UK Driving Test Pass Rates — By Test Centre and Age | Reliant
UK driving test
pass rates 2026
The national average pass rate is around 48%. Find out how pass rates vary by test centre, age group, and gender — and how to improve your chances.
Pass rate FAQs
What is the UK driving test pass rate?
The national average pass rate for the UK practical driving test is approximately 48%. This means roughly half of all candidates pass on their first attempt. Pass rates vary significantly by test centre, age, and gender.
Which age group has the highest driving test pass rate?
Older learners (25–34) tend to have higher pass rates than teenagers. The 17–20 age group has the lowest average pass rate at around 43–45%, while the 25–34 group averages around 52–55%.
Do men or women have a higher driving test pass rate?
Men have a slightly higher overall pass rate than women — approximately 51% vs 45%. However, this gap has been narrowing in recent years.
Which test centres have the highest pass rates?
Rural test centres typically have higher pass rates than urban ones. Test centres in areas with less complex road systems and lighter traffic tend to see higher pass rates. Your local instructor will know the best centres in your area.
Which test centres have the lowest pass rates?
Urban test centres in London, Birmingham, and other major cities tend to have lower pass rates due to complex road systems, heavy traffic, and more challenging driving conditions.
How many times does the average person take their driving test?
Most people pass within 2–3 attempts. Around 48% pass first time. Around 75% pass within 2 attempts. Very few people need more than 4 attempts.
How can I improve my chances of passing?
Take enough lessons (the DVSA average is 45 hours), do at least one full mock test, practise on the roads around your test centre, and choose an instructor with a strong local pass rate.
Give yourself the best chance of passing
Find a DVSA-approved instructor with a strong local pass rate. Search by postcode — one-off £19.95 fee.
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