Book Theory Test Today examines how the economic recovery has prompted an increase in learner drivers for the first time since 2008.
The road to getting a driving licence for learner drivers is expensive as it is, there’s paying for your provisional licence, your theory test, driving lessons, the practical driving test and a whole host of other expenses.
So, it should come as no surprise that the recent economic recession in the UK led to a decline in the number of learner drivers on Britain’s roads
The expense associated with driving became a luxury that some people could no longer afford. But, there’s good news, the trend appears to have altered. Official figures show that the number of learner drivers has increased for the first time in six years. The figures indicate that learner motorists now feel ‘wealthy’ enough to take lessons and own a car.
Learner Driver Numbers
Book Theory Test Today says: “The official figures show that between April 2013 & March 2014 close to one and half million (1,477,585) car practical tests were taken across Britain. This represents a 2.9 per cent increase compared with the previous six years, which all show a decline.â€
In a statement from experts within the Driver and Vehicle Standards Agency (DVSA), they said: “The figures may point towards an increase in confidence due to the stabilisation of the economy.â€
Every year since 2007/2008, car theory test and practical exams taken had declined significantly. For practical exams in particular, there was a total reduction of 16 per cent over a six year period.
However, new figures show that car theory tests taken have risen by 23.9 per cent since 2007/2008 with 1,541,896 taken between April 2013 & March 2014. It is worth noting though that this surge could be due to re-sits taken, following changes to theory test questions that occurred in January 2013.
What the Experts Say on Learner Drivers
A DVSA statement said: “The economic recession from 2008 may have discouraged some people from taking a theory test or practical exam. However during the latest financial year there have been increases in test volumes … this comes at a time when economic indicators are improving.â€
Head of policy at the AA, Paul Watters, said: The figures could reflect ‘pent up demand’ for driving theory tests and practical exams from drivers who have held back from taking their tests during years of austerity.â€
He added: “Maybe it is a sign that the economy is recovering, people have held back and are now starting to take tests again. In a lot of professions having a driving licence is crucialâ€
Reports prior to this latest release have already indicated that the economic recovery is responsible for an increase in traffic volume, with a significant increase in the number of white vans largely responsible.
The report also touched on birth rates, referring to the early 1990s when birth rates were in decline, and meaning that there are now fewer people in the 17-20 age bracket. This is deemed to be the peak age for taking a theory test or practical exam, so the rise in test numbers this year has come as somewhat of a surprise.
Learner Drivers – Contact Book Theory Test Today
Book Theory Test Today offers an intermediary service assisting clients with booking a UK theory test, or practical test, at test centres across the nation. The service also supplies resources to help you prepare for your theory test – Ready to take your theory test? Book your theory test online today…
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