BOASTING you passed your driving test first time isn't a good idea.
Firstly, people will find you excruciatingly irritating and, more importantly, it actually reveals you're a pretty bad driver now.
In fact, latest black box data reveals first time passers are only better than those who take more than five attempts at the test.
While learners who take four attempts go on to become the best drivers.
Telematics insurance firm ingenie revealed average driving scores are better for fourth timers than anyone else.
Its black box data rates speed, acceleration, braking and cornering to give drivers a score out of 100.
Average scores for drivers and how many tests they took
- Drivers who passed 1st time had an average driving score of 78
- Drivers who passed 2nd time had an average driving score of 79
- Drivers who passed 3rd time had an average driving score of 80
- Drivers who passed 4th time had an average driving score of 84
- Drivers who passed 5th time had an average driving score of 81
- Drivers who had more than 5 attempts had an average driving score of 76
Analysis also revealed those who took less than four months to pass have a lower score than those that take longer.
And the optimum length of time spent learning to drive is 30 hours plus with average scores dipping below 80 if learners have fewer lessons.
The results should give comfort to those faced with the new driving test.
Changes come into force on Monday (December 4) with new reversing manoeuvres, independent driving following a sat nav and more "show me, tell me" questions.
Mike Ketteringham, ingenie CEO, said the results highlight while you may pass early it's far better for future safety to spend a bit longer practising with an instructor.
all you need to know about the new driving test
He added: "We all have a family member or friend that has claimed to be a better driver because they passed first time – many consider it a badge of honour.
"However, our research suggests the opposite.
"Not only does it put an end to the widely held view that those who pass their test first time are better drivers; it also highlights that the best drivers are those that have overcome failure and benefited from spending more time behind the wheel as a result."
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