The number of learner drivers with future test bookings has hit a record high, as more slots are being released to address the backlog. According to figures from the Driver and Vehicle Standards Agency (DVSA), 668,128 people had a practical driving test booked in Britain as of the end of September.
This is a 15 per cent increase from 579,138 the previous year. The total reflects the backlog of driving tests, which the DVSA attributes to increased demand and some people booking tests much earlier than before.
Last month, 168,644 tests were conducted, marking a 14 per cent rise from 148,144 in September 2024. Roads minister Simon Lightwood hailed the increase as "fantastic".
Transport Secretary Heidi Alexander stated in April that her department aims to reduce the average waiting time for driving tests to seven weeks by summer 2026. The figure stood at 22.3 weeks at the end of June.
Tests can be booked up to 24 weeks ahead, with new slots released on a rolling basis.
The Government recently sought views on changing the driving test booking system, in an effort to prevent bots from mass-booking new slots for resale on the black market at inflated prices.
Officials have advised learners not to book a test until they are confident they will pass. The pass rate last month was 49.9 per cent, down from 50.7 per cent in August, marking a six-month low.
Mr Lightwood said: "We promised more tests and we've delivered. It's fantastic that the DVSA has carried out over 20,000 more tests in September this year.
"We inherited a broken system, with learners ready to ditch their L plates but unable to get a test. That's why we instructed the DVSA to take further measures this year, and we're now seeing real improvement.
"We're incentivising driving examiners to carry out more tests, nearly doubling the number of trainers available to teach new examiners, unlocking more tests.
"There's still more to be done - and we will make sure the DVSA continues to do all they can to reduce waiting times, breaking down the barriers of opportunity."