DVSA announces new driving test changes for learners from spring 2026

DVSA announces new driving test changes for learners from spring 2026 Newspoint | 2025-12-11 15:39:51

The DVLA (Driver and Vehicle Standards Agency) has announced significant changes to how learner drivers book and manage their car driving tests, with the new regulations set to come into force from spring 2026 across Scotland, England and Wales.

On the GOV.UK it notes that there is no exact date for when the changes are coming into force. However, they do know that the changes which will affect how people book and manage their car driving test will be introduced from spring 2026.

According to updated guidance published on the official UK Government website on December 9, 2025, learner drivers will be required to book their own driving tests, meaninginstructors will no longer be permitted to arrange appointments on their behalf.

In addition to this, learners will only be allowed to make a total of two changes to their driving test appointment. The DVSA have confirmed the changes will be classed as changing the date or time of your test, changing the test centre as well as swapping your appointment with another learner driver who already has a test booked.

"If you need to make more changes after you have used your two changes, you have to cancel your test and rebook it. You'll get a full refund if you give at least 10 full working days' notice", it confirms.

Additionally, learners will only be permitted to relocate their test to centres in close proximity to their original booking location. It is important to note that these changes apply exclusively to car driving tests and do not affect other types of driving examinations.

At present, motorists looking to change their driving testface a fee if they fail to provide sufficient notice - 10 full working days for car tests or three full working days for other categories.

It confirms: "Monday to Saturday count as working days but Sundays and public holidays do not."

At present, "you can change your appointment up to six times. If you need to make more changes after that, you have to cancel your test and rebook it." But remember this will change soon. You can read about the current rules here.