On This Day

Saturday 1st June 1935

85 years ago

Compulsory testing was brought in for all British drivers who started driving on or after 1 April 1934. The driving test in 1935 wasn’t much different to how it is today. There was no theory test, but learner drivers were quizzed on their knowledge of the Highway Code before the practical exam started. A reporter from Autocar magazine was sent along to try out the test in 1935 and report back to their readers on what to expect. The 1930s driving test included an emergency stop, hill start, three-point turn, vehicle and hand signalling, parking and number plate reading. The driving test lasted around 30 minutes and, according to the DVSA, the pass rate was 63%.“The test is not easy,” said Autocar. “A very good knowledge of the Highway Code seems to be necessary, and it must be applied to one’s driving. Captain Stuart [the examiner] stressed that the main requirement in the test was safety. “How the driver treats his car does not matter so much. Crashing the gears will not influence the tester, so long as it does not affect safety.”