Cases of cheating on driving tests in England, Scotland, and Wales surged nearly 50 percent in the past year, according to new data. The figures, obtained through a freedom of information request by the Press Association News Agency, revealed 2,844 attempts to cheat on driving tests in the year leading up to September 2025, a 47 percent increase from the previous year.

The Driving and Vehicle Standards Agency (DVSA) data indicated a variety of methods were employed, with over 1,100 cases involving the use of Bluetooth headsets. Candidates were apparently using the devices to receive answers during theory tests. In addition, there were 1,084 attempts to have someone else impersonate the test taker. Nearly 100 offenders faced prosecution for either cheating themselves or impersonating other candidates.

While specific comparative data across all nations is limited, academic studies suggest that test-taking fraud is a global issue, often linked to high-stakes testing environments. In some East Asian countries, for example, elaborate schemes involving signal jammers and sophisticated communication devices have been uncovered in university entrance exams. The motivations are often tied to intense societal pressure to succeed academically and professionally.

Industry leaders in the UK attributed the rise in cheating to a nationwide shortage of driving tests and a subsequent desperation among candidates to pass. The DVSA, however, pointed to a general increase in cheating attempts coupled with improved detection methods.

The DVSA has been investing in technology and training to detect and prevent fraud, according to agency statements. These measures include enhanced surveillance during tests and improved methods for verifying the identity of test takers. The agency also works with law enforcement to prosecute offenders.

The rise in driving test cheating raises concerns about road safety and the integrity of the licensing process. Authorities are likely to increase scrutiny and enforcement efforts to combat the problem and ensure that only qualified drivers are licensed to operate vehicles.