Learner drivers to pay less for theory tests

UK Transport minister Stephen Hammond has announced a reduction of 25 per cent to the cost of the driving theory test. The Government is presenting this measure as part of a package designed to reduce the cost of motoring, predicting that learner drivers will reduce expenditure by more than £100m over the next nine years.

The fee for a car driving theory test will fall by £6 in October this year, taking the cost of a test from £31 to £25, with a further drop of £2 in October 2015. Theory test fees for motorcycles and other categories of vehicle will also be reduced. The changes have been confirmed following a public consultation.

Hammond said: “We want to keep costs down for all motorists – that’s why we have frozen fuel duty – and by reducing the cost of the theory test we will save aspiring motorists around £9 million annually.

“This has been achieved without compromising on the vital role the theory test plays in making sure that new drivers know the Highway Code and the rules of the road. I am delighted that theory tests will now offer better value for money while continuing to meet these rigorous standards.”

Driver and Vehicle Standards Agency (DVSA) chief executive, Alastair Peoples, said: “By agreeing new contract arrangements for the delivery of theory tests we have secured significant cost savings, and it is right that we pass these savings on to our customers. We want to make sure that we continue to keep pace with customers’ needs and deliver services in a way which is both convenient and cost effective.”