Significant changes to the driving test process in the UK are on the horizon, with new regulations from the Driver and Vehicle Standards Agency (DVSA) scheduled to come into effect in March 2026. These changes specifically target the car driving examinations and will affect learner drivers in England, Scotland, and Wales. The most prominent change is that only the learner driver will have the ability to book and manage their driving tests, effectively removing the option for driving instructors to make these arrangements on behalf of their students.

In addition to this pivotal change, the new regulations will limit the number of changes that can be made to test bookings. Previously, learners could adjust their bookings up to six times. Under the new rules, they will be restricted to only two changes, which includes adjustments to the date and time of the test. This amendment aims to streamline the booking process and reduce administrative burdens, but may also lead to more pressure on learners to ensure their first booking is suitable.

These changes are part of ongoing efforts by the DVSA to improve the efficiency and reliability of the driving test system, aiming to ensure that learners are better prepared for driving independently. As the implementation date approaches, it remains to be seen how these changes will be received by both learners and instructors, as well as the overall impact on the driving test pass rates in the UK.