Organisation: TRL
Date of Publication: July 2025
Uploaded to Knowledge Centre: 12 November 2025
Male candidates have consistently achieved a higher pass rate on the Category B (car) practical driving test in GB than female candidates. Similarly, female candidates have passed the theory component of the test at a higher rate than males.
This study took a mixed methods approach to understanding these and other inequalities in the car driving test, with the goal of improving test fairness. Existing DVSA data was analysed, a short literature review was undertaken, and interviews were held with examiners, instructors, learners and recent test passers.
Access the report via the TRL website:
https://www.trl.co.uk/publications/equality-in-the-driving-test