Next steps for changes to the driving test booking service

Changes to Car Driving Test Booking Rules (Spring 2026)

New rules are being introduced for car driving tests only (other test types are not affected). These changes will significantly alter how tests are booked, managed, and changed.

Key Rule Changes

1. Fewer Changes Allowed

• From 31 March 2026

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• You can only make 2 changes to your test (currently 6)

• Changes include:

  • Date or time

  • Test centre

  • Swapping with another learner

If you exceed this, you’ll need to cancel and rebook.

👉 You’ll still get a full refund if you cancel at least 10 working days in advance.

2. Only You Can Book and Manage Your Test

• From 12 May 2026

• You must:

  • Book your own test

  • Change, cancel, or swap it yourself

    
    

❗ It will be illegal for anyone else (including driving instructors) to do this for you.

You’ll also need to:

• Confirm you are the learner taking the test

• Agree to new terms and conditions

3. Limited Test Centre Moves

• From 9 June 2026

• You can only move your test to:

  • The 3 nearest test centres

  • Or back to your original test centre

  
  

This rule applies based on where your test is currently booked, not where it was first booked.

Booking Your Test – What to Know

Before booking:

• Speak to your instructor to confirm you're ready

• Get their reference number (to check availability)

When booking:

• Choose a realistic date

• Pick a test centre you’re happy to use

• Remember: your move options will be limited later

What Counts as a Change?

✔ Counts:

• Changing date/time

• Changing test centre

• Swapping with another learner

❌ Does NOT count:

• Updating contact details

• Adding/removing instructor reference

• DVSA-made changes (e.g. bad weather)

If You Already Have a Booking

• The new rules apply based on your test location on 9 June 2026

• You will only be able to move to nearby centres from that point

Helping Someone Book

You can still help a friend or family member, but:

• They must be present with you

• They should complete as much as possible themselves

• Use their own (or accessible) contact details

Impact on Driving Instructors

From 12 May 2026, instructors:

• Cannot book, change, or swap tests for pupils

• Existing bookings remain valid

They can still:

• Set their availability

• Be linked to bookings via their reference number

Final Thoughts

These changes put full responsibility on learners and limit flexibility.

Key takeaway:

• Book only when you’re ready

• Choose your test centre carefully

• Use your 2 changes wisely