A new rule for driving test bookings is now in force in the UK, aimed at tackling the issue of automated bots and third-party touts. The change, which came into effect on June 9, restricts learner drivers who want to swap a test booking to switching it to one of only the three centres nearest their original booking location. This measure is designed to prevent automated software from booking slots in remote areas and then switching them to more in-demand centres for profit.
Background of the changes
Since May 12, driving instructors and third parties, including unofficial test booking and cancellation finder services, have been banned from making bookings for someone else. This means only learner drivers can book and manage their own driving test. Prior to that, from March 31, the number of changes allowed to a driving test booking was reduced from six to two.
Costs and requirements
The cost of a practical driving test is £62 on weekdays and £75 on weekends, bank holidays, and weekday evenings. The driving theory test costs £23 and is valid for two years.
Government response
Simon Lightwood, minister for roads and buses, said: "This Government inherited record waiting times and a huge backlog of learners waiting for tests, with the system seeing too many people paying over the odds to third-party touts. But we’re taking action and seeing results." He noted that almost two million tests have been delivered over the past year, including more than 158,000 extra tests since June 2025, and that military driving examiners are now helping boost capacity across the country.
Beverley Warmington, DVSA chief executive, said: "Our priority is to stop learners being exploited by third parties, put them in control of their driving test and make the process fairer by clamping down on businesses that re-sell tests at inflated prices." She added that the new measures will help free up appointments for genuine learners ready to take their test.
Future outlook
The DVSA is determined to reduce waiting times further, building on the additional tests delivered and the highest number of driving examiners since 2018, supported by military examiners already carrying out tests.
