Learners need to be more prepared, according to DVSA

The Driver and Vehicle Standards Agency (DVSA) is changing the process for learner drivers. Under the impression that a bunch of incapable learners are booking test slots and failing, where a prepared and competent learner could succeed, the agency is implementing measures to whittle down the queue. 

From summer 2023, those failing their tests will have to wait 28 days, instead of the previous 10, to rebook a new test. The DVSA hopes this will both give those failing more time to prepare for their subsequent test and also make sure that learners are only booking their test when they feel absolutely confident of their driving skills.

Having drawn the conclusion that “more than half are not ready to take their test or drive safely and responsibly on their own”, the DVSA aims to improve pass rates. The measures are being implemented following public consultation in 2022. 

The agency has also decided that if learners wish to cancel their test, they will have to give 10 days’ notice, instead of the original three — or risk losing their test fee. It’ll also give those booking a chance to take advantage of a last-minute cancellation.

Ten days is hardly last minute. While it seems brutal, DVSA’s stats from February 2023 show over half of learner drivers are failing. More worryingly, one in eight examiners are physically intervening on grounds of safety, during tests. 

Unsurprisingly, 37 per cent of driving test examiners support the measure. Yet, around 42 per cent of learners reckoned the new measures won’t change their behaviour anyway.

In our experience, all the best drivers never pass first time anyway...