Should prison be the penalty for cheating on your driving test?
Car changing is a big deal
A new survey shows 31% of Brits support prison time for anyone caught cheating on their driving test, amid rising safety concerns and stricter government measures.
A new survey from Tiger.co.uk suggests the public is firmly against driving test cheating, with 31% of respondents saying offenders should face criminal prosecution and 38% supporting licence suspensions.
The findings come as official data from the Driver and Vehicle Standards Agency (DVSA) shows a 47% rise in recorded cheating incidents. In the most serious cases, individuals have received custodial sentences after being prosecuted for fraud-related offences.
Road safety experts warn that attempting to bypass the UK’s testing system can have serious consequences. Anyone who avoids the proper assessment may not have the skills, awareness or understanding of the rules needed to stay safe on our roads – putting themselves and other road users at risk.
Remember, you can buy a brand new or used car right here on Carwow. And you can sell your car, too. We’re here to help you through every step of your car-changing journey.
Public support for tougher penalties
As well as prosecution and suspensions, the survey found:
- 12% believe offenders should face a lifetime driving ban
- 9% support financial fines
- 9% favour penalty points
While opinions vary on the severity of punishment, the majority support firm consequences designed to protect road users.
Why are pass rates falling?
DVSA statistics show theory test pass rates have fallen from 63.4% in 2010-11 to 44.3% in 2025-26. The test has evolved over time to place greater emphasis on hazard perception and up-to-date Highway Code knowledge.
Industry professionals say longer waiting times and lower pass rates may increase pressure on learners. However, safety experts stress that cheating undermines the system and creates wider risks on UK roads.
Focus on young driver safety
Around 20% of people killed or seriously injured in reported collisions involve at least one young driver, according to government road casualty data. Because newly qualified motorists statistically face higher collision risks, policymakers have announced safety proposals, including support for extended supervised learning periods.
However, 83% of those surveyed by Tiger.co.uk backed a minimum three-month learning period before drivers can operate independently. Research consistently shows that more supervised practice helps improve hazard perception, confidence and decision-making behind the wheel.
Ian Wilson, managing director at Tiger.co.uk, said: “Driving is a skill that carries real responsibility. Proper training and testing are there to protect everyone on the road. While we understand learners can feel pressure, bypassing the system puts lives at risk.”
What NOT to do during your driving test
To give yourself the best chance of passing – and staying safe – avoid these five common mistakes:
- Don’t attempt to cheat. Using impersonators or hidden communication devices is illegal and can result in a ban or criminal record.
- Don’t ignore observation checks. Failing to check mirrors and blind spots is one of the most common reasons for failing.
- Don’t rush junctions or roundabouts. Examiners look for clear judgement and safe decision-making.
- Don’t exceed speed limits – or drive too slowly without reason. Both can be marked as faults.
- Don’t panic after a minor mistake. Stay calm and focused – one small error doesn’t automatically mean failure.
Car change? Carwow!
Looking for a new set of wheels? With Carwow you can sell your car quickly and for a fair price – as well as find great offers on your next one. Whether you’re looking to buy a car brand new, are after something used or you want to explore car leasing options, Carwow is your one stop shop for new car deals.
Click here to follow us on WhatsApp, where you can keep up-to-date with all the latest news, reviews, advice guides and videos.