The Driver and Vehicle Standards Agency (DVSA) has cancelled nearly 500 driving tests after detecting they were booked in violation of its terms and conditions. The agency cancelled 450 tests and placed 4,034 online booking suspensions on the system as part of a tougher stance against misuse.
New Rules to Protect Learners
The DVSA's latest efforts aim to create a fairer booking system following changes introduced in spring 2026. These include limits on test amendments, requiring learners to book their own tests, and restricting test locations. The rules are designed to protect learner drivers from exploitation and make it easier for the DVSA to identify breaches.
Roads and Buses Minister Simon Lightwood stated: "Learners should focus on getting test-ready, not fighting an unfair booking system or paying over the odds to third-party touts. By cancelling dodgy tests and suspending access for those misusing the system, the DVSA sends a clear message that exploitation will not be tolerated."
DVSA Chief Executive Comments
Beverley Warmington, DVSA Chief Executive, added: "We promised to make the booking system fairer, and we have kept that promise. These reforms ensure tests go to genuine learners, not those who profit from exploiting them. Today's action shows we have the tools and determination to enforce the new rules."
The DVSA has also reported evidence of test reselling on social media and mobile apps, leading to the removal of 17 apps from popular stores and shutdown of related social media accounts.
Increased Test Availability
Between June 2025 and May 2026, the DVSA delivered over 240,000 additional driving tests compared to the previous year, supported by the highest number of examiners in several years.
Key Changes in 2026
- March 31: Learners limited to two changes per booking.
- May 12: Only the learner can book, change, swap, or cancel their own test. Unofficial apps, bots, or automated services are prohibited.
- June 9: Learners may only move their test to one of the three nearest test centres. For new bookings, the three nearest centres are based on the original booking location; for existing bookings, it applies to the location on June 9.
The DVSA warns that unofficial services pose risks, including loss of control over personal data. Where breaches are found, the DVSA may contact the learner, issue warnings, restrict online booking, cancel tests, or consider legal action. Affected learners received a full refund and were asked to call the DVSA to arrange a new booking.
