to pass it. Most of the standard drivers were able to pass on their 5th attempt. Some people have taken 6 to 12 attempts to pass. The test would not be easy for everyone. Some people may find it difficult due to several reasons. The DVSA (Driver and Vehicle Standards Agency) offers unlimited times of attempts for all new drivers to take the test until they pass. 

Statistics from 2019/20 reveal that the pass rate for the theory test was 47.7%. This shows that more than half of the candidates were unable to pass on their first try. Some learners might breeze through on their first try and require a reattempt to pass the test. A significant number of candidates take between five and twelve attempts before finally achieving the pass score. However, it is completely normal and not unusual to retake your theory test. It is important to note that, if you have taken good practice and preparation before the test, it will be easy for you to score the test. 

Failing the test is primarily due to a lack of practice and preparation. If you have not prepared better, it will take many attempts for you to pass. With good practice, you can tackle this easily. Start your preparation with the best companion for your study, the DVSA Theory Test Practice. Our driving theory test practice is designed just like the real exam, giving you a real exam experience with real exam questions. 

What is the impact of failing the test?

Financial Impact: The significant impact of failing the test is financial impact. You must pay £23 for each retake, and multiple attempts can quickly add up. If you are taking more than five attempts, the cost can exceed £100. This amount increases as you attempt the test many times. 

Affects your Confidence: Another impact is killing your confidence. Failing the test may be disheartening, and repeated failures can lead to anxiety about future tests. This can affect your confidence. 

These impacts underscore the importance of thorough preparation before taking the theory test. 

Tips for Passing the Theory Test

To improve your chances of passing on the first try or as early as possible, consider the following tips: 

Understand the Problem: Many learners find the pressure of test conditions affecting their performance. For some, it is a lack of adequate preparation, and for some, studying at the last minute and not taking the test seriously are reasons to fail the test. Understand the reason for your failure and start strategizing your preparation. 

Start Early: Start your preparation at the earliest so that you will have sufficient time to go through the handbook and use different materials to prepare. 

Study the Handbook: Go through the Highway Code to learn all the road rules, traffic signs, and safe driving practices that are used to prepare questions on the theory test. A thorough preparation involves a thorough learning of the handbook. 

Use Practice Tests: Practice tests are one effective way to prepare for the theory test. Use our DVSA theory test practice to prepare better with questions based on the Highway Code Handbook. We cover all the necessary topics on our practice test and provide various features to aid your learning and preparation. Taking our driving theory test practice also helps you understand the format of the theory test. This reduces surprises on your exam and makes you feel more confident while taking the test. 

Manage Test-Day Nerves: On your test day, stay calm for a stress-free exam experience. Arrive early, settle down on your slots early, and revise and review key concepts. These can help you manage anxiety. 

Passing the UK driving theory test can be challenging, and it is not uncommon to retake more than one attempt. Whether you pass on your first try or need several attempts, preparation is the key. Therefore, prepare and practice as many times as possible before taking the test. Do not let failure kill your confidence. Remember, with good practice and preparation, you can pass the theory test easily.