12/06/2026
Is this a step in the right direction?
DVSA Update – Action Against Driving Test Booking Misuse
Key points for Driving Instructors
* Since 12 May 2026, only the learner driver is permitted to book, change, swap or cancel their car driving test.
* DVSA is actively enforcing the new rules and taking action against misuse of the booking system.
* 450 driving tests have already been cancelled where evidence showed they were booked using payment cards linked to multiple different learners, indicating the bookings were not made by the test candidates themselves.
* DVSA has confirmed it will continue monitoring and cancelling tests that breach legislation or booking terms and conditions.
* 4,034 online booking suspensions have been issued.
* Suspended licence holders cannot book or manage tests online.
* They must contact the DVSA customer service centre by telephone.
* Suspensions now remain in place for 12 months.
* DVSA has worked with Apple and Google to remove 17 unofficial apps that breached the booking service terms and conditions.
Advice to Pass on to Pupils
Remind learners to:
* Only use GOV.UK to book or manage driving tests.
* Avoid unofficial test-booking apps and websites.
* Never book tests through individuals advertising on social media.
Consequences for Learners
If learners use unofficial services:
* Their online booking access may be suspended.
* Their driving test may be cancelled.
* They could lose significant sums of money with no means of recovery.
* Their personal information may be exposed to scammers and misused.
Instructor Takeaway
As driving instructors, it is important for us to ensure pupils understand that all test bookings and changes must be managed directly by the learner through the official GOV.UK service. DVSA enforcement activity is increasing, and non-compliant bookings are being identified and cancelled.