Learner drivers in the UK are facing driving test wait times of up to six months, with the backlog expected to persist for at least the next two years. A new report by the National Audit Office (NAO) reveals systemic issues within the Driver and Vehicle Standards Agency (DVSA) that will prevent it from meeting its own goals for clearing the backlog by the end of 2025.
Pandemic Impact and Unresolved Backlog
The crisis stems from the COVID-19 pandemic, which resulted in 1.1 million fewer driving tests being conducted. While 400,000 of these have been rebooked, another 360,000 remain outstanding due to operational shortcomings. The DVSA’s booking system is struggling to accommodate demand, despite widespread calls for increased staffing.
This matters because driving tests are a prerequisite for independent driving, which affects people’s ability to work, study, and access opportunities. The backlog creates real-world barriers, especially in areas with limited public transport.
Staffing Shortfalls and Operational Failures
Despite the surge in demand, the DVSA has only added 83 full-time examiners since 2021, falling short of its target of 400 new hires. The NAO’s report directly criticizes the agency for failing to effectively recruit and retain staff, and for misjudging the sustained increase in demand beyond the initial pandemic backlog.
The DVSA’s system “is not working well for learner drivers,” the report concludes. This isn’t merely an inconvenience; it’s a failure of planning that affects thousands of people who rely on driving for essential activities.
The Rise of Third-Party Bookings
As a result of the delays, 31% of learner drivers are now resorting to third-party booking services to secure test slots, with some paying up to £500 – eight times the standard £62 DVSA fee. This creates an unfair system where those who can afford to pay more gain priority, while others are left waiting indefinitely.
Future Outlook and Government Intervention
The NAO estimates that wait times won’t return to a normal seven weeks until November 2027, despite the initial goal of end-of-2025. The DVSA is introducing a new booking system in November 2025 to block third-party bookings and has also announced £5,000 retention payments for examiners to reduce turnover.
The Department for Transport acknowledges the problems, stating they “inherited a frustrating system” and are taking action, including deploying military examiners and restricting test rescheduling starting in spring 2026. The DVSA has also increased test capacity by 74,847 tests between June and November 2025 compared to 2024.
In conclusion: The driving test backlog is a serious issue with systemic roots. While the government is taking steps to address the problem, learners should prepare for continued delays for the foreseeable future. The situation highlights the need for better planning, investment in staffing, and fairer access to essential services.
