New drivers beware - Brits driving test shame revealed

Brits taking their driving test this summer should beware as new research exposes those most likely to fail.

The survey from price comparison site moneysupermarket.com revealed Londoners are least likely to pass their driving test first time (41 per cent) along with those living in Wales, compared to over half (51 per cent) living in the North East and Yorkshire. Welsh motorists are most likely to do a hat trick and fail three times (7 per cent).

Men win the battle of the sexes; with over half (52 per cent) passing first time, compared to 42 per cent of women.

Peter Gerrard, head of insurance research at moneysupermarket.com said: "Learning to drive can be a costly affair, and with 53 per cent of people taking their test more than once, finally losing those L-plates doesn't come cheap, Unsurprisingly, twenty-something motorists are the least likely to pass their test on the first go, while those over 60 were more likely to get top marks with the test examiner first time round."

moneysupermarket.com found a 17 year old male can expect to pay £2841 for motor insurance, almost £1200 more than his female counterpart.

Peter Gerrard, head of insurance research at moneysupermarket.com said: "Younger drivers eager to get behind the wheel this summer may be shocked by how expensive their insurance premiums are. I advise taking a Pass Plus course, adding an older driver to your policy and consider buying an older car which may be easier to insure. Considering a higher excess on your policy will also keep your premium down."

moneysupermarket.com recommends the following tips to cut insurance costs:

Shop around - The Association of British Insurers says you can save 35 per cent by comparing as few as five insurance providers.

Buy online - Many car insurance providers offer discounts to customers that buy online.

Mileage limit - Consider a mileage limit or to only drive at certain hours of the day. More Than offers a pay-as-you-go scheme which reduces premiums by around 40 per cent for those under 25 who drive only during off-peak hours.

Car security - Make sure you have an alarm and immobiliser.

Drive a car with a smaller engine - A newer, more reliable car that is less likely to be used by 'boy racers' will have a cheaper premium.