Learner drivers face average 20 week wait to book practical tests

Learner drivers in Britain are waiting an average of 20 weeks to book a practical driving test, according to August data from the Driver and Vehicle Standards Agency (DVSA). This represents a marginal improvement from the 20.2 week average recorded in July, while the wait time between booking and sitting the test remains unchanged at 11.1 weeks. The DVSA originally aimed to reduce average waiting times to seven weeks by the end of last year. Transport Secretary Heidi Alexander later pushed this target to summer 2026 before admitting that the goal would not be possible.

To address the delays, the DVSA implemented several changes to the booking system. Only the learner driver can now book their own test, which prevents instructors or third parties from using learner details. Additionally, learners are restricted to booking at their three local test centres, and there are now limits on how many times a test date can be swapped. These measures were introduced partly to combat the use of automated software to hoard slots for resale on the black market.

Despite the wait times, the DVSA reported that over 2.13 million practical tests were conducted in the 12 months leading up to August 2026, marking the highest rolling annual figure on record. DVSA chief executive Beverley Warmington stated that the figures show the current plan is working, although she acknowledged that waiting times remain too long in many areas.

Industry representatives and learners have expressed continued concern. Carly Brookfield, chief executive of the Driving Instructors Association, noted that while the increase in tests is progress, the pressure on learners and instructors remains real. Some instructors report that the long waits negatively impact learner confidence and leave students vulnerable to scams from test touts.