98% of drivers forget their theory knowledge after six months

How would you do?

After weeks of revising the Highway Code and taking practice tests online, you’re bound to feel ready when it comes to taking your theory test. But how long do you expect this knowledge to stay with you? Throughout your practical lessons? Your driving career? Or do you think you will have forgotten it all the minute you walk out of the test centre?

A new study has revealed that 98% of drivers actually forget the rules of the road after six months of passing.

The research, commissioned by Motors.co.uk, showed that just 12 out of 1,000 respondents managed to pass the test, made up of questions from the actual theory test, and 75% of those had passed the theory test more than 16 years ago. While the test has been made progressively harder since it was first introduced almost 20 years ago – now consisting of both a hazard perception test and a multiple choice section – the research highlights that drivers don’t seem to be taking this information in.

So what were the most interesting fail-findings?

1 in 20 think it’s appropriate to drive on the hard shoulder if over-taking, braking or in grid-lock traffic.

But it is not! The hard shoulder should only be used in an emergency or if you have broken down.

Two thirds of drivers are unaware of road safety procedure related to those who are visually or hearing impaired.

If a pedestrian is carrying a red and white cane, this means they are both deaf and blind and may not be able to see or hear your vehicle approaching. If this happens, be aware and be patient, allowing more time for them to cross the road.

1 in 20 drivers think you need to show the police your theory test certificate if you are pulled over for being in a collision.

While this may be an important document, the police will not need to see this, and instead will ask for your full driving licence, as well as your insurance and MOT certificates.

Motors.co.uk asked respondents – ranging from drivers who passed less than three months ago to drivers who passed their test when it was first introduced almost 20 years ago – to answer questions that would commonly be found in their car theory test. With the majority of those who passed having taken their test over 16 years ago, you could argue that practical driving may be a more valuable way of learning about the road.

Think you could pass the test? Take the Motors.co.uk How Road Smart Are You? quiz and see how you do – plus you can win two great prizes!