Driving teacher’s prime suggestions to assist clear up take a look at ready time disaster

The DVSA have shared reports of increasing practical driving test times, with one instructor claiming things are getting worse and the price of the test should be raised

A driving instructor said there are simple steps which could reduce the waiting time for practical tests.

According to the DVSA, as of January 2025, driving test waiting times in the UK are typically 4 to 6 months. However, waiting times vary by location and can be longer in some areas. Several issues, such as the covid lockdowns and examiner strikes have seen the typical waiting time pushed back several times, leaving many learners waiting months to ditch their L plates.

In response, one instructor from Bradford revealed some tips for slashing the wait time in half. These included charging more and making failed students wait longer to retake.

Ayub Khan said tests should go up “three times” in price, to put people off taking them before they’re ready. He has noticed how difficult it is to book on behalf of his students.

Reports say a black market has started, with sellers offering tests over social media and offering appointments by booking them with other learner drivers’ details.

Mr Khan worries standards of driving might lower as students rush to learn quickly and pass their test.

He said: “Because of the driving test shortage, people from Bradford are going further afield so they’re causing backlogs in other cities. The Leeds ones, they’re moving over to Knaresborough.”

Adding to this, driving lessons are now more expensive than ever, now being sold at minimum £30 an hour. “The driving test needs to be three times the price it is now. It’s been £62 for 10 years. How much was a loaf of bread then?

“People would rather go and take a chance rather than learn to drive safely. They ring me in the evening saying ‘My instructor’s gone abroad’ or ‘the car’s broke down, will you take me tomorrow?’”

Mr Khan said patience is often lost, and people book tests before they’re ready just do they can get it secured. Another solution could be a so-called points based system.

Here, learners would be forced to complete a mock test to ensure they’re ready. If they failed, they could not be allowed to book their test.

As for failures, he believes there should be at least a two-month cooldown and reflection before they are allowed to rebook their test.

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