The Driver and Vehicle Standards Agency (DVSA) is introducing significant changes to driving test rules, effective from Tuesday, May 12, 2026. These measures build on modifications implemented earlier this year and are designed to address difficulties faced by learners, particularly in relation to block-bookings by scammers. The changes apply only to car driving tests in England, Scotland, and Wales, and do not extend to other test categories.
Key Changes from May 12, 2026
From this date, only the learner themselves will be permitted to book, amend, or cancel their practical driving test appointment. Driving instructors will no longer be authorised to book on behalf of their students. This marks a major shift in the booking process, aiming to reduce the use of unofficial websites that secure earlier test dates.
Booking Process and Restrictions
According to Gov.uk, learners must book their car driving test themselves on GOV.UK. Before booking, they should speak to their driving instructor to confirm they are ready for the test and obtain their instructor's reference number, which can be entered during booking to ensure instructor availability. Learners are advised to only book a slot at a test centre they genuinely plan to use, as they will only be permitted to transfer their test to neighbouring centres. Additionally, they should select a date they realistically anticipate being prepared for, as they will only be allowed to make two amendments to their appointment. From May 12, 2026, those booking will need to confirm that they are the learner who will be sitting the test and accept a new set of terms and conditions.
Expert Commentary
Matt Crole-Rees, motoring expert at Confused.com, commented: "From tomorrow (Tuesday), new DVSA rules mean only the learner taking the test will be able to book, change or cancel their practical driving test appointment. This is another big shift for learners trying to get on the roads, especially following the earlier March changes that reduced the number of booking amendments allowed from six to two. While these are designed to reduce the use of unofficial websites to help secure earlier test dates, the latest rules could make it harder for learners to feel in control."
He added: "Our research shows that since 2021, around six million driving tests have been taken, but only about half resulted in a pass. Pass rates can also vary hugely between test centres, ranging from as low as 33% to as high as 80%. For learners in lower-performing areas or places with long waiting times, having less flexibility around bookings could mean more retakes, more waiting and higher overall costs. With these changes in mind, it's more important than ever for learners to think before they book their test. Plan carefully, only take the test when really prepared, and understand how local test centres perform before booking in."
Background and Impact
In March 2026, regulations were introduced allowing learners to amend their test booking only twice instead of the previous six times. The latest restrictions build on this, aiming to crack down on scammers who block-book test slots. The DVSA hopes these changes will ensure that test slots are used by genuine learners and reduce the black market for test bookings. However, experts warn that learners in areas with long waiting times or low pass rates may face additional challenges, potentially leading to more retakes and higher costs.
