Refund on passing your Driving Test first time?

Good News for Learner Drivers!
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The Department for Transport (DfT) have been trying for some time to find a method of increasing the first time pass rate, which currently stands at only 21%.

​This is in an effort to encourage the learner to prepare better before attempting their driving test.

Safer Driver


The Department for Transport are discussing the change to deter pupils from rushing into their driving test before they are completely ready. With the number of motorists on the road continually increasing, it is thought that something needs to be done in order for each new driver to be better equipped on the road.


Transport secretary, Patrick McLoughlin, has backed this proposition saying that there should be an incentive for leaners to be “more prepared before they take their test.” It is agreed by many people that there should be a reward for any learner who passes first time.


At present, you can conveniently book your driving test on evening and weekends, however, increasing the availability of driving tests during these times has been discussed to allow students who work during the week to be able to take their test without needing to take time off work.


According to Transport Psychologist Shaun Helman at TRL, the older the driver is when they pass, the safer they usually are. Transport Minister Lord Tariq Ahmad has said this change could improve road safetly, in particular for younger drivers and could also modernise customer service.


The current test fees (dated 16/11/2015) are £62, with an increased cost of £75 for evenings and weekends. It has yet to be mentioned how much the refund may be, however, this could be a deposit paid that the student receives back if they pass their test first time. The consultation will close on the 8th of January with The Department for Transport commenting later on this year.


As a result of this, a few members of the driving community have suggested that insurance prices may go down slightly for drivers due to this proposal making potentially better prepared and safer drivers.


We shall keep you updated with any developments.


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