A man who repeatedly posed as a learner driver to fraudulently take tests for learners has been convicted.

It follows an investigation by the Driver and Vehicle Standards Agency (DVSA) that uncovered multiple offences across several parts of England.

It heightens concerns about the extent of driving and theory test fraud in the UK at a time when test slots are at a premium, and a pass is, too.

Easy pass

Solomon Tweneboah, 47, of East London, was found guilty of 14 counts of fraud by false representation after admitting to impersonating candidates sitting driving theory tests.

The offences were uncovered after staff at a test centre in Hertford raised concerns when a candidate’s appearance did not match the photograph on the driving licence presented.

Police were called to the centre on 19 January, where Tweneboah was arrested.

Subsequent investigations involving the DVSA revealed further incidents linked to him at test centres across London, Buckinghamshire, Essex, Northamptonshire and Suffolk.

It’s me, honest

Prosecutors said Tweneboah had been posing as genuine candidates who had booked tests, allowing them to obtain a pass without taking the exam themselves.

Such offences fall under fraud by false representation because the impersonator deliberately provides false identity information to obtain a qualification or financial benefit.

The case highlights growing concern over driving test fraud in the UK, which road safety experts warn could put unqualified drivers on the road.

Figures from the DVSA show attempts to cheat during theory or practical tests have surged in recent years.

In the 12 months to September 2025, 2,844 incidents were recorded across Britain, representing a 47% increase compared with the previous year.

Authorities say the rise reflects both improved detection and a genuine increase in attempts to cheat the system.

In the 2024/25 financial year alone, 96 people were prosecuted for offences including impersonation and technology-assisted cheating.

 

Multi tool

Impersonation is one of the most common methods used.

In many cases, a more experienced driver is paid to sit the test on behalf of the candidate.

DVSA data indicates more than 1,000 cases involved impersonators attempting the theory test, while hundreds more were linked to practical driving tests.

Other schemes rely on hidden technology.

Investigators say candidates have been caught using Bluetooth earpieces connected to concealed phones, allowing someone outside the exam room to feed them the correct answers.

More than 1,100 incidents of this type were detected in a single year.

Dangerous drivers

Motoring groups say the problem has grown alongside record waiting times for tests.

With hundreds of thousands of learners waiting months for an appointment, the pressure to pass and opportunities for fraudsters have only increased.

Safety organisations warn that the consequences can be serious.

If someone obtains a licence fraudulently, they may lack the skills needed to drive safely, putting other road users at risk.

The DVSA has strengthened security measures in response.

Test centres now conduct stricter identity checks, use intelligence to track repeat offenders, and work closely with police forces to prosecute organised fraud.

Penalties can be severe.

Those convicted may face prison sentences, driving bans, community orders and substantial court costs.

 

 

High alert

Officials say cases such as Tweneboah’s demonstrate how organised and persistent some offenders can be, and why enforcement remains a priority.

With driving test cheating at record levels, the DVSA says tackling impersonation and technology-assisted fraud is essential to maintaining the integrity of the licensing system and ensuring that only properly qualified drivers are allowed on Britain’s roads.