In 2025, the Driver and Vehicle Standards Agency (DVSA) will implement new rules aimed at reducing waiting times for learner drivers and improving the testing process.

These changes are a response to a backlog in driving tests exacerbated by the COVID-19 pandemic, which previously led to waiting times of up to five months for practical tests.

Currently, waiting times for practical tests are approximately 13 weeks in Wales, over 15 weeks in Scotland, and nearly 21 weeks in England.

To address these long waiting times, the DVSA plans to hire 450 new driving examiners to increase the number of available test slots for learners.

From April 2023 to March 2024, the DVSA conducted over 2 million driving tests, with an additional 500,000 already booked for the next 24 weeks, highlighting the ongoing demand for reforms.

There is a proposal to extend the test booking window beyond the current limit of 24 weeks to provide learners with greater certainty in scheduling their tests.

The DVSA will extend its 'Ready to Pass?' campaign, which helps learners prepare effectively for their driving tests and encourages them to take the test only when truly ready.

New cancellation policies will require learners to provide at least 10 days' notice for test cancellations to avoid losing their fee, aiming to reduce last-minute cancellations.

The agency will impose stricter terms and conditions on driver training businesses that handle test bookings to ensure fair access to appointments.

The DVSA will enhance the driving test booking system to prevent the resale of appointments, which has unfairly disadvantaged learners.

Additionally, the DVSA is considering penalties for no-shows and abusive behavior towards examiners, including longer waiting periods before rebooking tests after serious faults or abuse.

The DVSA acknowledges that while these measures aim to improve the testing system, significant changes will take time and cannot be achieved quickly.

Lilian Greenwood, the minister for roads, emphasized the importance of timely access to driving tests for learners, linking it to employment and better living standards.