Wolverhampton test centre one of the hardest places in UK to pass driving test

Figures from the Driver and Vehicle Standards Agency (DVSA) show just 38 per cent of all learners passed their practical test between April and September 2017.

The average pass rate for test centres across Great Britain was 47 per cent, with the highest pass rate in Golspie, in the Scottish Highlands, where 79 per cent of new drivers successfully received their licences.

Overall built up urban areas tended to have lower pass rates, while at quieter rural test centres learners appeared to find the exam easier. The toughest place to pass was Erith, in south east London, where under a third of drivers got their licences.

The Wolverhampton centre conducted 3,896 tests over six months and 1,478 people passed.

Historically men have generally paid more for car insurance than women as they have more accidents. But the figures show they have a higher pass rate for the driving test.

At Wolverhampton 43 per cent gained their licence compared to 34 per cent of women.

And tests are likely to get more difficult to pass.

These statistics are from before the test was changed on December 4 last year, with many observers saying the reformed test is tougher than the old one.

Learners now must navigate for 20 minutes using a sat-nav, and explain how to test the brakes, clean the windscreen and demist your windows while driving.

DVSA chief driving examiner, Lesley Young said: “All candidates are assessed to the same level and the result of their test is entirely dependent on their performance on the day.”