New research has revealed a knowledge gap between new and long-standing UK drivers when it comes to roadside first-aid – particularly the skills included in the revised driving theory test.
To understand how drivers feel about this change, car insurance expert MoneySuperMarket has surveyed the UK’s current motorists to reveal how confident they are in their roadside first aid skills, as well as finding out their reaction to the new modern-day theory test.
According to the research, three quarters (75%) of drivers aged 55 or older said they only had to complete a practical exam to pass their driving test, highlighting a clear difference in training requirements between drivers who qualified before the theory test was introduced and today’s learners.
MoneySuperMarket’s study suggests that motorists who passed their driving test before the theory test was introduced may feel less familiar with roadside first aid, particularly when it comes to life-saving CPR basics.
Younger drivers are more confident performing CPR
The study revealed that over half of UK drivers (56%) feel confident in their ability to perform CPR (cardiopulmonary resuscitation). Those aged between 25-34 years old feel the most confident (76% feel confident), whereas those aged 55 or older are the least likely to feel confident in performing CPR (only 46% feel confident).
When asked about the correct CPR pace (120 compressions per minute), only 12% of drivers aged 55 or older answered correctly compared to the 38% of drivers aged 18-24 who knew the right answer.
A similar gap appears when looking at knowledge of the correct CPR compression depth (5-6cm), as 29% of drivers aged 25-34 (29%) answered correctly, while only 14% of those aged 55+ selected the right answer.
What’s more, according to MoneySuperMarket’s research, 10% of the country’s motorists say they would not step in to help if they witnessed a road accident; 11% of those aged 55+ reported this, the highest percentage of any age group.
Should long-standing drivers have access to additional learning support?
With first aid knowledge set to become an important focus of the 2026 theory test update, the findings raise questions over how prepared some long-standing motorists would feel responding to a real-life roadside emergency
The research found that public concern appears to reflect this, as 60% of UK drivers agree that those who passed their test before theory tests were introduced should have access to additional learning support.
Meanwhile, 57% believe drivers who passed a long time ago, or who didn’t have to sit a theory test at all, may lack basic first aid knowledge.
Alicia Hempsted, Car Insurance Expert at MoneySuperMarket said, “Many experienced drivers passed their test at a time when first aid knowledge simply wasn’t part of the process, with some not having to undergo a theory test at all.
“But while experience on the road is invaluable, knowing how to respond in an emergency is just as important.
“With defibrillators and CPR knowledge becoming more important in the UK driving theory test this year, it’s clear that road safety now goes beyond simple driving skills, and staying informed doesn’t just help you avoid fines or penalty points; it also helps keep everyone safer on the roads.”
