LEARNER drivers face a tough task if they want to pass their test in Glasgow but if they travel to the Highlands they stand a far better chance of gaining their licence.

Shieldhall and Anniesland in Glasgow have the lowest pass rates for driving tests in Scotland with only four in 10 passing their tests.

However in the quiet Highland village of Golspie on the east coast of Sutherland eight out of 10 are able to throw their L-plates in the bin after taking their practical test.

The pass rate for Golspie is also the highest in the UK, according to the new survey carried out by financial services comparison website Confused.com.

Meanwhile the same survey reveals more than a third (37 per cent) of drivers in Scotland say the new test, which will come into force at the end of the year, must go further to improve road safety.

Across the UK, the survey found that drivers were calling for motorway driving (73 per cent) and night driving (66 per cent) to be introduced to the test.

Meanwhile almost half (46 per cent) welcome introduction of the sat nav, while a further half (46 per cent) criticise new ‘dangerous’ reversing manoeuvre - a learner will be asked to pull up on the right-hand side of the road, reverse for two car lengths and then rejoin the traffic.

Researchers at Confused.com say it is unclear how the changes will impact on Scotland’s pass rates in places like Golspie and Shieldhall.

Amanda Stretton, motoring editor at the website, said: “To make the roads safer, drivers believe more practical changes should have been included in the new updates set to be implemented in December.

"To help improve the quality of driving on our roads, there is a valid argument that new drivers should be taught general road etiquette and how to treat fellow drivers. This could help to minimise stress levels, road rage, and the risk of accidents, providing all drivers an easy ride.”

Mr Caunter believes the changes will help improve the skills of his pupils.

"I think the changes coming to the test in December make sense. They incorporate a lot of things drivers do anyway, but have not been taught to do. Many cars come with Sat Nav so they should learn how to operate that while driving.

"I don't see the new requirement to reverse on the right hand side of the road as potentially dangerous. Not if it is taught properly, in a safe environment. If they are going to be driving out on the roads, they will have to do these manoeuvres anyway. It is what drivers do, so there is no point in keeping them a secret.

"Most instructors don't work towards just what's in the test, but rather to what drivers will need to be able to do after the test."