The number of drivers who cheated on their theory tests has more than tripled in the past two years as more motorists rushed to get their licence.
A total of 1,652 incidents of cheating were reported from theory test centres in 2022 compared to 568 in 2021, while between 2022 and 2023, 625 people were investigated for cheating. This resulted in 46 prosecutions for theory test fraud.
The large number of drivers who use impersonators to cheat could see them banned from driving, ordered to carry out unpaid work or made to pay court costs.
To pass a theory test, drivers have to pass both the multiple-choice section and get at least 43 out of 50 questions correct as well as pass the hazard perception test scoring 44 out of 75.
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Fraud cases of theory test cheating more than tripled
PAHowever, due to the coronavirus pandemic, a backlog of six weeks remains for drivers looking to book their practical test.
Drivers must complete their theory test before being able to sit the practice exam, incentivising drivers to pass their tests as soon as possible.
Camilla Benitz, managing director at the AA Driving School, said: “The jump in reports of theory test fraud is alarming, but indicates the lengths people will go to secure that all important pass.
“The increase in cheating coincides with the waiting times for booking a driving test shooting up massively as well as the pass rate for the theory test remaining stubbornly low at just 45.5 per cent.”
Louise Thomas, motoring expert at Confused.com, stated that theory tests are just as important as the practical driving test.
Learner drivers are tested on their knowledge of the Highway Code from road signs, legal requirements and hazard perception.
This helps to prepare for real-life situations when finally getting on the road, although Thomas warned that cheaters are putting themselves and other drivers at risk.
This could lead to them receiving points on their licence, in addition to driving fines for not driving in the correct manner.
If new drivers receive six points or more within two years of passing their test, they could also get a driving ban.
Thomas added: “So while backlogs can be frustrating, the consequences of not waiting can be damaging."
Young adults must have a valid provisional driving licence before they can start driving lessons and get behind the wheel.
However, those who want to begin lessons as soon as they turn 17 can apply for a provisional licence from the age of 15 years and nine months.
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Motorists can apply for a provisional when they are under 16
PACurrently, there are around 200 theory test centres across the UK with a test centre available in almost all major cities.