Driving tests suspended to help tackle coronavirus

The Driver and Vehicle Standards Agency (DVSA) has suspended driving tests in England, Scotland and Wales for up to three-months from Saturday (March 21).

The decision has been made to help prevent the spread of coronavirus as tests lead to extended contact between candidates and examiners in vehicles. Motorcycle tests are also being suspended. There are separate arrangements in Northern Ireland.

However, DVSA has put in place plans to provide tests for critical workers.

You can still get an emergency test during the suspension period if your work is critical to the COVID-19 response, or you work in a critical sector.

These include: health and social care; education and childcare; key public services; local and national government; food and other necessary goods; public safety and national security; transport; and utilities, communication and financial services.

Transport secretary Grant Shapps said: “We are having to take big decisions to protect the public in our national battle against COVID-19.

“Regrettably, we have had to suspend driver testing for up to three months to help tackle the spread of the virus.

“It is vital that those who need a test can get one so DVSA is offering tests to those who have a critical need, such as the NHS and drivers delivering goods across the UK. Those who have tests cancelled will have priority when testing resumes.”

The tests being suspended include: car driving tests; motorcycle tests; lorry, coach and bus driving tests; approved driving instructor (ADI) tests and checks.

DVSA will contact everyone with a test booked during this time to let them know their test has been cancelled and that it will automatically re-book for them.

The decision will be kept under review. The latest information about driving tests and COVID-19 is on GOV.UK.