Overview

• 81% of test centres are operating at the 24-week maximum, leaving candidates with an average wait of 22 weeks
• The DVSA has suspended over 1,100 accounts and closed more than 1,500 business accounts since January 2023 for booking-service misuse
• Learners report losing job offers and apprenticeship starts or paying brokers up to £200 for resold slots when official dates are unavailable
• The Hither Green test centre in London was closed this year due to low-traffic neighbourhood schemes and repetitive test routes, intensifying demand at neighbouring sites
• The agency is reviewing responses to its seven-point recovery plan and targets a seven-week average wait by summer 2026 through expanded examiner capacity and an upgraded booking platform