Over 50,000 driving tests are taken each year by a learner who has failed at least five times previously.
The RAC Foundation, a motoring research charity, analysis of the Department of Transport (DfT) found that 50,875 practical tests taken in Britain between March 2021 to March 2022 were taking their test for the sixth time, in some cases more.
Just 40% of these tests would then be passed, compared to the average success rate of 49% of all tests.
This comes whilst learners remain to wait a minimum of at least 15 weeks for a test due to the coronavirus pandemic.
Research showed that of the 50,000 tests, 290 were taken by over 60-year-olds who had failed at least five previous times.
Of these 290 tests, 27% of men and 19% of women passed their driving test.
The DfT also revealed that one in eight tests sees the examiner intervene to avoid a dangerous incident.
Practical driving tests cost between £62 and £75 depending on when they are taken.
RAC Foundation director Steve Gooding said the number of failed tests may provide reassurance to people who suspect it is too easy to get a licence, as “for some learners, that’s clearly far from the case.”
He stated, “One loud and clear message this data reveals is that however hard some people find it to pass their test, becoming a qualified driver is so essential to them that it is worth the money, time and energy involved in battling on to secure their licence.
“Of course, one other conclusion to be drawn from the figures is that driving might not be the thing for some people.”
Meanwhile, more than 50 test centres across the country still have a waiting time of 24 weeks, while the average is 15, according to DVSA statistics released earlier this month.
When looking at pass rate statistics, if you are taking your driving lessons in London, avoid the Erith test centre as it has just a 28% pass rate, the lowest in London.
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