Could you pass? Only 2% of Brits would pass a theory test today

How much do British drivers really know about the rules of the road? According to our latest survey, the answer might make you think twice before stepping out onto a zebra crossing.

Our nationally representative survey tested participants with official DVSA theory questions to determine if they could pass the test today. The results revealed that only 2% of Brits would achieve a passing score. Using the data gathered from our survey results, we can reveal some surprising, and at times alarming, gaps in road knowledge.

Missing the mark

In the UK, passing the car theory test requires a score of at least 43 out of 50, equivalent to 86%. However, our survey revealed that the average Brit scored just 31 out of 50—a disappointing 62%. This means most participants fell far short of the passing mark, with a whopping 38% of questions being answered incorrectly.

Stop signs are octagonal - Who knew?

Shockingly, the most-failed question—answered correctly by only 16% of respondents—was identifying the shape of a stop sign, despite it being one of the most universally recognised road signs.

Just a third (36%) of participants were aware that street lighting typically indicates a 30 mph speed limit when no signs are present.

Things didn’t get much better when it came to car safety. Only a quarter (28%) understood that holding down the clutch pedal or rolling in neutral for too long reduces control of the vehicle. Underinflated tyres, which increase stopping distances, were another mystery for many, with only 38% correctly identifying this risk. Even something as simple as the national speed limit for a car or motorcycle on a motorway stumped 43% of drivers.

Biggest fails

Following the most-missed question about the shape of a stop sign, Brits also struggled with basic safety and road awareness. Questions about when you can drive without a seatbelt and the colour of reflective road markings on motorways stumped the majority (81%) of respondents, highlighting further areas of confusion.

Questions drivers struggled with

Another concerning finding from the survey, particularly in the winter months, is that only a third (33%) of Brits know how to drive safely on icy roads. A staggering 66% are unaware of how to prevent wheelspin on slick surfaces, putting themselves and others at greater risk during hazardous conditions.

Crisis-ready? Brits shine in emergency scenarios

It wasn’t all bad news. When it came to critical safety and emergency questions, drivers performed significantly better. An impressive 92% of participants knew what to do when assisting an unconscious person at the scene of an accident.

Although 85% of drivers correctly answered the question about using fog lights on a well-lit motorway, they performed even better in broader traffic scenarios. An impressive 89% knew that when traffic lights are out of order, vehicles turning right do not have priority.

These results suggest that while Brits are confident in responding to high-stakes or hazardous moments, their grasp of everyday road safety—such as identifying signs and following speed limits—still needs significant improvement. Emergency knowledge is crucial, but proactive road awareness is just as vital to prevent those emergencies in the first place.

Gen X and Baby Boomers lead the knowledge race

Generational differences were stark. Drivers aged 45 and older, including Generation X and Baby Boomers, made up 76% of those who passed the test, showing that older generations may have retained more of their original driver training. In contrast, younger drivers struggled significantly, suggesting modern driver education might need a refresh.

Gender disparities were also evident. Of those who passed, only 28% were female compared to 72% male.

Tips for brushing up on your driving knowledge

If this survey has you wondering how you’d fare on a driving theory test today, don’t worry—there’s always room for improvement! Here are some tips to help you stay sharp and confident on the road:

• Take Practice Tests: Online theory test simulators and apps can help you spot knowledge gaps. You can find a theory test simulator on the Gov.uk website.
• Review the Highway Code: Stay familiar with key rules and road signs.
• Learn Car Basics: Brush up on simple maintenance like tyre checks and fuel efficiency tips.
• Use Learning Apps: Apps make it easy to review traffic laws and driving tips on the go.
• Stay Updated: Keep track of new road laws and driving regulations.\

Conclusion: Room for improvement

The results of our survey paint a mixed picture of British drivers' road knowledge. While it’s reassuring to see that most drivers are well-prepared for emergencies, the significant gaps in everyday road safety awareness are cause for concern. From misunderstanding speed limits to struggling with basic traffic sign recognition, it’s clear that many of us could benefit from brushing up on the rules of the road.

Whether you’re a seasoned driver or recently passed your test, staying informed is essential for ensuring the safety of everyone on the road. By revisiting the Highway Code, taking practice tests, and refreshing our understanding of car safety and maintenance, we can all contribute to making our roads safer.