Driving test delays are out of control

I’ve recently signed a letter along with fellow MPs, calling for an update on the progress of the Government’s 7-point plan to tackle the ongoing issues with accessing driving tests. As many constituents across the country continue to struggle with long waiting times, expensive middleman charges, and the inconvenience of having to travel long distances, it’s vital that we hold the Government to account for delivering the improvements that have been promised.

In particular, it’s frustrating for learners who are ready to pass their test but find themselves waiting up to six months or more for an appointment. Some people are being forced to pay hefty fees to third-party websites or agents that charge for booking appointments, adding unnecessary stress and expense to an already challenging process. In many cases, these costs are simply not affordable for all.

The 7-point plan, which includes recruiting more examiners, improving the booking system, and regulating the role of driving instructors in the booking process, was put forward with the intention of fixing the driving test backlog. However, after months of waiting, many are still facing significant hurdles when it comes to booking a test.

One of the first steps in the 7-point plan was the recruitment of 450 new driving examiners, and while we understand that recruitment has taken place in 2024, we want an update on whether this has adequately addressed the examiners’ shortage and whether regional imbalances in availability have been resolved. The plan also promised improvements to the rules surrounding test bookings, including stricter regulations for driving instructors and measures to ensure that they are not overcharging students for booking appointments. It’s essential that the Government holds these instructors accountable, ensuring the service is both transparent and affordable.

In addition, the consultation on changing the rules for test bookings and cancellations is an area that deserves attention. I’ve heard many concerns about the impact these waiting times have on learners, and many are asking whether more flexibility could be introduced to help. The Government’s commitment to reducing waiting times to seven weeks by December 2025 is a positive step, but only time will tell if they can meet this ambitious target.

Furthermore, with the DVSA's business plan committing to 1.95 million driving tests by March 2025, there needs to be greater transparency regarding how the department is managing this target and what steps are being taken if the targets aren’t met.

The Government needs to ensure that young people in our communities, and all learners across the UK, have the opportunity to take their test within a reasonable timeframe without being forced into financial hardship or facing unnecessary delays. As MPs, we will continue to press for action, hold the Government to account, and advocate for accessible, affordable driving tests that are fair to all.

We must remember that driving is not just about getting a licence - it’s a key milestone for independence and mobility, and it should not be obstructed by bureaucratic hurdles. I will continue to raise these issues with the Department for Transport, working alongside colleagues, until we see real change for all those affected by this ongoing issue.

Thank you to everyone who has shared their experiences and concerns on this matter - your voices are vital in ensuring we make driving tests more accessible for everyone.