Male candidates have consistently achieved a higher pass rate on the Category B (car) practical driving test in GB than female candidates. Similarly, female candidates have passed the theory component of the test at a higher rate than males. This study took a mixed methods approach to understanding these and other inequalities in the car driving test, with the goal of improving test fairness. Existing DVSA data was analysed, a short literature review was undertaken, and interviews were held with examiners, instructors, learners and recent test passers.
The data analysis confirmed the findings observed in headline figures regarding gender and showed several other factors associated with higher and lower pass rates on the practical and/or theory tests; these included: age, taking the test with an automatic transmission vehicle, ethnicity, health conditions, needing special requirements to accommodate a disability, and region of the country.
The literature showed that there are several other countries with similar differences in gender pass rates for components of the driving test, and outlined several key areas in which genders may differ for discussion in the interviews (for example confidence, cognitive spatial abilities, stereotype threat).
The interviews began as unprompted discussions around the testing process, and what factors can make a difference on whether candidates pass or fail. The discussion then moved to discuss different demographic groups, and some specific prompted discussion on gender differences. There was a consensus that the higher female pass rate in the theory test reflects the greater preparation of females than males. Four hypotheses were proposed for the male pass rate being higher than the female pass rate in the practical test; these were that males are better prepared, their higher confidence gives them an advantage, they are less affected by stress, and less affected by the actions of the examiner.
Several considerations were suggested for both further research and for future changes that could help improve equality, both related to gender, and to other factors.
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