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The Driver and Vehicle Standards Agency (DVSA) is considering a crackdown on driving test bookings to prevent learner drivers from being exploited by fake accounts. The agency is seeking

views from the driver training industry and learner drivers on proposed changes aimed at tackling bots that bulk-buy test slots. The proposed changes include new rules on who can book and

manage driving tests, as well as how tests can be managed. The DVSA is also considering limiting or removing the ability to swap tests between different learners or locations. The goal is to

address the growing backlog of over 600,000 individuals waiting to take a driving test. Lillian Greenwood, Minister for the Future of Roads, emphasized the importance of driving, stating:

"Driving isn't just about getting from A to B - it's a vital link to jobs, social opportunities, and a stronger economy, which helps to deliver our Plan for Change." The

consultation aims to give learners more control over how and where they book their tests, while also enabling the DVSA to block bots from stealing test slots, reducing unnecessary delays.

The minister added: "Working with the DVSA, we want to make driving test booking fairer, protect all learners from exploitation, and reduce lengthy waiting times.", reports the

Express. Currently, driving instructors can book tests for their pupils, with assessments often swapped between learner drivers. However, the DVSA is looking to remove these abilities and

"stop the mechanisms that make reselling possible". A recent DVSA poll found almost a third of learners, newly-qualified drivers and their parents said they had used an unofficial

booking service in a bid to get earlier test dates. According to the DVSA, waiting times remain long owing to an increase in demand to get on the roads. Meanwhile, there is also low learner

driver confidence in driving test availability, resulting in changes in booking behaviour. Loveday Ruder, DVSA Chief Executive explained: "We've been working tirelessly to bring

down the driving test waiting times. To help tackle this, in December 2024 we announced a new plan, on whichwe're making good progress. "DVSA's goal is to make booking a

driving test easier and fairer for everyone while preventing excessive charges for learner drivers." However, the DVSA has stressed the new proposals will only be applied to practical

car driving tests. It means, all other tests such as checks on driving instructors, as well as motorcycle and theory assessments will not change. A spokesperson for the National Associations

Strategic Partnership (NASP) said: "The Driver Training industry welcomes this consultation as a key step in improving accessibility and usability of the test booking system for

legitimate users, but equally, as an important step towards preventing access by those seeking to exploit learners through the illegitimate sale of test slots at extortionate prices.

"We urge pupils, parents and trainers to respond to the consultation and ensure they are part of enabling better, more efficient and fairer solutions for booking driving tests in the

future."