If you’re planning to take your driving theory test soon, you might be wondering, is there a better time of year to sit it? Are some months statistically more successful than others?
In this blog, we’ve looked at 17 years of DVSA driving theory test data (2007–2024) to find out which months have the highest and lowest pass rates, and why those patterns might exist. We’ll also briefly cover what the driving theory test involves, and finish with a few useful FAQs to help you prepare.
The driving theory test is a mandatory requirement in the UK before you can book and take your practical driving test. It’s designed to check your understanding of:
The test is computer-based and consists of two parts:
You’ll need to pass both parts in the same sitting to receive your theory test pass certificate, which is valid for two years. The theory test typically lasts just under an hour, and you’ll need to take it at an authorised test centre. Once you’ve passed, you’re eligible to book your practical driving test.
If you fail your theory test, you’ll receive a feedback report showing the areas where you didn’t meet the required score. You can rebook your test immediately but must wait at least three working days before retaking it.
The graph below shows the average pass rate for each month across a 17-year period, where we have analysed theory test pass rates from April 2007 to May 2024. By averaging this over such a long timeframe, this gives a clear picture of seasonal trends and how candidate performance varies depending on the time of year.
February consistently comes out on top with the highest average pass rate across all 17 years.
| Rank | Month | Avg. Pass Rate (%) |
| 1 | February | 56.4% |
| 2 | March | 54.2% |
| 3 | April | 54.1% |
| 4 | August | 53.7% |
There is a 7.7% difference between February and the lowest-performing month, which is a significant gap over such a long time period.
There are a few different reasons as to why February may have the highest average pass rate compared to other months, with quite a noticeable gap from March in second place. A lot of people may begin learning to drive in the new year as part of their new year resolution and after a weeks of learning to drive and revising theory test, they may be ready to take their driving theory test by the time February comes. In addition to this, it is also quite a quiet time of year with fewer people going on holiday, school/university exams are rarely taking place at this time, and a lot of people are getting firmly back into a routine following the Christmas and New Year period.
February 2008 – with a massive 70.5% pass rate.
This was the single highest pass rate in any month over the 17-year span.
Arguably the biggest contributing factor to this specific month having the highest recorded theory test pass rate, is because in 2007, the theory test was updated, in particular, the hazard perception section. This means that by early 2008, it would make sense that those revising for and taking their driving theory test would be more familiar and more accustomed to the new style of theory tests. Around this time is also when digital technology started improving so it is likely that resources and revision methods and materials were more accessible and of a higher quality, therefore improving the pass rate.
On the flip side, some months consistently showed lower success rates, and it’s worth being aware of them:
| Rank | Month | Avg. Pass Rate (%) |
| 1 | December | 48.7% |
| 2 | November | 49.1% |
| 3 | October | 49.7% |
| 4 | June | 49.9% |
As we can see, December is the lowest month, with an average pass rate of 48.7%. This is not too surprising as it is well known that December is quite a hectic month for a lot of people due to the festivities in the build up to the Christmas, as well as end of year pressures at in many workplaces. It is also a busy time within schools/sixth forms and universities as students often have course work deadlines around the end of the first term/semester.
December 2013 – with only 49.4% of candidates passed.
When looking at this month specifically, the DVSA changed a number of questions within the question bank of the driving theory test in January 2013, which will have meant a lot of the revision sources and material may not have been as useful for some of the theory test questions and answers. This was done mainly to avoid questions that could appear in the actual theory test, appearing in practice papers, which could have had an impact of the average pass rate.
If you’re hoping to boost your chances of passing your driving theory test, it might help to consider when you book it — not just how prepared you feel.
February comes out as the best month overall, with a long-term average pass rate of 56.4%, while December tends to lag behind at 48.7%. The difference could be down to focus, time of year, or simple patterns in test prep and booking habits.
Commonly asked questions about the driving theory test
There are 50 multiple-choice questions, and you’ll need at least 43 correct answers to pass.
This section shows video clips of real driving scenarios where you’ll need to identify developing hazards. You must score 44 out of 75 to pass.
No. The DVSA requires all candidates to attend a physical test centre. Online theory tests are being trialled for certain cases but aren’t widely available yet.
Your theory pass certificate is valid for two years. If you haven’t passed your practical test in that time, you’ll need to retake the theory.
Statistically, yes. February, March and April have the highest average pass rates based on DVSA data. However, good revision is always key.
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