By Saul Cooke-Black

AN UNLUCKY learner driver from Gloucestershire failed her driving test 38 times, spending hundreds of pounds on test fees – before finally passing on the 39th attempt.

Figures from the Driver and Vehicle Standards Agency show that more female drivers have failed the practical test a high number of times than males in recent years.

Between January 1 2007 and December 31 2014, 560 learners failed the practical test six or more times at Gloucester and Cheltenham test centres.

Of these, 223 were male and 337 female.

It costs £62 to take the car practical test and £25 for the theory.

A spokesman from the DVLA said: "It’s essential that all drivers demonstrate they have the right skills, knowledge and attitude to drive safely.

"The driver testing and training regime tests candidates’ ability to drive safely and responsibly as well as making sure they know the theory behind safe driving."