Learner drivers will witness a series of changes from later this year, under new rules introduced by the DVSA.
From May 12, only learners themselves will be permitted to book, amend or reschedule a car driving test - marking a significant shake-up announced by the Driver and Vehicle Standards Agency. The change comes amid growing frustration over so-called 'test resellers' who bulk-buy available slots and sell them on at extortionate prices, preventing genuine learners from securing appointments for themselves. In confirming the clampdown, the agency stated it is "taking action" following demands for a fairer booking system.
Targeting third-party bookings
Under the new rules, third parties - including driving instructors - will be prohibited from arranging or managing tests on learners' behalf.
From May onwards, it will also be unlawful for anyone else to:
- Book a driving test for someone else
- Change a test booking
- Swap test appointments
Learners will be required to use the official GOV.UK platform themselves and verify their identity as the test candidate. Friends or relatives may still offer assistance - but only if the learner is physically present and completes the booking process personally.
Stricter amendment rules
The overhaul begins earlier, with restrictions coming into force from March 31, 2026.
Learners will only be permitted to modify their test twice, down from the current limit of six changes. Officials are urging drivers to select realistic dates, as once the two permitted changes are exhausted, they'll need to cancel and rebook - though refunds remain available if cancelled at least 10 working days beforehand.
New restrictions on changing test centres
Additional limitations will take effect from June 9, 2026, constraining how far learners can relocate their test. Rather than switching to any test centre across the country, drivers will only be permitted to move their booking to:
- One of the three closest test centres, or
- The original test centre they initially booked
This measure aims to prevent candidates from booking tests far from their home location purely to secure earlier appointments.
Instructors excluded from booking process
The changes will represent a major shift for driving instructors, who presently often manage bookings on behalf of their pupils. From May onwards, they will no longer be permitted to book or administer tests whatsoever, although they can still:
- Supply their instructor reference number
- Indicate their availability for test dates
Any tests already arranged by instructors will proceed as planned, but learners will require their reference numbers to manage them moving forward.
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What's next?
The DVSA said it will reach out to impacted users before the new regulations take effect, using the email address associated with their booking. The revamp applies throughout England, Scotland and Wales, and solely impacts car driving tests - not other vehicle categories.
These modifications are part of a broader initiative to address lengthy waiting times and restore equity to a system that has been beset by delays and misuse.
Context:
Learner drivers will face new restrictions on booking and managing driving tests starting May 2026.
Context:
These changes aim to create a fairer system and reduce the impact of test resellers on genuine learners.
Context:
The DVSA's overhaul is part of a wider effort to tackle long wait times for driving tests across the UK.