The number of test centres with a 24-week waiting time – the maximum possible – nearly doubled over the period, from 94 to 183. As of February, only 14 centres had waiting times at or below seven weeks, which is the DVSA’s nationwide target for the end of the year. “Bringing down driving test waiting times is vital to ensure a lack of driving licence does not become an ongoing barrier for young people trying to access education and employment. A DVSA spokesperson said: “Car practical test waiting times remain high due to an increase in demand and low customer confidence in driving test availability, resulting in a change in customers’ booking behaviour. “We continue to work on implementing our seven-point plan to reduce waiting times and encouraging learner drivers to only book their driving test when their instructor agrees they are ready.

Source: The Times March 30, 2025 23:11 UTC