Learner Driver Spends £2,944 To Fail Theory Test 128 Times

Figures released by the AA Driving School this week reveal one learner has spent £2,944 taking their theory test 128 times – failing every time.

This is quite remarkable because it’s not like the DVLA has an infinite pool of questions; if you do the test 128 times you’re probably seeing the same questions over and over again, and yet this person still has not managed to pass after spending nearly £3,000.

Each attempt at the theory test – which must be passed before booking a practical exam – costs £23. If I remember correctly, it’s mostly multiple choice questions and then a p1ss-easy hazard perception video which you can basically complete by clicking on the screen every so often.

The figures – obtained following a freedom of information request to the Driver and Vehicle Standards Agency (DVSA) – also revealed that another person passed the exam at the 75th attempt, which cost them more than £1,700 in total.

Surely if you’re having that much difficulty with the theory exam, then the practical exam itself will be near-impossible?

Indeed, the data also revealed that the record number of attempts taken before passing the practical was 21. That would have cost between £1,302 and £1,575!

Two other people have taken the practical test 37 times without passing, spending up to £2,220 each. But at least they’re on course for a new record when/if one of them does pass.

Meanwhile, pass rates for the theory and practical tests in the 2024/25 financial year were 44.9% and 48.7% respectively.

Emma Bush, managing director at AA Driving School, said revision was the “the key to success” in the theory test.

She said: “It is easy to underestimate the level of knowledge required to pass the theory test.”

Well, I’m not sure about that. If you’re taking the theory test 128 times without passing, then you’re probably not the brightest spark plug in the engine. Of course, they could have learning difficulties; dyslexia, low IQ and so on. But then if you’re unable to answer questions on a computer in a slow, controlled environment – how quickly and safely are you realistically able to make rapid decisions on the road?

Well anyway, best of luck to this mystery person and here’s hoping they knock it out the park next time. It’s a good job there’s no limit to the number of tests you can take, isn’t it?

For the man who drove over a dock and into a canal 10 minutes after passing his driving test, click HERE.