More than 668,000 people waiting for a driving test amid backlog

The number of learner drivers with a future test booking has reached a new high, as more slots are being made available to tackle the backlog.

Driver and Vehicle Standards Agency (DVSA) figures show 668,128 people had a practical driving test booked in Britain as of the end of September.

That is up 15% from 579,138 a year earlier.

The total is an indication of the backlog of driving tests, which the DVSA has attributed to an increase in demand and some people booking tests much earlier than before.

Some 168,644 tests were conducted last month, an increase of 14% from 148,144 in September 2024.

Roads minister Simon Lightwood described the rise as “fantastic”.

Transport Secretary Heidi Alexander said in April her department aimed to reduce the average waiting time for driving tests to seven weeks by summer 2026.

The figure was 21.8 weeks at the end of June.

Tests can be booked up to 24 weeks in advance, with new slots released on a rolling basis.

The Government recently consulted on amending the driving test booking system, in an attempt to stop bots mass-booking new slots so they can be resold on the black market for inflated prices.

Officials have urged learners not to book a test until they are confident they will pass.

Last month’s pass rate was 49.9%, which was down from 50.7% in August and represented a six-month low.

Mr Lightwood said: “We promised more tests, and we’ve delivered.

“It’s fantastic that the DVSA has carried out over 20,000 more tests in September this year.

“We inherited a broken system, with learners ready to ditch their L plates but unable to get a test.

“That’s why we instructed the DVSA to take further measures this year, and we’re now seeing real improvement.

“We’re incentivising driving examiners to carry out more tests, nearly doubling the number of trainers available to teach new examiners, unlocking more tests.

“There’s still more to be done - and we will make sure the DVSA continues to do all they can to reduce waiting times, breaking down the barriers of opportunity.”

Steve Gooding, director of motoring research charity the RAC Foundation, said: “At last we’re seeing light at the end of the driving test delay tunnel.

“These figures might not be much comfort for those already in the system, but things might be about to become better for those looking to apply for tests.

“Let’s hope this marks the start of genuine turnaround for a qualification that for many is among the most important they will need.”