Last year, the driving test introduced some of the first major changes in years. The changes included an increase in the independent driving, along with the introduction of following sat-nav instructions and more. Following the major changes, the DVSA (the Driving and Vehicle Standards Agency) has released their stats for 2018 – including pass rates. For all learners who have an upcoming driving test, we’re going to offer advice based off this year’s statistics.

Has the driving test got harder?

Despite the pass rate falling to 45.5% from 46.8% in 2017, the pass rate has hovered at the same mark for the past 10 years. Mark Winn, the DVSA chief driving examiner says, “the driving test was changed to make sure new drivers have the skills they need to help them through a lifetime of safe driving – not to make it harder.” Our advice is not to fret about the driving test being harder or easier. The best thing you can do is prepare yourself. Get to know the format and take a mock test with your instructor and you’ll be fine!

Can my location affect the outcome of the driving test?

We’ve previously touched on how the location of your driving test can affect your pass rate. However, this year’s statistics show that London appears to be the worst place to take your driving test. Suggesting that perhaps the driving test is easier to take in the countryside. But driving in the countryside can have the same difficulties. Such as narrow country roads and blind corners. Even if the pass rate in your local area is bad, that’s most likely where you’ll be driving around in the future. However, it’s still important to get out there and experience different roads and scenarios. You could explore other road types and locations in your own time by practising your driving privately. Get an insurance quote in just 30 seconds for your private practice here

What are the main reasons for failure of the driving test?

For the past 10 years, the top reasons for failure of the driving test has been incorrectly observing traffic at junctions. Followed by failure to use mirrors properly. Here’s the top 10 reasons:

How to avoid failing the driving test

According to the DVSA’s stats, most people fail their test the first time round. Don’t put too much pressure on yourself to pass first time! We’ve already listed the top 10 reasons for failing. Just make sure you try to avoid those mistakes. We advise lots of private practice outside of driving lessons along with a mock driving test beforehand! For more of our tips on tackling the top reasons for failing, click here

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The driving test can be stressful for many. The main thing to remember is that failing isn’t the end of the road. Learning to drive is not completely about passing your driving test but passing it as a safe driver. Remember, InsureLearnerDriver has cost effective insurance products to help you get the practice in before the big day. Click here to get a learner insurance quick quote For more tips on staying safe on the roads, or for regular driving test tips, follow us on social media: InsureLearnerDriver Facebook | InsureLearnerDriver Twitter | InsureLearnerDriver Instagram Or if you have any other questions, visit our FAQ page or contact info@insurelearnerdriver.co.uk