Driving Test Booking System Overhaul: DVSA Implements Restrictions to Combat Resale Market
From 12 May, the Driver and Vehicle Standards Agency (DVSA) will implement changes to how driving tests are booked, a move designed to mitigate prolonged waiting lists and prevent the bulk acquisition of slots by third-party resellers. The previous system, which permitted driving instructors to book tests for their students, has been abolished.
Under the revised regulations, only the individual learner driver will possess the authority to book, amend, or swap their own driving test. This measure directly counters a documented practice where certain driving instructors allegedly received payments of up to £250 monthly for providing their official booking credentials to touts. These touts subsequently exploited the system to reserve driving tests in bulk, reselling them to learners via social media platforms for as much as £500, a stark contrast to the standard DVSA fee of £62 for weekday tests and £75 for evening, weekend, or bank holiday appointments.
Booking and Modification Limitations
Learners are now required to obtain a reference number from their instructor to confirm availability before booking. While assistance can be provided to others for booking, the learner must be present, and all confirmations must be directed to their personal email or phone.
Furthermore, since 31 March, a limit of two modifications applies to any booked test. This includes changes to the date, time, or test centre, as well as swapping slots with other learners. If more than one element is altered simultaneously, it will still count as a single modification. DVSA-initiated changes do not count towards this limit. Should a learner exceed two changes, they must cancel the existing test and book anew, with refunds only issued if the cancellation occurs at least 10 working days prior to the test date.
From 9 June, any relocation of a booked test will be restricted to the three test centres geographically closest to the original booking location. The DVSA advises booking only at a intended test centre and selecting a realistic date for test readiness.
