AA Driving School has seen an increase of more than 500% in demand for lessons, following the DVSA announcement that driving lessons could restart in England from 4 July.
More than 10,000 would-be learners had already joined the waiting list for driving lessons during lockdown. The DVSA announcement caused a stampede of learners rushing to book lessons with the driving school, which also manages the British School of Motoring. Many more are expected to book in with test centres before the month is up.
Lesson bookings over the weekend were up 50% compared to a typical weekend pre-lockdown.
In England, theory tests can be booked to take place from 4 July and practical driving tests from Wednesday 22 July.
Sarah Rees, managing director of AA Driving School, said: “We are thrilled to be able to help learner drivers after the lockdown restrictions and know that thousands of instructors across England will be welcoming them back with open, socially-distanced, arms.
“All of our instructors have been issued with detailed guidance about how they can manage the risk of coronavirus and we are confident that they will be prepared to safely and effectively teach from 4 July and beyond.
“We have taken many precautions to ensure pupils will be taught in a safe, effective and comfortable environment during COVID-19. We want pupils to learn with confidence during these uncertain times.”