12/06/2026
DVSA Cracks Down on Driving Test Booking Rule Breakers
The DVSA has stepped up its efforts to make the driving test booking system fairer for learner drivers across the UK.
Since 12 May 2026, only the learner driver taking the test has been allowed to book, change, swap, or cancel their practical driving test. This change was introduced to tackle the growing problem of unofficial booking services, social media sellers, and third-party apps manipulating the system.
450 Driving Tests Cancelled
The DVSA has already cancelled 450 driving tests that were booked in breach of the new rules.
Investigations found that these tests had been booked using payment cards linked to large numbers of bookings for different learner drivers. This provided evidence that the tests had not been booked directly by the learner driver, which is now a requirement under DVSA rules.
The DVSA has confirmed that it will continue monitoring the booking system and cancelling tests where there is evidence of rule-breaking.
Over 4,000 Online Booking Suspensions
The DVSA has also placed 4,034 online booking suspensions on driving licence holders.
A suspension means that the learner can no longer book, manage, swap, or cancel tests online. Instead, they must contact the DVSA customer service centre directly.
The DVSA has now confirmed that these suspensions remain in place for 12 months.
Unofficial Apps Removed
Another major step has been the removal of unofficial driving test booking apps.
The DVSA has successfully worked with Apple and Google to remove 17 apps that were found to be breaching the terms and conditions of the driving test booking service.
The agency has stated that it will continue monitoring both platforms and report any further apps that attempt to operate outside the rules.
Important Advice for Learner Drivers
The DVSA is urging all learner drivers to follow three simple rules:
1. Do not use unofficial apps or websites to find or book driving tests.
2. Do not buy driving tests from people advertising on social media.
3. Only use the official GOV.UK website to book and manage driving tests.
What Could Happen If You Ignore This Advice?
Learner drivers who use unofficial services risk:
β’ Having their driving test cancelled.
β’ Losing access to online booking services for 12 months.
β’ Losing hundreds of pounds paid to unofficial providers.
β’ Having their personal information exposed to scammers.
β’ Delays in obtaining a driving licence.
Stoke Driving Schoolβs Advice
At Stoke Driving School, we strongly recommend that all learners use only the official GOV.UK booking service.
Before booking a practical test, always speak to your driving instructor to make sure you are test-ready and that your chosen test date works with your instructorβs availability.
Once you have booked your test, forward the confirmation email to your instructor as soon as possible so that the date can be secured in their diary.
The DVSAβs latest actions show they are serious about protecting the integrity of the booking system and ensuring that genuine learner drivers have fair access to driving tests.
By following the official process, you can avoid unnecessary stress, protect your money, and ensure your test booking remains secure.