28/07/2025
Let’s talk about the driving test backlog…
It’s still a big issue, and to be honest, it’s starting to wear a lot of people down. Learners,
instructors, even parents trying to plan ahead, everyone’s feeling it.
Here’s what I’ve been seeing lately:
• Test wait times around here are roughly 25 weeks and that's mid January (if your lucky enough to get one)
• I’ve had huge problems booking and finding tests for my own pupils that have recently passed their theory.
• Learners are feeling more pressure than ever
• For us instructors, it’s harder to plan ahead or give students a clear idea of when
they’ll be ready
Everyone’s situation is a bit different, but it all comes back to the same thing…it’s
frustrating.
Here’s how I feel about it:
Tests should only be booked in the postcode area you live in You MUST have taken some professional instruction from an ADI or a PDI (trainee instructor) to advise whether your ready for your driving test. The system in my own opinionis at breaking point with instructors up and down the UK having the same issues. I can't start new business as my current learners can't get tests so have to reduce their time in the car because of the financial outlay of lessons. Those that fail their tests struggle to find tests to resit so again can't take on a new pupil till one leaves, this in turn is stressful for both pupil and instructor.
End of the day, we all want the same thing. A fair system where learners get a proper
chance to succeed. No stress, no dodgy sites charging silly money for test slots, and no
feeling like you’re stuck in limbo.
If you’re a learner, a parent, or an instructor dealing with the same stuff, feel free to
share what it’s been like for you.
Drop a comment with your experience with driving tests, sometimes just hearing other
people’s experiences helps a bit.
