A third of motorists would fail if they took their tests again

Nearly 12 million motorists admit that they would not pass if they had to retake their driving tests, according to research from Confused.com – UK car insurance price comparison site.

Thirty-five to 44 year olds have the least confidence in their driving abilities, with 39% claiming that they would fail their driving test if they had to retake it. The fact that 1 in 4 35-44 year olds took more than three attempts to pass their driving tests might account for such lack of confidence.

More than three quarters (76%) of 17-24 year olds believe that they would pass their driving test, if they had to take it again, which is surprising when almost two thirds (65%) admit to frequently driving either with one hand on the wheel, or over the speed limit.

However, potential dangerous driving practices did not stop there, with 1.5 million drivers (1,428,000) claiming that it is fine to use the hard-shoulder to overtake other drivers, stop to make a phone-call, or take a break from driving.

Will Thomas, head of motor insurance at Confused.com, says: "It is a concern that more than one third of UK motorists do not believe that they would pass their driving tests if they were to retake them, and even more worrying that young drivers are the most confident about their driving abilities despite the fact that they are the worst offenders when it comes to dangerous driving; however, the suggestion that 1.5 million motorists believe that the hard-shoulder can be used for overtaking, resting or making a call is possibly the most alarming.

"It is so easy to let bad habits affect your driving - especially when driving becomes second nature - so it is worth trying to recognise and rectify any habits, as well as frequently reacquainting yourself with the Highway Code. Reckless driving can be extremely costly for motorists, not least in terms of car insurance premiums which rocket as drivers rack up points."