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Driving Tests

Answer

The Driver and Vehicle Standards Agency (DVSA) understand the vast majority of instructors who used the online booking service were doing so legitimately.  Changes to the rules, however, were critical to prevent the reselling of tests at inflated prices. Prior to the changes, DVSA introduced updated terms and conditions for use of the service driving instructors and trainers used to book and manage practical driving tests for their pupils, on 6 January 2025. Between then and 12 May 2026, DVSA issued 418 warnings, 663 suspensions, and closed 1178 business accounts, for misuse of the booking system.

DVSA conducted a full and open consultation in line with the Government’s consultation principles. The overarching principles for Government public consultations have been correctly followed before introducing these changes. Further information about those principles can be found on GOV.UK.

DVSA’s priority was to stop the exploitation of learners through the reselling of driving tests at inflated prices. The changes to the booking process are proportionate to achieve this.

The consultation data used to inform the changes has been analytically assured and details of the analysis process used was published in the response to the consultation on GOV.UK.

The De Minimis assessment was conducted in line with the Better Regulation Framework.  This provided a structured approach to decision making by evaluating the potential benefits, risks, and implications of different choices, in line with the better regulation framework guidance. The De Minimis Assessment has been published online and was reviewed by Departmental economists prior to publication.

DVSA is aware that some learners might need help with the online booking process, particularly those with accessibility requirements or learning disabilities, and will continue to ensure that the online booking system is accessible and meets government digital accessibility standards, in addition to offering telephone support through the customer service centre.

Although approved driving instructors and other third-parties are no longer permitted to book a test on behalf of a learner driver, they can offer support and guidance to help them with the booking process.

As well as changes to the booking system, DVSA continues to deploy enhanced bot protection to help mitigate automated systems from buying up tests unfairly. However, these applications constantly evolve and change. DVSA’s work on this is ongoing.

Secondary information

Type

Written question

Reference

19371

Session

2026-27

Grouped for answer

Yes

Subjects

Driving tests Regulation

Link

View this Written question on www.parliament.uk