As part of the push to reduce waiting times, the government is implementing several changes to the driving test booking process.

The key change is how many times a learner can change their test date. Currently, you or your instructor can book and change your test up to six times.

However, from 31 March, you’ll be the only who can book or change your driving test slot. Importantly, you will only be able to change the times and location of your test twice. If you go over this limit, your test will be cancelled and you’ll need to queue to book a new one.

Changes you can make to your slot include:

  • Adjusting the date and time of your test
  • Swapping your slot with another learner
  • Changing the location of the test centre

It’s important to note that the rule about changing the location of your test centre will be introduced later in the spring (we’ll let you when).

Currently you can still change your test slot to any test centre in the country. However, once the new rule goes live, you’ll only be able to change to a test centre near to the one you originally booked.

Booking your test

As your instructor will soon no longer be able to book a test on your behalf, use these tips to ensure you get your booking right:

  • Decide with your instructor if you’re actually ready to take your test - they are the best possible judge of your driving skills (not your self-confidence!).
  • Ensure you have your driving instructor’s reference number when you book - this is to guarantee your hard-working instructor doesn’t get double-booked.
  • While your instructor will no longer be able to book, change or swap a test for you, they will be still be able to access the online service to mark out their availability for your test.

Why make the changes?

There are a host of reasons that have prompted the government to introduce the changes. The main aim is to make the system fairer for everyone, stop third parties from gaming the system and reduce the amount of churn caused by, for example, learners swapping test locations.

As we’re all aware, lengthy waiting times are making life miserable for everyone so any changes to the processes delivering the driving test can only be good thing at this stage. Fingers crossed.

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