Dorset driving tests see increase in pass rate during the pandemic
But, more examiners are needed
Even though fewer driving tests took place in Dorset during the pandemic more people are passing them.
Quieter roads and 'motivated' key workers taking their tests are thought to be behind it.
Driver and Vehicle Standards Agency data shows that of 1,559 practical tests at Dorchester Test Centre in 2020-21, 1,024 ended in success - a pass rate of 66%.
That was up from 60% the previous year.
However, far fewer tests were undertaken at Dorchester Test Centre over the latest period due to Covid-19 restrictions, which saw only key workers permitted to take tests during the enforced lockdowns.
In total, there were 1,559 driving tests in 2020-21 - compared to 4,498 in 2019-20 - with 2,395 cancelled due to the pandemic.
FIRST TIME PASSERS
The data also showed the rate of success for people taking their driving test for the first time.
At Dorchester Test Centre, 715 out of 1,062 people passed on the first attempt in 2020-21 - 67%.
That was above the national average of 51%.
MORE EXAMINERS ARE NEEDED
Practical tests resumed in April, but learners face a waiting time of more than three months to book a test with 470,000 already pencilled in across Great Britain, the DVSA said.
The body has launched a recruitment campaign for 300 examiners while tests are being done seven days a week to allow 20,000 to go ahead every month.
Asked if an increase in the national pass rate was down to quieter roads, the DSVA said traffic levels are regularly reviewed to ensure traffic is at a sufficient level to test a candidate's ability.
It also said the reduction in tests could have impacted the overall rate.
Robert Cowell, interim managing director of AA Driving School, said: "The slight increase in the driving test pass rate for the first quarter of this year could be down to a number of things including quieter roads during tests.
"In addition, during lockdowns, tests were only allowed for key workers who needed to drive for their job, this probably also goes some way to explaining the higher pass rate during these months as the candidates would have been incredibly motivated to pass."
Mr Cowell said that demand for driving tests is now "sky-high" due to the number of cancellations last year, adding many people are facing a frustrating wait.