Plans for first-time driving test passes to get refunds 

The Department for Transport has proposed the idea that those who pass their driving test first time should be refunded

The intention is to raise the first-time pass rate, which currently stands at 21%, whereas 53% of participants fail and 26% are on at least their second attempt. Learner drivers currently have to pay £62 to take a driving test during the day, which rises to £75 if the test goes ahead at the weekend or during the evenings.  It is hoped that the rebate will act as an incentive for hopefuls to come prepared to their driving test.

Should those who pass first time get refunds?

There has been evidence that some learners book their test in advance and proceed even if they don’t consider themselves ready yet. So it is hoped that if learners have an incentive for passing, that they will take their time with their test. Yet, according to the DVSA, a learner needs on average 45 hours of lessons to pass their test. Considering that this can cost in the range of £1000, it can work out even more costly if the learner takes their test prematurely.

The consultation for the new proposal to issue rebates to those who pass their driving test first time said “There is anecdotal evidence that some learner drivers are booking a practical test date well in advance, at the start of their lessons, and then taking the test at that time whether or not they are ready.”

Tips for passing your driving test first time

Some times for passing your driving test include:

1. Take your time

Ensure you’ve had enough lessons and feel confident on the road. Although you may think taking a driving test early will help you bypass the money spent on lessons, in reality if you fail you’ll have to pay for more lessons on top of the driving test any way. According to the DVSA, it takes on average 45 hours of professional tuition and a further 22 hours of private lessons for someone to be proficient enough to take and pass their driving test.

2. Gain knowledge of the area around your test centre

Make sure you have a good knowledge of the area where you will be taking your test beforehand, as it’s never a good start to take your test somewhere you are already unfamiliar with. Look out for roundabouts and complex traffic systems.

3.  Observe and work on common faults

These include failing to check mirrors when carrying out certain manoeuvres such as reverse parking, failing to signal or giving confusing signals, and stalling due to poor clutch control.

4. Make sure you turn up to your driving test prepared  

Ensure you get a good sleep before your test and have eaten something to set you up for the day. Try not to plan anything else for that day; you don’t want to be distracted with thoughts of what else you have to do that day. Ensure you bring the correct documentation to the exam, which includes your driving licence, theory test pass certificate and glasses if you require them for driving.

5. Keep your eyes on the road

Don’t focus on your examiner and don’t attempt to read the notes they are taking as you are driving, you want your full attention to be on the road. 

Once you've passed your driving test, it's time to get your insurance sorted.