Almost a third of Britons have called for learner drivers who cheat in their tests to be hauled before the courts, according to new research.
A recent survey found 31 per cent of Britons believe anyone caught trying to cheat their driving test should face criminal prosecution.
Even more (38 per cent) said offenders should have their licences suspended, while 12 per cent backed a lifetime driving ban for those who try to fraudulently pass.
Smaller numbers supported lighter punishments, with nine per cent favouring fines and another nine per cent saying penalty points would be enough.
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Under current rules, drivers caught cheating can already face serious consequences, including driving bans and even prison sentences.
The findings follow figures from the DVSA, which show a sharp rise in cheating, with attempts to beat the system surging by 47 per cent in the past year.
Experts stated that a tougher testing system and long waiting lists may be driving some learners to take desperate measures.
Pass rates for the theory test have fallen dramatically over the past decade. At the start of the 2010-11 financial year, 63.4 per cent of candidates passed, which plummeted to 44.3 per cent by 2025-26.
The survey highlighted strong support for criminal conviction for Britons caught cheating on driving tests
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Driving test cheaters use tricks, including hiring impersonators to take the test on their behalf, while others hide mobile phones and use Bluetooth earpieces to receive answers.
Motoring specialists warned that drivers who dodge proper training may lack the basic knowledge and awareness needed to stay safe on Britain's roads.
Ian Wilson, car insurance expert and managing director at Tiger.co.uk, said: "It's encouraging to see such strong public support for tough penalties for those who try to cheat on their driving test.
"Drivers who are attempting to bypass proper training aren't just risking their own safety; they're putting other lives in danger, and that's something no one should take lightly.
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DVSA records showed a rise in Brtions cheating on driving tests to get onto roads sooner
| PA"Young drivers are already one of the highest risk groups on our roads. Making sure they're properly trained and tested is absolutely vital."
Official figures from the Department for Transport revealed that in 2024, around one in five people killed or seriously injured in car crashes were involved in a collision with at least one driver aged 17 to 24.
Speeding, reckless driving and aggressive behaviour were among the most common factors in serious collisions involving younger motorists.
The survey found strong public backing for tougher rules for new drivers, with a striking 83 per cent of respondents stating that learners should complete a minimum three-month training period before being allowed to drive independently.
New driving test measures are being introduced at the end of March | PASupporters said extended supervised practice gives learners time to build confidence, develop safe habits and understand how to deal with real-life hazards.
Mr Wilson said the rise in cheating attempts showed why firm action would be needed.
He said: "These latest figures underline the importance of proper training and robust testing. Cutting corners behind the wheel can have devastating consequences."