Time lag for driving test appointments at 20 weeks
Learner drivers are waiting an average of 20 weeks for driving test appointments, according to the latest figures from the DVSA.
This is a marginal improvement from the 20.2 weeks reported in July.
Analysis by AA Driving School of individual test centre data found 146 of 317 centres (46%) recorded a 24-week appointment availability measure in August, down from 153 centres in July.
The median time between booking and taking a test across Great Britain remained unchanged at 11.1 weeks, while 29.8% of tests taken in August took place more than 21 weeks after they were booked.
DVSA also said more than 2.13 million practical driving tests were carried out in the 12 months to August 2026 – the highest rolling 12-month figure on record.
Emma Bush, managing director of AA Driving School, said: “There are encouraging signs that the driving test backlog is beginning to ease, and it is particularly welcome that record numbers of tests are being delivered.
“However, for pupils facing long waits in their area, progress will still feel slow and uneven. Being able to drive can open up employment, education and other opportunities, particularly where public transport options are limited, so lengthy waits can have an impact well beyond simply getting a driving licence.
“We welcome the work being done to improve access to tests and increase capacity, and learners now need to see sustained improvements wherever they live.”
