DVSA Driving Test Waiting Times

Waiting times can have a significant impact on your plans, whether you're a learner driver booking your first test, someone needing to retake or you need transport for employment. The likelihood is that you will be waiting weeks to undertake your practical exam which can lead to additional stress, anxiety and loss of confidence.

Over the past few years the Driver and Vehicle Standards Agency (DVSA) has been implementing plans to shorten the length by both increasing the number of qualified examiners and test centres, plus also offering test bookings outside of traditional hours including weekends and evenings.

The fact however remains that with an increasing amount of people learning to drive every year, obtaining your full driving licence is going to take time.

The average waiting time to book a driving test in the UK is now 19.3 weeks. Which has risen by over 5 weeks on average over the last year.

What affects waiting times?

1. Location: Areas with higher population densities or more driving test centres may have shorter waiting times compared to more rural or less populated areas.

2. Demand: The volume of bookings at each test centre plays a crucial role in determining waiting times. Centres with high demand often have longer waiting periods, while those with fewer bookings might offer quicker availability.

3. Time of Year: Seasonal fluctuations can affect waiting times, which may be longer during peak periods such as summer and early autumn when many learners aim to pass their test before the end of the school year or university term.

4. Test Centre Capacity: The number of available examiners and the number of driving tests scheduled each day also impact waiting times. Centres with higher capacity may offer quicker test dates compared to those with limited resources.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I choose a different driving test centre if the waiting time is too long?

Yes, you can choose a different driving test centre to potentially reduce your waiting time. If you have flexibility with location, searching for centres in less busy areas or those with higher test capacity might help you find a sooner available date.

How far in advance should I book my driving test?

It is generally advisable to book your driving test as early as possible to secure your preferred date. Booking well in advance also provides a better chance of getting an earlier test date, especially during peak times.

What should I do if I need to reschedule?

You can reschedule through the DVSA website or by contacting your local driving test centre. Be aware that rescheduling might result in a longer waiting time depending on the availability of new dates.

Are there any tips for reducing my waiting time for a driving test?

• Book your test early and prepare to be flexible with your location.

• Check for cancellations or shorter waiting times at different test centres.

• Prepare thoroughly for your test to avoid the need for multiple bookings.

How do I book my driving test?

1. Visit the DVSA website: Go to the official DVSA driving test booking page.

2. Log in or create an account: You will need to log in using your personal details or create an account if you don’t already have one.

3. Provide your details: Enter your driving licence number, National Insurance number, and personal details.

4. Choose a test centre: Select your preferred test centre from the list provided. You can search by location.

5. Select a date and time: Choose a suitable date and time from the available slots.

6. Pay the fee: Pay the driving test fee using a credit or debit card.

7. Confirm your booking: Review your details and confirm your booking. You will receive a confirmation email with your test details.