The UK’s learner drivers are failing their theory tests at an alarming rate, with the Department for Transport blaiming an overuse of ‘humiliating road signs.

Only 48 per cent of the 1.9m potential drivers passed the theory test over the past 12 months, and many of those who failed blamed confusion over road signs as to the reason for their failure.

The DfT has called for the road signage system to be modernised to allow the UK’s drivers a clearer understanding of the rules of the road.

A DfT spokesman said: “Nobody likes clutter, which is why we want to reduce the number of unnecessary traffic signs being used.

"Local councils are best placed to decide if they want to remove, replace or install new signs on their roads.

"We provide guidelines to help them make sure their signs are clear for road users.”

Seventeen-year-old women are the most likely to pass the theory test, with a 54 per cent success rate, males aged 33 were most successful.

At a cost of £23, the theory test was introduced in July 1996 and now consists of 50 multiple choice questions, required 43 correct answers for a pass. In addition, learner drivers now also take a skills test. The cost of retaking the theory test is bringin in an extra £23 million to the Government.

Scrap Car Merchants believe that the confusion over road signs is leading to more and more vehicles being written off in accidents.

Speaking in The Sun, A representative from Scrapcarcomparison.co.uk, said: “Many cars are written off because people misjudge a situation on the road.

"Data collected by our team shows that many of our customers have admitted making a wrong decision which caused an accident.

"With the theory exam only being introduced in 1996 it would make interesting reading as to how many people would pass it having never taken it.”

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