03/06/2026
🚗 UK Driving Instructor Industry Weekly Roundup 🚗
Big week for changes hitting the DVSA driving test system. Here's what you need to know 👇
📌 Learners Must Now Book Their Own Tests (from 12 May)
Instructors and third parties can no longer book, change or cancel tests on behalf of pupils. Only the learner can manage their own booking.
📌 Test Centre Change Restrictions (from 9 June)
Next Monday brings new rules — learners will only be able to move their test to the same centre or one of the three nearest. No more test centre shopping across the country.
📌 Two Changes Max Per Booking (from 31 March)
Already in effect — learners can only change their test date twice. After that, it's cancel and rebook.
📌 Test Backlog Still Biting
Average waits hit 22 weeks in 2025, with the DVSA's 7-week target unlikely until 2027. Over 600,000 learners are waiting for a test slot.
📌 ADI Standards Checks on the Rise
The DVSA is ramping up Standards Checks in 2026 after a quieter period. If you haven't had one in a while, now's the time to refresh your knowledge.
📌 Minimum Learning Period Under Consultation
The DfT is consulting on introducing a minimum number of lessons and a mandatory gap between theory and practical tests. Could be a game-changer for how we plan training.
📌 EV Driving Lessons Gaining Ground
More instructors are adding EVs to their fleets — but availability is patchy. Passing in an EV means an automatic-only licence.
The industry's moving fast. Stay informed, adapt early, and keep delivering quality training. 💪
What's your take on the new booking rules — helping or hurting? Drop your thoughts below 👇
