Driving tests postponed under new lockdown rules

6th Jan 2021

The Driver and Vehicle Standards Agency (DVSA) has confirmed that all driving and riding tests will be suspended until lockdown restrictions are lifted.

All driving and riding lessons from 5 January are affected, including Compulsory Basic Training (CBT) and Approved Driving Instructor (ADI) part two and part three tests.

Candidates will receive an email confirming their postponed test and a second email providing a rescheduled appointment.

Instructors who have booked tests on behalf of their pupils will have to contact them separately.

Theory tests have also been suspended and test certificates will not be extended. The DVSA said: “This is because your road safety knowledge and hazard perception skills need to be up to date when you restart driving lessons and take your driving test.”

The latest lockdown announced by the Prime Minister on Monday (4 January) prevents learner drivers from taking lessons with someone in their support bubble, too.

Looking for tips on how to support the learner in your life when restrictions are lifted? Check out our comprehensive guide on how to teach someone to drive.

We also provide specialist, short term learner driver insurance from as little as 2 hours up to 5 months of cover. It is fully comprehensive and ensures that there is no impact on the No Claims Discount of the car owner’s annual insurance policy.

‘Reasonable excuses’ for leaving the home include exercise, medical reasons and work, where it’s unreasonable for you to do your job from home. Read our frequently asked questions for more detailed COVID-19 information for drivers

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Provisional licence holders will have to delay their lessons until restrictions are eased in their region. England’s rules will be reviewed on 15 February, while Scotland will assess its temporary lockdown later this month.

After a similar ban last year, driving tests and lessons returned with a host of added hygiene measures.

The DVSA closed some test centres where social distancing wasn’t possible, and candidates were asked not to arrive more than five minutes before tests began.

When current restrictions are eventually lifted, learner drivers may have to follow similar rules.

In other coronavirus related news, MOT test centres are still classed as essential businesses and drivers must arrange a test in time as usual.

If you were given a six-month extension last year you should book a test before your new expiry date.

Our RAC Approved Garages are open for bookings and follow a COVID-19 Code of Conduct.

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