New action to cut driving test waiting times

The measures which are designed to cut driving test waits were announced today by the Secretary of State for Transport at the Transport Select Committee of which local MP Alex Mayer is a leading member.

The new rules will mean third parties will no longer be able to hog slots and resell tests to desperate learners for profit.

Learners will only pay the actual fee DVSA charges – £62 on weekdays and £75 on evenings, weekends and bank holidays.

They will have to book at a nearby centre and will be allowed to make up to two changes to their test booking – including date, time or location – before needing to cancel and rebook.

Alex Mayer MP who has consistently raised the issue of improving access to driving tests said: “Local young people and new drivers have faced long waits and unfair costs to take their test. These steps will help restore fairness and confidence to the system.

“I know from talking to young people that getting a driving licence can make all the difference for accessing work, education and training. That’s why it’s so important that the system is fair, efficient and focused on learners – not profiteers.

There is still a lot more to do but this is a positive step.”

The number of driving tests carried out over summer 2025 increased compared to the previous year, and the number of trainers preparing new examiners has almost doubled.

Steve Gooding, Director of the RAC Foundation, also welcomed the move, saying it was“good to see steps being put in place to put a stop to those touting tests to frustrated learners”.