Learner drivers will soon benefit from 10,000 additional driving tests monthly as the Transport Secretary announces new measures to address record-breaking waiting times.

Currently, 57% of UK test centres have waiting lists exceeding six months, with average waiting times of 20 weeks - up from 7-9 weeks in 2019. This backlog affects job opportunities, as approximately one in six UK jobs requires a driving licence.

Key Government Actions:

• Doubling capacity for training new driving examiners
• Reintroducing overtime pay for existing examiners
• Recruiting 450 new examiners
• Extending booking windows
• Increasing cancellation notice period from 3 to 10 working days
• Implementing stricter rules for no-shows and dangerous behavior

The DVSA is also addressing fraudulent practices, including:

• Banning test slot resales
• Closing 800 business accounts involved in abuse
• Preventing instructors from booking tests for non-students

Tips for Learner Drivers:

1. Book early and be flexible with dates and locations
2. Use legitimate cancellation checker tools
3. Maintain regular practice between booking and test
4. Only book when fully prepared
5. Consider alternative test centers
6. Monitor theory test certificate validity (2-year limit)
7. Use only official DVSA booking channels

The government aims to reduce average wait times to seven weeks by the end of 2025. This initiative is crucial as the percentage of young drivers (17-20) has dropped from 35% in 2019 to 29% in 2023.

According to Emma Bush, managing director of AA Driving School: "There's an urgent need for effective action to bring waiting times down to an acceptable level... Many people, particularly young people, need to pass their driving test for their job or to access education."

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