A MAJOR change to driving tests is coming into force today with millions of learners set to be affected.
The DVSA is changing the rules to slash waiting times and help new drivers get on the road.
GettyDVSA have revealed new rules for booking driving tests[/caption]
Gov.ukLearner drivers can book their test online[/caption]
From today, learner drivers will need to give the DVSA 10 days notice if they want to change or cancel their test.
The new rules only apply to car driving tests, as motorcycle, lorry and bus learners only need to provide three days notice to make changes to their exam time.
This also applies to theory tests, which also only require three days notice.
Budding motorists should be aware that the notice period applies to working days, which means Monday to Saturday count but Sunday and public holidays do not.
Why is the rule changing?
The government website has stated that the primary reason for changing the rules is because of an increasing number of tests going unused.
As learner drivers approach their test day, many decide they are not ready to sit it and leave it to the last minute to change or cancel the exam.
As it’s so close to the test date, it can be hard for others to make the appropriate arrangements to use the appointment meaning many tests go to waste.
In 2024, about 60,000 appointments were wasted because of no-shows, according to the government site.
This has made booking tests harder with longer wait times. As a result, DVSA is thinking of further ways to discourage people from cancelling their tests last minute.
Learner drivers currently have to wait 10 working days before being able to book another test but this could be set to increase in the future.
DVSA is also considering charging a penalty fee in order to cease the number of last minute cancellations and changes.
For anyone needing to change or cancel their test because of special circumstances such as an illness, injury, or if they have suffered a bereavement then they can request a refund.
This is also applicable to anyone needing to take an exam or who has had their driving license stolen.
Roads minister Lilian Greenwood previously said: “Passing your driving test is a life changing opportunity for millions.
“But sky-high waiting times for tests in recent years have denied that opportunity to too many people.
“No one should have to wait six months when they’re ready to pass, travel to the other side of the country to take a driving test.
“Nor should they be ripped off by unscrupulous websites just because they can’t afford to wait.
“The scale of the backlog we have inherited is huge, but today’s measures are a crucial step to tackle the long driving test wait times.
DVSA is an agency which focuses on driving tests, vehicle standards, and road safety enforcement.
This differs to the DVLA which handles vehicle licensing.
How to book your driving test
You can book your driving test online by visiting www.gov.uk/booking-driving-test.
You’ll be put in a queue when you start booking your driving test – you’ll be told how long you’ll need to wait once you begin. This is faster than booking by phone because the phone lines are very busy at the moment.
You can book a test up to 24 weeks in the future. There is no waiting list or cancellation list.
This service is available from 6am to 11:40pm.
You need your:
UK driving licence number
credit or debit card
driving instructor’s personal reference number if you want to check they’re available
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