Learners will be in control (Image: Catherine Falls Commercial via Getty Images)
The most recent modifications to driving tests take effect on Tuesday, May 12, 2026, building on alterations introduced earlier this year. They represent significant steps by the Driver and Vehicle Standards Agency (DVSA) to address issues faced by learners.
The modifications are designed to crack down on block-bookings made by fraudsters and only affect car driving tests in England, Scotland and Wales. They do not cover other categories of tests.
In March, regulations were updated so that learners could only amend their test booking twice rather than the previous six times. Now, additional restrictions are being introduced.
They include a major change regarding who is permitted to book the test. From Tuesday, only the learner will be authorised to do so, with instructors no longer permitted to book on their pupils’ behalf.
Gov.uk states: “From May 12, 2026, you will need to book your car driving test yourself on GOV.UK. Your driving instructor will not be allowed to book it for you.
Instructors will no longer be able to book (Image: Catherine Falls Commercial via Getty Images)
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“Before you book, speak to your driving instructor to agree that you’re ready to take the test; ask them for their driving instructor reference number – you can enter this when you book to make sure your instructor is available.”
It added that when learners arrange their test, they should only reserve a slot at a test centre they plan to attend, as they will only be permitted to relocate their test to neighbouring centres. They should select a date by which they realistically anticipate being prepared, as they will only be permitted to make two amendments to their appointment. They should provide their driving instructor’s reference number.
From May 12, 2026, those making bookings will need to confirm that they are the learner who will be sitting the test and accept a new set of terms and conditions.
Matt Crole-Rees, motoring expert at Confused.com, said: “From tomorrow (Tuesday), new DVSA rules mean only the learner taking the test will be able to book, change or cancel their practical driving test appointment. This is another big shift for learners trying to get on the roads, especially following the earlier March changes that reduced the number of booking amendments allowed from six to two.
“While these are designed to reduce the use of unofficial websites to help secure earlier test dates, the latest rules could make it harder for learners to feel in control.
“Our research shows that since 2021, around six million driving tests have been taken, but only about half resulted in a pass. Pass rates can also vary hugely between test centres, ranging from as low as 33% to as high as 80%. For learners in lower-performing areas or places with long waiting times, having less flexibility around bookings could mean more retakes, more waiting and higher overall costs.
“With these changes in mind, it’s more important than ever for learners to think before they book their test.
“Plan carefully, only take the test when really prepared, and understand how local test centres perform before booking in.
“Our driving test pass rate calculator helps learners compare nearby centres so they can make a more informed decision before booking their test for the first time.”