Learner drivers are being caught out by driving test backlogs (Image: Getty)
Learner drivers could be paying hundreds more to pass their test as backlogs
Experts warn students have now been placed under “significant pressure” with many battling “higher costs” to secure their
It is understood average waiting times at most test centres is anywhere from four to six months.
It means learners have to pay for more lessons to keep their skills up to scratch to ensure they will pass when they take their test.
Seb Goldin, CEO of stressed the surge in interest in driving tests has heightened the issue.
The DVSA is taking action to reduce waiting lists (Image: Getty)
He said: “Demand for driving tests has surged, with nearly 2 million tests expected this year in comparison to 1.6 million in 2019. More people than ever want to learn to drive, whether that’s for a job or personal independence, adding pressure to an already strained system.
“The backlog has placed significant pressure on students, who often face higher costs to stay test-ready while waiting.”
Previous research from car insurance experts at suggested learner drivers were paying around £249 more to stay test-ready.
This is calculated on the average cost of eight more lessons to stay on top of their skills while waiting for an exam to become available.
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The DVSA said they delivered around 145,000 additional car tests last year but faced a 20% higher demand for exams.
The DVSA has outlined plans to with new rules in 2025.
The group has pledged to with new guidelines to improve how motorists book tests.
A new consultation will also look at whether new proposals should increase the amount of time people have to wait to book another test after failing.
However, the average pass rate is just 48.4% meaning a lot of tests were being lost to individuals failing.
If just 5% more road users passed the exam around 100,000 won’t need to take a test, which would free up more room for test availability.
stressed that some of the new initiatives will help to “reduce barriers” and ensure “more people” have access to lessons.
Seb added: “The DVSA’s seven-point plan is a strong step towards tackling the lengthy wait times students face, which currently reach up to six months in some areas.
“Recruiting 450 additional driving examiners and cracking down on the resale of test slots are critical measures to restore confidence in the system and ensure fair access for all.”