67% of drivers believe they would pass their test now

Date: 15/8/2012

The driving test is something that many people struggle with, but once they have passed they do not need to worry about it again.

With this in mind, GEM Motoring Assist carried out a survey to find out how many motorists believe they would pass their driving test if they were required to take it again now.

In total, 67 per cent of respondents said they feel confident they would pass first time, though many are less confident when it comes to the theory aspect.

Of those questioned, 35 per cent said they know the Highway Code as well now as when they sat their test.

Less than 50 per cent of drivers said they thought they would pass their theory test if they sat it now with 41 per cent being unsure. 

The Highway Code is updated periodically and it is up to motorists to ensure they are aware of any changes and that they keep their knowledge in line with current rules of the road.

It is not required that drivers retake their test however, so many continue on the roads for decades without the impetus to update their knowledge.

David Williams MBE, CEO of GEM Motoring Assist, said: "A lack of knowledge of the Highway Code could lead to a serious accident so we do urge drivers to keep as up to date as possible."

Many people believe that once passing a driving test the motorist becomes to feel more relaxed on the road and starts to pick up bad habits.

The biggest challenge for most drivers if they had to sit their test again would be parking according to the poll which found that 26 per cent of people would find this hardest.

This was followed by reversing and city centre driving, though 74 per cent of people said they would be less nervous to sit the test than when they originally passed.

Mr Williams said: "It’s great to see that, as a nation, we are very confident in our driving ability. It would certainly be a worry to have motorists on our roads who believe their driving has got worse."

Posted by Sarah Bailey

Transport Research News and Vehicle Safety News