If you’re currently learning to drive or looking to book your practical test, the rules just changed. From today (May 12, 2026), the DVSA is rolling out new measures designed to kill off the "black market" for test slots and get waiting lists under control.
For months, learners have been frustrated by six-month waiting lists and "bots" snapping up slots as soon as they go live. Here is what the new rules mean for you and how they affect your path to getting on the road.
You Are Now in the Driver’s Seat (For Bookings)
The biggest change is who can book your test. As of today, only the learner driver can book, change, or swap their own practical test.
Under the old system, driving instructors could book tests on behalf of their students. However, a BBC investigation found that some instructors were selling their login details to "touts" for kickbacks. These touts then used bots to bulk-buy slots and resell them on WhatsApp and Facebook for as much as £500—nearly ten times the official £62 weekday fee.
The Rule: You must now book the test yourself. You can still have someone help you (like a parent or friend), but you must be present during the booking, and all confirmations must go directly to your email or phone.
Limited Changes to Your Slot
Gone are the days of shuffling your test date indefinitely. Since March 31, the DVSA has capped the number of times you can move your appointment:
- Two Changes Only: You are now allowed a maximum of two changes to your booking (this includes changing the date, the time, or the test centre).
- What Counts? Swapping your slot with another learner also counts as one of your two changes.
- Exceeding the Limit: If you need to change your booking a third time, you’ll have to cancel the test entirely and book a fresh one.
- Refunds: You’ll still get a refund if you cancel at least 10 working days before your test date.
Stay Local: No More "Test Centre Hopping"
In an effort to stop people booking tests at random centres hundreds of miles away just to get a date, a new rule kicks in on June 9.
If you want to move your test location, you will only be allowed to move it to one of the three test centres closest to your original booking. The DVSA is encouraging everyone to only book at a centre they actually intend to use.
Our Advice
- Talk to your Instructor: Before you book, make sure your instructor thinks you’re ready. You’ll need their reference number when booking to ensure they are actually available on your chosen date.
- Stick to Official Channels: Don't be tempted by "fast-track" slots on social media. They are often scams, and with these new security measures, they are becoming much harder for touts to manage.
- Check your Email: Ensure your contact details are up to date on the DVSA system so you don't miss your confirmation.
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