The first step on the way to getting your license is a multiple-choice theory test, and one driver has reportedly failed 128 times.
A driver has reportedly sat – and failed – their L-plate theory test 128 times, topping a new list of poor-performing learner's permit applications published in the UK.
A report compiled by the UK’s Automobile Association (AA) Driving School, and published by the BBC, reveals that for some, the challenge is far greater than for others.
Another sat the test 75 times before succeeding, while a third driver got there after 43 attempts. Two other drivers sat the test 37 times before getting a passing grade.
The learner driver theory test in the UK comprises 50 questions, plus a video exam to identify road hazards. Failing at the first part means drivers are unable to advance to a practical test that assesses vehicle control and driving ability.
According to the AA, each theory test costs £23 ($AU46), so 128 attempts would be a £2944 ($AU5900) endeavour.
As with licensing guidelines in Australia, there is no maximum number of attempts an individual can make. Drivers may sit the test as many times as they need, until they pass.
AA figures reveal that in the UK, 2.8 million theory tests were undertaken – with a 44.9 per cent pass rate – from March 2024 to March 2025.
Over the same period, 1.8 million practical tests were conducted, with a 48.7 per cent pass rate.
Each practical exam costs £62 ($125) on weekdays and £75 ($151) on weekends, so the cost of taking multiple driving tests can quickly add up.
The figures released by the AA don't reveal how many of the tests were carried out by repeat applicants.
For UK drivers, the tricky part can be the availability of booking a repeat test.
The AA reveals that several areas of the UK face a six-month wait to book a driving test, meaning failing once could see drivers forced to wait months before getting another attempt.
Kez Casey migrated from behind spare parts counters to writing about cars over ten years ago. Raised by a family of automotive workers, Kez grew up in workshops and panel shops before making the switch to reviews and road tests for The Motor Report, Drive and CarAdvice.
