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What is causing the backlog in UK driving tests?
The backlog in UK driving tests has been primarily caused by increased demand following the pandemic and changes in booking behavior. The Driver and Vehicle Standards Agency (DVSA) has struggled to keep up with the surge in learners wanting to take their tests, resulting in average waiting times of 20 weeks.
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How are bots and middlemen affecting driving test availability?
Bots and middlemen have exploited the driving test booking system, reselling test slots at inflated prices. Some learners have reported paying up to £250 for a test that typically costs £62. This practice not only makes it harder for genuine learners to secure a test but also exacerbates the backlog.
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What steps is the DVSA taking to resolve the backlog?
The DVSA has announced plans to increase the number of driving tests conducted by at least 10,000 per month. However, Transport Secretary Heidi Alexander has acknowledged that the target of reducing waiting times to seven weeks will not be met until summer 2026, indicating the scale of the challenge ahead.
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Why are waiting times so long for driving tests?
Waiting times for driving tests have become excessively long due to a combination of high demand and the DVSA's inability to meet this demand. The pandemic has led to a backlog of tests that has not yet been cleared, and the current average wait time of 20 weeks reflects this ongoing issue.
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What can learners do to secure a driving test sooner?
Learners can increase their chances of securing a driving test sooner by being flexible with their preferred dates and times, checking for cancellations frequently, and avoiding reliance on bots or middlemen, which can complicate the booking process.
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What are the long-term implications of the driving test backlog?
The long-term implications of the driving test backlog could include a continued shortage of qualified drivers, increased frustration among learner drivers, and potential economic impacts as individuals delay entering the workforce due to the inability to obtain a driving license.