15/06/2026
There have been a number of driving test changes made by DVSA over the last few months. This includes the number of times you can swap a test, what location you can swap your test to and only the student can book and mange their test. This is to try and reduce the backlog and waiting times of tests. Below are some of the actions taken by DVSA where they have identified tests that have not followed the rules:-
Taking stronger action against those breaking the rules
As you know, from 12 May 2026 only learner drivers have been allowed to book, change, swap or cancel a car driving test.
This rule change has given us new powers to take direct action against those who misuse the booking service. And we are using those powers to make things fairer for all learner drivers.
Cancelling driving tests
We have started to cancel driving test that we have identified as being booked or managed outside of the new rules.
So far, we have cancelled 450 tests.
They were cancelled as they were booked using a payment card that has been used to pay for lots of driving tests for different learner drivers. This means that the tests were not booked by the learner driver taking the test. Our terms and conditions allow us to cancel tests where this happens.
We are continually monitoring the booking service and will keep cancelling tests where we have evidence of bookings made in breach of the law and our terms and conditions.
This will not stop.
We have placed 4,034 online booking suspensions on the system
A suspension means the driving licence holder can no longer book or manage tests online. They will need to call our customer service centre instead.
We’ve also updated our guidance to confirm that a suspension stays in place for 12 months.
We have reported apps to Apple and Google
We have successfully removed 17 apps from on the Apple and Google platforms that break the terms and conditions of our booking service. We will continue to monitor the platforms and report any new apps to have them removed as well.
Help us get the message to your pupils
Please remind your pupils of 3 simple things:
Do not use unofficial apps or websites to find or book a test slot.
Do not book a test through anyone on social media.
Only ever use GOV.UK - it is free and secure.
If they ignore this advice, the consequences are serious.
DVSA can suspend their online booking access. Their test can be cancelled. They could lose hundreds of pounds with no way to get it back.
And once they hand over their personal data to a scammer, they have no control over what happens to it.
We’ve published guidance for your pupils about this.
Find out more about the risks of unofficial driving test booking services and social media scams.
Thank you for your continued support in helping to make the system fairer for every learner.
