Learners are caught using driving test impersonators

More than 40 learners are caught using impersonators to take driving tests each year, new figures show.

Some 209 were convicted from 2012/13 to 2016/17, according to data published by transport minister Andrew Jones.

Motoring experts warned that offenders are putting “everyone’s lives at risk”.

More than half (53%) of all cases were dealt with by the Metropolitan Police.

A further 111 people were convicted of taking the practical or theory tests on behalf of others.

Steve Gooding, director of motoring research charity the RAC Foundation, told the Press Association: “With only half of candidates passing their driving test first time, you can see why some could be tempted to guarantee their success by hiring an impersonator.

“By being prepared to get behind the wheel by fair means or foul, people hiring impersonators put everyone’s lives at risk because neither we nor they have any idea whether their driving meets the required standard.”

In the last five years, more than 1,100 licences have been revoked due to evidence they were obtained fraudulently.