New rules will come into effect from spring this year
Government officials have issued an update regarding changes to the online driving test booking system. As it stands, learners can book their practical test via the Government website. The webpage provides guidance, stating: “You’ll be put in a queue when you start booking your driving test – you’ll be told how long you’ll need to wait once you begin.
“This is faster than booking by phone because the phone lines are very busy at the moment.” Online bookings for tests can be made from 6am to 11.40pm. Learners can book their test up to 24 weeks ahead of the test date.
There’s no waiting list or cancellation list for the system. To secure your test slot, you’ll need to provide details about your vehicle type, your provisional licence, and specifics about the test itself, including the test centre, and the date and time for your test.
The subject of driving tests came up during a Public Accounts Committee meeting in Parliament on January 15. MPs were grilling public officials about the use of data to prevent error and fraud.
One persistent problem that was highlighted was the issue of ‘legacy systems’, where complications arise due to the use of outdated processes and software. Committee chair Geoffrey Clifton-Brown noted that these antiquated systems often require “patching” to keep them operational.
In a concerning warning, he added: “Now we’re hearing that they make it more difficult to root out fraud and error because they are not AI compatible.” He asked what measures are being taken to bring these systems up to date.
Emran Mian, permanent secretary of the Department of Science, Innovation and Technology, responded. He pointed to the driving test booking service as one problematic area.
Improving the service
He explained: “One of the challenges around the system for booking your driving test online has been some challenges with the fact that it’s a legacy system. That is something that the Department for Transport is looking at as part of their investment plans, and their plans to improve that service.”
Driving tests are currently booked via the DVSA (Driver and Vehicle Standards Agency), which functions within the broader Department for Transport. Mr Mian admitted he wasn’t certain whether the fact that driving tests are arranged through an agency instead of a main Government department contributes to the problems surrounding outdated systems.
However, Mr Mian continued by noting that even “core Government departments” face difficulties due to their reliance on legacy systems. He stated: “Investment in updating these legacy systems is the thing that tends to get traded off when spend on data and digital is very, very tight.
“What departments will often then do is invest in the data and digital that deals with the service issue that is present there and then, rather than dealing with the legacy system.” In an effort to tackle this issue, Mr Mian said that his department is collaborating with other departments to ensure they invest in upgrading their legacy systems.
He also mentioned that his team is adopting “a much closer approach” to guarantee the Government departments implement the necessary improvements.
Changes to the driving test system
Changes are on the horizon for the driving test system. From spring 2026, new regulations will be introduced regarding the booking and management of driving tests.
Under the new system, only learner drivers will have the ability to book a test, meaning driving instructors will no longer be able to.
Learners will be limited to making two changes to their driving test appointment and will only be permitted to change the test centre to one close to their original choice.
The following actions will be considered as making a change:
- Changing the date or time
- Changing the test centre
- Swapping your appointment with another learner driver who already has a test booked.
For the latest money saving tips, shopping and consumer news, go to the new Everything Money website.
