DVSA issues stark warning to learner drivers over websites selling driving tests

With the backlog of learner drivers set to be a priority for the new Labour government, the DVSA has stated that drivers should be vigilant where they purchase their test from.

This week, the Driver and Vehicle Standards Agency (DVSA) is encouraging learner drivers to only use the official GOV.UK website to book and manage their driving test.

The DVSA has published new guidance for learner drivers to help them stay safe online when booking a test – and avoid being scammed.

Due to the delays in being able to book a driving test in the past few years, desperate learner drivers are turning to unofficial websites and apps to get an appointment under the guise of ‘cancellation appointments’

In a statement from the DVSA, they stated that they do not run, approve or endorse any cancellation finder apps or services.

The Government’s official website is the only place learners can book a test.

RAC head of policy Simon Williams said: "It’s wrong that driving test slots are now as hard to get as Glastonbury tickets due to brokers using software to block-book tests faster than a human possibly could. 

"Definitive action needs to be taken to prevent ‘bots’ booking tests and then selling them on to desperate learners for crazy amounts of money. This leads to genuine slots being wasted and learners, who are ready to take their tests, missing out and having to wait months for a chance to become a qualified driver. It’s no wonder some learners end up booking test slots before they’re ready.

"It’s also very wrong that real people who are genuinely trying to book their tests are being treated as if they are bots.

"The best course of action before the DVSA finds a solution to this hard-to-fathom problem is only to book via the official Government website and not pay well over the odds by using a so-called broker’s site."

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Last week, the new Transport Secretary Louise Haigh stated that the rise in the number of ‘dodgy sites’ reselling driving tests was ‘unacceptable’.

In response, she said that the Labour party will make tackling the driving test backlog a ‘key priority’ going forward.

Loveday Ryder, DVSA Chief Executive, said: “GOV.UK is the only official way to book your practical driving test. Using GOV.UK will keep your data safe, help you stay informed and save money.

“You should always keep your driving licence number secure. It could be invaluable to those looking to steal your identity.

“DVSA does not run, approve or endorse any cancellation finder apps or services and we encourage learners only to book their driving test when their instructor agrees they are ready.”

The driving instructors’ National Associations Strategic Partnership (NASP) continued: “NASP wholeheartedly supports any campaigns and guidance which works to dissuade learners from using third party booking apps.

“Taking shortcuts to queue jump and book an earlier test could come back to bite you, by losing your money, your test slot and even the potential loss or misuse of your personal data.

“Don’t take the risk, use the proper booking channels, listen to the advice about making sure you’re ready for test and becoming a licensed driver, and get and take your test the correct way.”