Driving Test Waiting Times Hit Record Highs: Learners Face Delays for Both Theory and Practical Tests

Driver Training Ltd News | 3 October 2025

Learner drivers across the UK are facing record delays for both theory and practical driving test bookings, with some centres showing no availability for months. Here’s what’s going on — and what you can do about it.

Key points

• Theory test centres in busy areas are booking out several months ahead.
• Practical test waits commonly exceed six months, with some centres showing no dates at all.
• DVSA cites sustained post-pandemic demand, examiner shortages, and high rebooking rates.
• Watch the two-year theory test certificate validity: don’t let it expire before your practical.

What’s happening?

Driving test availability remains significantly above pre-pandemic waiting times. Demand that built up during lockdowns never fully eased, and although the DVSA has recruited more examiners and added extra testing hours at some locations, capacity still isn’t meeting demand.

Theory test slots that once appeared within weeks are now scarce in many cities. Some candidates are travelling further afield for earlier appointments. Practical tests are tougher still: at certain centres, the online system shows little to no availability for months, pushing learners towards cancellations and constant refreshing.

Driving Test Waiting Times Hit Record Highs Why it matters

Long waits can derail learning momentum and increase costs. The biggest risk for many is timing: the theory test pass certificate is valid for two years. If you can’t secure and pass your practical within that window, you’ll need to retake (and repay for) the theory test. Instructors are also feeling the pinch as pupils stretch lessons or pause altogether due to uncertain dates.

Driving Test Waiting Times Hit Record Highs What the DVSA says it’s doing

• Recruiting and training additional examiners.
• Extending testing hours and opening occasional overtime sessions where possible.
• Updating the online booking system to improve fairness and reduce automated “sniping” of cancellations.

These measures help, but in high-demand regions there’s still a gap between supply and demand.

Practical steps for learners (that work)

1. Book early and plan backward. As soon as you’re test-ready (or near to it), get a date in the diary and shape your lesson plan towards it.
2. Be flexible on location and time. Widen your search radius and consider weekday or early-morning slots.
3. Stay test-ready. Keep lessons regular. Long gaps lead to rusty skills and more pre-test catch-up.
4. Track your theory test expiry. Put the date in your calendar now; aim to pass the practical at least a month before expiry.
5. Use cancellations sensibly. Check frequently, but avoid third-party resellers charging above the official fee.
6. Know the standard. Revisit key DVSA priorities: observation at junctions, mirrors-signal-position-speed-look discipline, safe following distances, and appropriate speed — especially on new or unfamiliar routes.

Driving Test Waiting Times Hit Record Highs Advice for parents and ADIs

• Keep lessons purposeful. Short, focused sessions on common test faults (junctions, roundabouts, meeting traffic, reversing control) maintain confidence over a long wait.
• Run mock tests. A realistic assessment every few weeks keeps standards sharp and highlights gaps early.
• Set milestones. Agree specific goals (e.g., independent drive without prompts, flawless mirror routine) to maintain momentum.

What happens next

Unless examiner numbers increase further and test centre capacity expands, waits are likely to remain elevated into 2026 in pressure spots. For now, the winning formula is traditional and proven: steady preparation, disciplined practice, and smart booking tactics.

Useful to know

• Official booking for both theory and practical tests is via GOV.UK only, at the standard DVSA fee.
• Your instructor can advise whether you’re genuinely test-ready — don’t rush to a date you can’t back up with consistent standards.

By Chris Published 3 October 2025 Updated 3 October 2025 Reading time: 4 min

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