Driving test changes in 2026
A full breakdown of the changes to UK driving tests in 2026
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Changes have been announced by the Driver and Vehicle Standards Agency (DVSA) to driving test bookings and the theory test, affecting new drivers in the UK.
2026 driving test changes:
Only learners can book their test
Limits on moving or changing tests
Theory test changes
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Only learners can book their test
From 12 May 2026, only learner drivers can book and manage their own driving test as the DVSA cracks down on third-party services exploiting new drivers by selling slots for profit.
Third parties will break the DVSA's terms and conditions if they change, swap or cancel a driving test for someone else. Driving instructors can still advise their students, but can't book it for them.
The DVSA has urged motorists to pay only the official fee of £62 on weekdays and £75 on evenings, weekends and bank holidays.
Limits on moving or changing tests
To prevent people from 'placeholder booking' (booking any random slot just to secure a space), the following limits apply:
Two-change limit: Since 31 March 2026, you can only change your test date, time or location twice. If you need to change it a third time, you must cancel the booking and start over.
The "three nearest centres" rule: Starting 9 June 2026, if you want to move your test location, you will only be allowed to move it to one of the three test centres nearest to your original booking. This prevents learners from booking in remote areas with shorter wait times just to swap them later for local slots.
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Theory test updates
The theory test has been updated at the start of 2026 to include a stronger focus on emergency first aid:
CPR and AEDs: New questions have been added on Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation (CPR) and how to use Automated External Defibrillators (AEDs) at the scene of an accident.