Drivers across the country face new rules from today as the DVSA clamps down on driving test bookings. From March 31, motorists can now make just two changes to a car driving test booking – slashing the previous allowance of up to six.
The Driver & Vehicle Standards Agency said anyone needing further alterations after using both changes will be forced to cancel their test and rebook, potentially joining already lengthy waiting lists.
In a post on X, the agency warned: “From March 31 you will only be able to make 2 changes to a car driving test booking. If you need to make more changes after you have used your 2 changes, you will need to cancel your test and book a new one.”
The move marks the first stage of a wider overhaul rolling out over the coming months, aimed at tackling booking abuse and improving access to tests.
Under the new rules introduced today:
- Learners can only change the date, time or test centre twice
- Making multiple changes at once still counts as just one change
- Cancelling at least 10 working days before the test still guarantees a full refund
However, further restrictions are already on the way. From May 12, learners will be solely responsible for booking and managing their own tests via GOV.UK – making it illegal for driving instructors or third parties to do it on their behalf.
That means instructors will no longer be able to:
- Book tests for pupils
- Change or swap appointments
- Manage bookings in the system
Learners will instead have to confirm they are the person taking the test and agree to new terms and conditions. The DVSA says friends or family can still help – but only if the learner is present and completes as much of the process themselves as possible.
Then from June 9, further limits will tighten the system again, restricting how far appointments can be moved.
Learners will only be allowed to switch their test to one of the three nearest centres to their original booking – ending the practice of snapping up slots across the country and later moving them.
The changes apply only to car driving tests across England, Scotland and Wales. Officials say the reforms are designed to make the system fairer and reduce long waits, which have left many learners struggling to secure a slot. But learners are warned the tougher rules could leave some drivers out of pocket or forced to delay their test if their circumstances change more than twice.