They’ll also only be allowed to make two changes to their driving test booking, including moving or swapping dates, and changing the location. Any more, and the test must be cancelled and rebooked.
Those that do need to rebook their test will be offered a limited number of test centres, and only ones close to the original booking.
Earlier this year, Auto Express reported driving test slots were being resold for as much as £200, compared with the £62 or £75 the DVSA actually charges learners.
“It’s been adding insult to injury, to be honest, because people are having to wait a long time for the test,” the Transport Secretary told the committee. “Then some people are also, if they’re availing themselves of these bots, having to fork out a huge amount of money.
“It feels totally wrong on both levels. That’s why we’re taking the action we’ve announced today.”
This news comes just after Loveday Ryder, chief executive of the DVSA, announced she is leaving the agency. The Transport Secretary said she will be looking to Ryder’s successor to “really get a grip on the issue of driving test wait times” and that it will be a top priority for the organisation.
