DrivingTests News & Analysis
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Market Mood
2.13 Million Driving Tests Conducted by DVSA in 2026
The DVSA reported more than 2.13 million practical driving tests conducted in the 12 months to August 2026, the highest ever recorded. DVSA chief executive Beverley Warmington emphasized ongoing efforts to ensure that learners have fair access to test slots. Despite the increase in available tests, driving instructors noted that learners still face long wait times, averaging about six months. This situation can greatly affect learners' confidence, particularly if they need to retake tests after failing. Such delays in the testing process could impact the overall market for driving schools and related services.
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Driving Test No-Show Rates Reach 64,500 in the UK
In the UK, 64,500 practical driving tests went unattended last year, representing 3.2% of all booked tests, which totaled 1,998,608. The average wait time for a practical driving test across Britain exceeds five months, with specific wait times of 22.7 weeks in England, 22.9 weeks in Scotland, and 17.3 weeks in Wales. New regulations will limit test rescheduling to the three nearest centers aiming to mitigate no-shows and reduce wait times. The previous year's no-show figure increased from 52,000, highlighting a persistent issue in the driving test booking system.
Read More: Driving Test No-Show Rates Reach 64,500 in the UK