Learner drivers still waiting 20 weeks to book tests

Learner drivers across the UK are facing significant delays when trying to book practical driving tests, with an average waiting period of 20 weeks, or about five months, according to recent figures from the Driver and Vehicle Standards Agency (DVSA). This is a slight improvement from the 20.2-week average in the previous month, but the median wait time between booking and taking the test remains unchanged at 11.1 weeks.

The DVSA had initially set a goal to reduce the average waiting time to seven weeks by the end of the previous year, but this target has now been pushed back to summer 2026.

Transport Secretary Heidi Alexander made the target revision, but later admitted that even this revised timeline might not be achievable. The DVSA implemented several changes to its practical driving test booking system, including allowing only the learner driver to book their test, which eliminates the possibility of instructors or third parties booking tests using the learner's details.

Additionally, learners are restricted to booking tests at only their three local test centres, rather than selecting a centre anywhere in the country.

One learner, Lucy Rend from southeast London, has been preparing for her driving test for two-and-a-half years and recently took the test on Thursday. Despite the lengthy waiting period, Lucy feels under pressure to pass her test, as securing a slot has proven to be extremely challenging. She often had to wake up at 5:45 AM to apply for tests at 6 AM, only to find herself at the back of a queue of 21,000 other drivers. Lucy believes she has to pass this test to avoid going through the entire process again.

Her friends have encountered similar difficulties, with many giving up on booking tests altogether. The DVSA reported that over 2.13 million practical driving tests took place in the 12 months leading up to August 2026, making it the highest rolling 12-month figure on record. DVSA Chief Executive Beverley Warmington stated that while there is still more work to be done, the current figures indicate that their plan is working.

Carly Brookfield, the chief executive of the Driving Instructors Association, acknowledged the progress made but noted that the pressure on learners and instructors remains significant. She emphasized the need for a testing service that is readily accessible when learners and instructors need it. Adem Veli, a driving instructor with 16 years of experience, pointed out that the extensive waiting periods can have a detrimental impact on learners' confidence.

He expressed concern that learners who fail their test and still have to wait another six months to retake it could experience significant setbacks in their driving confidence.