Only One in Three Passes the Practical Driving Test in Mallorca

Alarm at driving schools: Many fail the practical driving test

Last week I stood at a traffic light in Palma, overheard two young people arguing — 'I wanted to do this in the summer' — and realized that the problem is not just theory. On Mallorca, only about 36% of candidates pass the practical driving test on the first attempt. That means for many: more hours, more stress, more costs.

Why do so many fail?

It's a mix of factors. Cheap driving schools advertise quick appointments and low prices. Sounds tempting, especially if you're on vacation or the rent is burning a hole in your pocket. But often the examinees are simply not adequately prepared. A driving instructor from a small school near Passeig del Born told me: 'When the test comes, you notice the difference.'

There is no legally mandated minimum number of driving lessons, so some sign up very early. Those lucky enough pass — many do not. For reputable driving schools this is frustrating: They invest time and practice, but lose customers to competitors that sell the quick result.

Examiners, housing costs and organization

Another, less visible factor is staff. In the Balearic Islands it was sometimes difficult to find enough examiners — partly due to high living costs. With monthly rents often around 1,500 euros for a normal apartment, Mallorca is not attractive to all civil servants. Currently, according to the regional authority, there are about 16 examiners plus two coordinators on duty, which has improved the situation. Nevertheless, waiting times still vary by season.

What is being proposed?

The traffic authority wants to strengthen cooperation with driving schools and raise the level of training without loosening the exam requirements. Sensible, I think. More practice hours instead of crash courses would not only reduce the failure rate, but also the number of accidents in the long run.

Tips for driving students

A few practical tips I often share: Ask about the driving school's success rates, insist on additional practice hours in traffic-heavy situations (roundabouts, uphill sections), and build a financial cushion. Those who take the theory test at 9 a.m. are often more alert than the tired evening candidate — sounds simple, but it helps.

In short: Driving on Mallorca is not a crash course. Those who take their time, practice, and choose the right driving school have better chances — and in the end you save nerves and money. And that’s somehow comforting, isn’t it?