Driver testing and education

We surveyed 2,010 car drivers about driver testing and education. The survey was carried out in May 2023 by independent market research company, SurveyGoo.

Key findings

• 63% of drivers would support a phased licensing system for young and newly qualified drivers
• One in 10 drivers don't think they could pass a UK driving practical test
• 81% think learner drivers should be required to have motorway driving practice before they pass their test
• 83% think all drivers should be required by law to have their sight tested by an optician on a regular basis

The report explores the different types and levels of post-test learning: how did we learn to drive and how long ago was it? It then challenges us all to keep our skills and knowledge up to date before asking the question: How can we keep our young and newly qualified drivers safe?

There is clearly a public appetite for change when it comes to driver education, testing and lifelong learning. From the findings of this report, we urge the Government to convene a high-level, strategic review of driver education, testing and licensing, in particular looking at ways to safeguard those who are more susceptible to being injured or killed in a road crash.

Recommendations from the survey report include a progressive licensing system to safeguard young and novice drivers, regular mandatory sight testing, and clearer signage to indicate speed limits in place of the national speed limit sign.