Ex-Top Gear host James May fails driving test retake – here’s why

17 Jun 2026 • 6:49 PM MYT
The Independent
The Independent

The world’s most free-thinking newspaper

Ex-Top Gear host James May fails driving test retake – here’s why

  • James May, the former Top Gear host, failed a modern driving test despite being a licensed driver for 46 years.
  • May, 63, undertook the test to compare it with the one he passed in 1980 and documented the experience on his YouTube channel, James May’s Planet Gin.
  • His failure was attributed to speeding twice during the test, driving at 46mph in a 40mph zone and 33mph in a 30mph zone, as seen in the video.
  • May admitted his lack of preparation for the test, saying: “I haven’t revised for it. I haven’t learnt anything about it. I’m just going to do it and see if I can pass.”
  • Despite his extensive motoring experience, May took the news of his failure amiably, telling viewers: “Do as I say, not as I do.”

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