Redditch learner driver failed theory test 60 times and spent £1,400

“In part, these jams are being caused by people who have failed multiple times and come back to take a test that might be their fourth, fifth or sixth attempt, or even greater,” Mr Gooding said.

“An improved pass rate would help drive down the understandable backlog, and if you incentivise people to pass first time there is also a case for adding a modest premium to the test fee for those who have already failed on several occasions.”

Mr Gooding said the introduction of higher fees would deter people from throwing themselves back into tests without being ready.

“A higher fee might persuade them not to resit their test until they are more likely to pass,” he said.

“If you can improve the pass rate, this means more learners avoiding the financial and time costs associated with repeated disappointments at the test centre.”

Last year, the Driving Standards Agency (DVSA) increased the the length of time candidates who fail the practical test have to wait before rebooking, from 10 to 28 days, in the hope of encouraging them to wait until they are ready to pass.