DVSA Introduces New Driving Test Booking Rules for Learners
Drive Croydon keeps learners informed about important DVSA changes affecting practical driving test bookings across the UK.
Only Learners Can Now Book and Manage Their Driving Test
From 12 May 2026, the Driver and Vehicle Standards Agency has introduced new rules for practical driving test bookings. Under the updated system, only learner drivers can book and manage their own driving test.
This means that unofficial third-party booking services, cancellation finder services, resellers and other external companies are no longer allowed to book driving tests on behalf of learners.
The aim is simple: to put learners back in control and make the driving test booking system fairer.
Why Has DVSA Made This Change?
DVSA has introduced these rules as part of a wider crackdown on companies using bots and third-party systems to secure driving test slots and resell them at inflated prices.
Many learners have faced long waiting times and limited availability, while some unofficial services have charged more than the official DVSA fee. The new rules are designed to help stop exploitation and improve access for genuine learners who are ready to take their practical test.
Official DVSA Driving Test Fees
Learners should only pay the official DVSA practical driving test fee:
If someone is offering a driving test appointment for a much higher price, learners should be careful and use the official DVSA booking service only.
Further Restrictions from 9 June 2026
From 9 June 2026, learners will only be able to move their test to one of their 3 nearest driving test centres. This is intended to discourage people from booking tests in areas where they do not actually plan to take their exam.
What This Means for Drive Croydon Learners
At Drive Croydon, we continue to support our learners throughout their driving journey. While learners must now manage their own DVSA test bookings, our driving instructors can still provide guidance and preparation.
- We help learners prepare for the practical driving test.
- We advise when a learner is ready to take the test.
- We provide driving lessons in Croydon and nearby areas.
- We keep learners updated with important DVSA news and changes.
More Driving Tests and More Examiners
DVSA has also confirmed that it is increasing driving examiner capacity to help provide more practical driving tests. Between April 2025 and March 2026, nearly 2 million car driving tests took place in the UK.
The number of learners passing their practical driving test has also increased, with over 1 million passes recorded during the same period.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can my driving instructor book my test for me?
No. Under the new DVSA rules, only learner drivers can book and manage their own practical driving test.
Can Drive Croydon still help me prepare for my test?
Yes. We can support your driving journey, advise when you are ready and help you prepare for the practical driving test.
How much should I pay for a DVSA driving test?
The official DVSA fee is £62 for weekday tests and £75 for evening, weekend and bank holiday tests.
Where can I take driving lessons with Drive Croydon?
We provide driving lessons in Croydon, Purley, Coulsdon, Sanderstead, South Croydon, Thornton Heath, Norbury, Wallington, Mitcham, Bromley and surrounding areas.
Preparing for Your Practical Driving Test?
Book professional driving lessons with Drive Croydon and stay confident, prepared and up to date with the latest DVSA rules.
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