The Driver and Vehicle Standards Agency (DVSA) has cancelled 450 driving tests and placed 4,034 online booking suspensions since June 9, as part of a crackdown on misuse of the booking system. The agency stated that these tests were booked in breach of its terms and conditions.
The DVSA's latest measures follow changes introduced in spring 2026, including limits on changing test details, requirements for learners to book their own tests, and new restrictions on test locations. The agency is now better equipped to detect patterns of misuse, such as payment cards being used to book multiple tests for different learners.
Roads and Buses Minister Simon Lightwood said: 'Learners should be focusing on getting test-ready, not fighting an unfair booking system or paying over the odds to third-party touts. DVSA's action to cancel dodgy tests is so important.' Beverley Warmington, DVSA Chief Executive, added: 'We promised to make the driving test booking system fairer, and we have kept that promise.'
The DVSA has also been reporting evidence of test reselling activity on social media and mobile apps, leading to 17 apps being removed from major app stores and the shutdown of social media accounts advertising these services. Between June 2025 and May 2026, the agency delivered more than 240,000 additional driving tests compared with the previous year.
Affected learners received a full refund and were asked to call DVSA to arrange a new booking. The agency warns that unofficial apps and booking services carry significant risks, including loss of control over personal data.
