The Driver and Vehicle Standards Agency (DVSA) has issued further clarification on the driving test booking rules update, confirming how the new system will operate and addressing earlier errors in published information.
These changes form part of wider reforms to the booking process, with several key dates and updates now confirmed.
Corrections to test centre lists
DVSA has acknowledged errors in its previously published list of the three nearest driving test centres.
The agency confirmed it has now:
- Updated the nearest test centre options for some locations
- Added approximate driving distances between centres
- Provided further detail on how distances are calculated
Learners with tests booked from 9 June 2026 will be contacted if their available options have changed.
DVSA stated: “We’re sorry for any confusion the previous version of the list caused.”
Check which driving test centres tests can be moved to
Changes to booking amendments from 31 March
From 31 March 2026, the number of times a driving test can be changed will be reduced from six to two.
DVSA has clarified that where it changes a test, for example due to bad weather, the booking will be reset, allowing the learner to make two further changes.
Guidance also explains:
- What counts towards the two allowed changes
- What does not count as a change
- How instructors can continue to support the process
Booking access restrictions from May
From 12 May 2026, DVSA confirms that only learner drivers will be legally permitted to book or change a driving test.
However, instructors will still be able to:
- Support pupils through the booking process
- Set their availability so the system can check instructor schedules automatically
This distinction is important for ADIs and PDIs managing their business operations and pupil journeys.
Driving test swaps between learners
DVSA has also confirmed that guidance will be published before 12 May explaining how learners can request test swaps.
The process will:
- Avoid the need to share sensitive personal information
- Set clear expectations around instructor agreement and availability
- Encourage learners to confirm readiness before swapping
