By Jonathan Ferreira
Cheating during driving tests has risen sharply across England Scotland and Wales as candidates increasingly turn to technology and impersonators to secure a licence. New figures from the Driving and Vehicle Standards Agency show attempts to cheat increased by nearly fifty per cent in the year to September twenty twenty five. A total of two thousand eight hundred and forty four cases were recorded, with more than one thousand involving the use of concealed technology such as Bluetooth earpieces linked to hidden mobile phones during theory tests. Authorities also identified widespread use of impersonators in both theory and practical examinations.
Data obtained through freedom of information requests revealed that over one thousand people attempted to take theory tests while pretending to be the registered candidate, while hundreds more tried the same tactic during practical exams. Nearly one hundred people were prosecuted over the twelve month period either for cheating directly or for impersonation. Experts warn that allowing unqualified drivers onto the roads poses serious safety risks. Fraud specialists say people who pass illegally may lack basic driving skills, increasing the likelihood of accidents injuries and fatalities. Under the law impersonators and those who hire them can face driving bans prison sentences fines or unpaid work.
The surge in cheating comes amid long waiting times for driving test appointments across the country. While the DVSA says it has no direct evidence linking fraud to the backlog, industry leaders believe desperation is a major factor. Some learners reportedly pay large sums to fraudsters who promise guaranteed passes. The government has acknowledged that test delays may continue until late twenty twenty seven due to examiner shortages and booking system abuse. In response authorities have strengthened checks including identity verification and improved fraud detection. Officials say tackling cheating is essential to protect road safety and maintain confidence in the driving licence system.
