Learner drivers face 'extra charges' if they fail test 'multiple times'

A learner driver has failed a theory test 59 times as drivers face extra charges for failing multiple times. Experts have called for learner drivers to receive a rebate if they pass first time in a major boost for motorists up and down the country.

The RAC Foundation has suggested that learner drivers could be incentivised to only take a test when they are fully prepared. Steve Gooding, director of the RAC Foundation, said: “Unfortunately many learners apply for a test date as soon as they first get behind the wheel and stick with it, ready or not, for fear of a long wait for a replacement if they postpone.

“To break this vicious circle we need some fresh thinking from the next government. Why not offer a fee rebate of some kind for candidates who pass their test first time?" It comes as one driver from Redditch, in thExperts have called for learner drivers to receive a rebate if they pass first time in a major boost for motorists up and down the country.e West Midlands, spent almost £1,400 and around 60 hours trying to pass their driving theory test, PA reported.

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New government figures also show a total of 93,204 UK practical driving tests taken in the year to the end of March, were at least a candidate's sixth attempt to pass. Figures were released as it was revealed that driving test fees could increase for learners who have failed multiple times.

The RAC Foundation said it would encourage them to wait until they were ready to pass, easing the "unacceptable" test backlog, which often forces candidates to wait "many months for a slot". "In part, these jams are being caused by people who have failed multiple times and come back to take a test that might be their fourth, fifth or sixth attempt, or even greater," Mr Gooding said.

"An improved pass rate would help drive down the understandable backlog, and if you incentivise people to pass first time there is also a case for adding a modest premium to the test fee for those who have already failed on several occasions."