One Driver Has Taken 128 Tests and Still Cannot Obtain a License | Carscoops

      Some drivers in the UK are failing their tests multiple times, spending significant amounts of money, and highlighting the difficulties of Britain’s driving exams.

      On November 15, 2025, it was reported that one learner driver failed their theory test 128 times without achieving a passing score. Another individual invested $2,265 and attempted the test 75 times before finally succeeding. Additionally, there is a case of a person who needed 43 attempts to pass the practical driving test.

      The common saying, "If at first you don’t succeed, try again," is taken to heart by some learner drivers in the UK. According to the Automobile Association (AA), one individual has failed their theory test 128 times, which is an astonishing figure, and they have spent at least £2,944 ($3,866) in the process.

      Moreover, the AA pointed out that another learner passed their theory test on the 75th attempt in 2024, having spent £1,725 ($2,265) on tests and over 90 hours in the examination room, as each test costs £23 ($30).

      These statistics were revealed following a freedom of information request, which also indicated that several individuals had to attempt the practical driving test numerous times before succeeding. Two people took the practical test 37 times without passing, while another eventually passed after 43 attempts.

      Practical test fees can accumulate quickly; the AA noted that tests cost £60 ($79) on weekdays and £75 ($98) during weekends and evenings. Therefore, for 43 tests, the costs would range from £2,580 ($3,388) to £3,225 ($4,235).

      Emma Bush, managing director of the AA Driving School, commented that “there are many reasons someone might struggle with the theory test, leading to multiple attempts.” However, she emphasized that a high number of attempts is not the norm. She also mentioned that “it’s easy to underestimate the amount of knowledge needed to pass the theory test,” which includes topics such as road signs, stopping distances, and hazard perception.

      The theory test, introduced in 1996, consists of two sections: the first includes 50 multiple-choice questions based on the Highway Code, whereas the second is the Hazard Perception test, where candidates identify hazards in videos. To pass the first part, learners must answer 43 out of 50 questions correctly, and for the Hazard Perception test, they need to score 44 out of 75. After this, they can book their practical driving test.

      Not surprisingly, the organization has used these insights to promote their AA Driving School Theory Test app, which is available for £4.99 ($6.55) to unlock fully.

      Sources: AA, BBC News