RAC calls for higher test fees for repeated fails

A motoring research charity has called for driving test fees to be raised for those who fail multiple times.

The RAC Foundation says this will encourage learners to only take tests when they're ready — something the DVSA has been focused on since the launch of their Ready to Pass? campaign in July 2022.

Driving tests were paused during parts of the COVID-19 pandemic, which led to backlogs that are still being felt to this day.

According to DVSA figures, 93,204 of the car driving tests taken between March 2023 and March 2024 were the candidate's sixth or more attempt.

RAC Foundation director Steve Gooding has urged the government to introduce higher fees for candidates who fail multiple times, as well as a rebate for those who pass first time.

He told the PA news agency: “Forget about all the traffic jams out on the road, there is now an unacceptable amount of congestion in the test system with learners often waiting many months for a slot.

“In part these jams are being caused by people who have failed multiple times and come back to take a test that might be their fourth, fifth or sixth attempt, or even greater.

“An improved pass rate would help drive down the understandable backlog, and if you incentivise people to pass first time there is also a case for adding a modest premium to the test fee for those who have already failed on several occasions.”

Mr Gooding said the figures show that learners “keep throwing themselves back into tests without being properly prepared”.

He went on: “A higher fee might persuade them not to resit their test until they are more likely to pass.

“If you can improve the pass rate, this means more learners avoiding the financial and time costs associated with repeated disappointments at the test centre.”

However, Nicholas Lyes, director of policy and standards at road safety charity IAM RoadSmart, argued that whilst raising fees “might seem reasonable”, the government must be careful about increasing motoring costs.

He added: “Moreover, a looming threat of higher subsequent test costs could be unnecessary pressure we’re adding to somebody’s first test.

“Ultimately, driving instructors in consultation with the learner driver are best placed to decide on when somebody is ready to take their practical test.”