Why is it so tough?
At Always Pass we’re all about empowering young drivers to pass their test and drive safely. When the older drivers passed their driving tests you may feel they had it easy, without the theory and hazard perception tests all they had to concentrate on was the practical test.
Why have we made it harder for people to pass?
There were fewer cars on the roads in the past. The authorities don’t want to stop young people from driving, but things have changed. Way back in 1950 there were 4 million licenced vehicles on the UKs roads (from the Department of Transport). At the beginning of 2025 there were 41.7 million licenced vehicles, so you can see how much busier the roads are now! This increase has bought more challenges for new drivers, so it makes sense to change the tests to reflect this.
Road Safety
Sadly over 1,500 young drivers are killed or seriously injured on UK roads every year, and we’d love to reduce this number. Young people are more likely to take risks. This is because when we go from being children to adults our brains go through a process of remodelling. Our brains are still in this process until we reach our mid-twenties. This can increase risk taking and impulsive behaviour, which is never useful when you’re behind the wheel. It can mean that young people don’t think some behaviours, like speeding, are dangerous.
Experience
Another reason young people are more likely to have an accident on the road is a lack of experience. This means they don’t always identify hazards quickly. They might be concentrating on using the gears or steering instead of spotting a developing hazard. This is why the hazard perception test was introduced in November 2002. Practicing for this test will give you a chance to concentrate on the video clips to help you to predict a hazard, without having to worry about controlling the car. This buildings some experience as well as testing that you can predict a developing hazard.
Don’t be put off driving because of the statistics, or the amount of tests you’ll need to pass. You have the power to change statistics – you have to be the change you want to see. So if you’re a young driver be aware of the pit falls and make sure that you don’t speed, and are always paying attention to the road. We can help you to pass your tests, just take them one step at a time. If you put the effort in you’ll be a safe driver on the road.
We’d love to teach you to drive!
Would you like some lessons? We have experienced, friendly driving instructors to help you. Please complete the form if you’d like to know more or book some lessons.