According to new analysis by the RAC Foundation more than a sixth of jobs in the UK require applicants to be able to drive.
This goes to show that a driving licence is also “a crucial qualification” as almost 190,000 out of 1.1 million jobs posted on Adzuna in October 2023 found a licence was required.
However, according to research from RED Driver Training last year, 1.3 million people took the theory test, with over 590,000 (45%) managing to pass.
Since 2007, the theory pass rate has steadily declined with 65% likely to pass in 2007 compared to just 45% last year. The research found that more people are passing their GCSE maths exam than passing their theory test.
Steve Gooding, director of the RAC Foundation, said, “Our research shows that a driving licence can be a crucial qualification.
“Little wonder official figures show that about 45% of all driving tests conducted during 2022/23 involved candidates aged 20 or younger.
“Many job ads which list a driving requirement are in relatively poorly-paid sectors, such as the caring profession.
“This is something the Chancellor should have in mind when making decisions that influence the cost of motoring and impact on those who are already struggling to pay for transport they can’t do without.”
Seb Goldin, CEO of RED Driver Training, remarked, “Mastering the theory test is one of the first challenges for learner drivers, and our goal is to turn it into a positive and rewarding milestone rather than a daunting task. Our focus revolves around empowering learners to excel and feel safe on the roads, emphasising the importance of understanding rules and acing the theory test.
“We want to see an increase in first-time theory test successes, steering away from the approach of attempting to ‘wing it.’ That’s why we’ve developed an easily accessible trainer app to support new drivers at every moment of their learner-journey.”
