DVSA driving test update as learners face ‘big shift’ in March rule change
From March 31, students will be limited to just two changes to their original driving test booking, including changes to date, time or venue, according to the Driver and Vehicle Standards Agency (DVSA). The authority has outlined changes designed to prevent block bookings by fraudsters.
DVSA said He said the new regulations only apply to driving tests in England, Scotland and Wales. They do not apply to other types of tests.
Additionally, from this spring, students will need to book their driving test themselves through GOV.UK. Driving instructors will not be allowed to make reservations on their behalf.
The DVSA said students should only book at an exam center they plan to use and can only transfer their exams to nearby centres. They can only book when their driving instructor confirms they are available and they must use their driving instructor’s reference number when booking to ensure the instructor does not receive double bookings.
Finally, once students have selected the date for which they realistically expect to be prepared, they will only be allowed to make two changes to their appointment.
‘Big change’
Matt Crole-Rees, motoring expert at Confused.com, said: “In just over a month’s time, new rules will come into force limiting how often learner drivers can change their test and where they can move it. “This is another big change for learners trying to hit the roads.
“Allowing only two changes and allowing students to only carry their original test booking within the local area could make things even more difficult for students living in areas with historically low pass rates.
“Our research shows that nearly six million driving tests have been carried out since 2021 and only half were successful.
“Pass rates can also vary widely between testing centers, ranging from around 33% to as high as 80%. For students in low-performing areas, having less flexibility to change their exams after waiting so long can mean more retakes, more waiting, and higher overall costs.”
“With these changes in mind, it is more important than ever for students to think before booking a test. Plan carefully, only take the test when you are truly ready and understand how local test centers are performing before booking.
“Our driving test pass rate calculator helps students compare nearby centres, so they can make an informed decision before signing up for the test for the first time.”
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