Driving test backlog hits historic levels
The driving test backlog has reached historic levels with more more than 600,000 learner drivers in the UK waiting to take their driving tests.
This is the largest backlog of people waiting for the opportunity to get their driving licence ever recorded.
According to analysis of figures from the Driver and Vehicle Standards Agency (DVSA), 603,352 practical driving tests were waiting to be taken at the end of April.
This represents a 16% increase from the 521,190 recorded at the same time last year. Meanwhile, the number of tests conducted in the first four months of this year is 15% down on the same period in 2024, falling from 718,000 to 610,000.
Backlog
The government is tackling the backlog with a number measures, including encouraging DVSA employees qualified to conduct tests but in other roles to return to testing, and accelerating training of driving examiners.
Transport Secretary Heidi Alexander said: “We inherited an enormous backlog of learners ready to ditch their L-Plates but being forced to endure record waiting time for their tests.
“We simply cannot deliver on our Plan for Change if thousands remain held back, with their aspirations on pause.
“I am instructing DVSA to take further action immediately to reduce waiting times which will see thousands of additional tests made available every month. We’re acting fast to get Britain’s drivers moving.”
