Overview

• The DVSA’s May 2025 consultation seeks to overhaul car test booking rules to prevent automated bots from hoarding slots for resale at inflated prices.
• A backlog of 603,000 future driving tests was recorded at the end of April 2025, with average waits stretching to 20 weeks for learners.
• Almost one in three survey respondents admitted paying around £122 for unofficial services to secure earlier test dates.
• Key proposals include removing instructors’ ability to book or swap tests on behalf of learners in an effort to close loopholes enabling exploitation.
• Feedback gathered by the July 23 deadline will inform reforms alongside the DVSA’s existing seven-point plan and examiner recruitment drive, with results due within three months.