Long Wait Times

The Transport Secretary Heidi Alexander has pledged to reduce the average wait time to book the practical driving test to no more than seven weeks by the end of next summer. This has been prompted by problems that learner drivers are having booking their test. The average current wait time is 22 weeks, with three quarters of centres at the maximum wait time of 24 weeks. The BBC reported about the problems learners around the country are facing with long wait times.

Why is this happening?

So what has caused this problem? The pandemic caused a need for extra tests for a while, but the number of tests being taken every year has now reached pre-pandemic levels and the backlog shouldn’t be a problem anymore.

The increased demand during this period may have inspired a new industry of bots that block book tests that are then sold on for an increased fee. The DVSA are aware of this happening and are looking at ways of stopping the practice. Ideally learner drivers should book their own test through the DVSAs website when they are ready to take the test.

How can we help?

So what would we recommend? As the wait times are so long it’s a good idea to be well prepared for your test. You don’t want to have to re-book another test! At Always Pass we always recommend a mock test which will get you used to the format of the test, and expose any areas you need to work on. All of our instructors are here to support their learners, so if you need extra practice on one aspect of driving we will help you. Passing first time is always our aim, we want you to be a great, confident and safe driver.