31/03/2026
The Driver and Vehicle Standards Agency (DVSA) is implementing a phased rollout of major changes to the car driving test booking system starting in spring 2026. These measures are designed to stop "bots" and third-party resellers from hoarding slots and to make the system fairer for learners.
GOV.UK
GOV.UK
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Key Changes & Effective Dates
31 March 2026: Two-Change Limit
Learners are now restricted to a maximum of 2 changes per booking, reduced from the previous limit of six.
A "change" includes altering the date, time, or test centre, or swapping with another learner.
Note: If you reach this limit and still need to move your test, you must cancel the booking and start again.
12 May 2026: Learner-Only Bookings
Only the learner driver taking the test will be permitted to book, change, or cancel their appointment.
It will be against the law for driving instructors or third-party services to book or manage tests for pupils.
Instructors will transition to an availability management service to show learners when they are free for tests.
9 June 2026: Geographical Restrictions
When moving a booked test, learners will only be allowed to choose from the 3 nearest test centres to their original booking.
This is intended to prevent users from booking "placeholder" slots in quiet areas only to swap them into high-demand locations later.
GOV.UK
GOV.UK
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Additional Rules to Note
Refund Policy: To get a full refund when cancelling a test, you must now give at least 10 full working days' notice.
Resetting Changes: If the DVSA has to change your test (e.g., due to bad weather), your 2-change allowance will be reset, though you may need to call to make these extra changes.
Security: The DVSA is exploring enhanced identity checks, potentially integrating with GOV.UK One Login, to ensure only the licence holder can access their booking.
