Finally Confirmed: 3 Major UK Driving Test Changes Coming in Spring 2026
Finally, some clarity.
After years of backlogs, test reselling issues, and constant rule tweaks, the DVSA has confirmed three major changes to how UK driving tests are booked and managed — all coming into force in spring 2026.
If you’re a learner driver (or a driving instructor), these changes will directly affect how you book, move, and prepare for your test. Here’s what’s changing, what’s already changed, and how to adapt.
The 3 Confirmed Changes Coming in Spring 2026
1️⃣ Only Learner Drivers Will Be Allowed to Book Their Own Test
From spring 2026:
👉 Driving instructors will no longer be able to book driving tests on behalf of learners.
- Learners must book their own practical test
- Instructors cannot book, swap, or hold tests for pupils
- This is designed to reduce abuse, reselling, and bulk bookings
✅ Instructors can still link themselves to a learner’s booking using their personal reference number (PRN)
✅ The system will automatically check whether the instructor is available on the chosen test date
What this means:
Learners take full ownership of their test booking, while instructors focus on readiness — not admin.
2️⃣ You’ll Be Limited to Just Two Changes Per Test Booking
Once the new rules begin, learners will be allowed:
- Only two changes to a test booking in total
The DVSA defines a “change” as:
- Changing the date or time
- Changing the test centre
- Swapping a test with another learner who already has a booking
After two changes:
- ❌ You cannot move the test again
- ✅ You must cancel and rebook
Good news:
- You still get a full refund if you cancel with at least 10 full working days’ notice
Why this matters:
Endless moving of tests has been a major contributor to long waiting lists. This rule aims to stabilise availability.
3️⃣ You Can Only Move Your Test to Nearby Centres
Another key restriction:
👉 Learners will only be allowed to move their test to centres near the original booking location.
This prevents:
- Booking a test anywhere in the UK just to “grab a slot”
- Later moving it long-distance to a preferred centre
Outcome:
More local fairness, fewer system loopholes, and better regional availability.
Changes That Have Already Started (Late 2025)
In addition to booking rules, the content of the driving test itself has already evolved.
🚗 More Time on Faster Roads
Since November 2025, learners now spend longer on higher-speed roads during the test — reflecting real-world driving conditions more accurately.
🛑 Fewer Stops
- Number of required stops reduced from 4 to 3
🚨 Emergency Stop Is Now Much Rarer
- Previously: 1 in 3 tests
- Now: 1 in 7 tests
These changes aim to:
- Reduce randomness
- Focus on consistent, real-world driving skills
- Lower unnecessary test anxiety
A Bigger Change Still Under Discussion: Minimum Learning Period
The Department for Transport is also consulting on a Minimum Learning Period.
This would introduce:
- A minimum amount of time between passing the theory test and taking the practical test
⚠️ This is not yet confirmed, but it signals a shift away from rushed test bookings and towards genuine readiness.
What This Means for Learners in 2026
- You must be organised — no last-minute booking chaos
- You’ll need to be more confident before booking
- Fewer changes = better planning
- Preparation matters more than ever
💡 Tip: Keep clear lesson records, progress summaries, and mock test results so you know when you’re actually ready.
What This Means for Driving Instructors
Instructors will:
- Spend less time managing bookings
- Be consulted earlier about readiness
- Rely more on clear communication and documented progress
The role shifts from “booking manager” to readiness coach — which benefits both learners and instructors in the long run.
FAQ (SEO)
When do the new UK driving test booking rules start?
Spring 2026. The DVSA will confirm the exact date closer to launch.
Can instructors still be linked to a test booking?
Yes — learners can add their instructor’s PRN so availability is checked automatically.
How many times can I change my test in 2026?
Twice. After that, you must cancel and rebook.
Has the driving test itself changed?
Yes — more time on fast roads, fewer stops, and emergency stops are now less frequent.
The Bottom Line
Finally, the DVSA is tightening the system — not to make life harder, but to make it fairer, safer, and more realistic.
In 2026, passing your UK driving test will be less about gaming the booking system and more about being genuinely ready to drive.
Plan carefully. Practise properly.
And treat your test booking like what it is: a commitment, not a placeholder 🚗
