Driving test success depends on centre

The dreaded driving test is one of the most nerve-wracking experiences in people's lives – and it seems success rates can vary depending on where you take it.

Fresh statistics today suggested the place a driver takes a test could have a significant impact on the result – with Cannock looking like the most likely place in the region to achieve success. Out of 4,950 tests taken at the Hawks Green Lane test centre in the 12 months leading up to March this year, 52.2 per cent of candidates, or 2,585, emerged triumphant.

In contrast, the Knowles Street test centre in Wednesbury appears to be the hardest place in the region to pass with just 35.4 per cent of tests taken last year – 3,589 out of 10,134 – ending with a positive result.

Those taking the test in Spring Road, Wolverhampton, had a decent chance of losing their L-plates. Out of 10,043 tests taken, 4,934 – or 49.1 per cent – resulted in a pass.

Meanwhile, there were 1,493 passes out of 3,010 tests taken in Stafford – a pass rate of 49.6 per cent – and 3,357 passes out of 7,300 tests taken in Lower Gornal, a pass rate of 46 per cent. The national pass rate last year was 46.34 per cent.

Driving instructor Jen Brettle, of Jenny's Driving School, said: "Wednesbury has got a bit of a reputation for being quite difficult.

"The examiners are said to be strict. There are nasty junctions at either end of the road when you come out of the test centre."

Driving instructor James Quinn, from Smethwick-based Sandwell Driving School, said there were many regional factors that could affect the outcome of a test.

"In a more affluent area pupils are likely to have had more preparation and more lessons," he said.

Today Driving Standards Agency spokesman Liz Wilford denied it was harder to pass in Wednesbury – or easier to pass in Cannock – than any other test centre.

"It's essential that all drivers demonstrate they have the right skills, knowledge and attitude to drive safely," she said.