Why The Long Wait For Driving Tests & Possible Solutions

[@Born2007]

The DVSA need to stop the resellers. The idea that what is essentially a government appointment can be bought and sold for profit is disgusting.

[@pachicore]

I think think they're trying. When i was booking a test i got blocked for checking too much and a bit of googling told me they do that to stop resellers

[@user-mv5zt8qd9l]

​@@pachicore I'm not an expert on the system, but I think a more effective way (albeit slightly drastic) would be to stop instructors from being able to book on behalf of learners. That's the system the resellers are using to hoard appointments to sell on.

[@adinigel]

The resellers will soon disappear if everyone refused to pay more for a test than the government charges.

[@chnet968]

Just ask anyone booking tests to enter their information on their provisional driving license. If that doesn't match the provisional driving license turn up on the test day, the test is considered void. I wonder why they don't do that. Just like booking the Life in the UK test, you can't change the first name and date of birth after booking the test for exactly the same reason.

[@alexjames4064]

The DVSA aren’t even enforcing their own rules. It’s supposed to be only allowed to book a test for yourself or your instructor doing so on your behalf. The fact they don’t enforce their own rules tells you all you need to know about how much they care about learners.

[@obinnaijoma6770]

I passed my driving practical test today on my first time with 3 minor faults. You're a brilliant instructor. You don't realise how you have helped thousands of people through your channel. I'm sticking to this channel because I have learned a lot here and will keep learning. Thank you, Richard. 🥂

[@araylaurence6220]

test resellers should be outlawed, geniunely vile practice of forced upselling

[@ramanchaudhary2518]

Price gouging will remain so long as the demand outweighs the supply, there aren’t enough tests being conducted to satisfy the need or not enough test are freed at the right time for learners to stick to the official system

[@pwners4u]

@@ramanchaudhary2518if the resellers weren’t buying them learners would be… as the ones who can’t resell get a refund and the test is either not booked at all or booked by someone days in advance who may fail due to poor prep time

[@lancethrust9488]

NO WAY I WANT TO START A NEW BUSINESS

[@amelie4135]

I just wanted to say, I passed my test this morning and honestly wouldn’t have without your videos, thank you so much!

[@Positivity337]

congrats

[@Shlock7]

I was failed on my driving test a couple weeks ago after waiting months for it. Wasn't even my fault either, someone ahead had performed a dodgy parking maneuver and my examiner had apparently touched the brakes. Didn't notice him doing that in the moment, cause I was doing the same exact thing. But I guess he was just very jumpy. Anyway, because of that careless driver and my examiner being too quick on the brake, I'm forced to pay sixty quid to book a new test and it's not for another six months. I just can't help but feel resentful toward the examiner for not letting me demonstrate I was in control of the car in that moment... ugh. Thank you for your videos dude. You have always been a massive help, and I hope to come back to your channel when I pass so I can share the good news

[@bf9258]

Same thing happened to me unfortunately though I couldn't get a second test so now I have to retake my theory test and find a new test date after passing that again and find a new instructor.

[@FatBiscuitYT]

My instructor said it's hit or miss with some examiners as some will actually question you about it. Which gives you the opportunity to say yes I pressed the brakes as I noticed the hazard, in which case they won't fault you for it. Pretty shocking that it's up to the examiners discretion to do that or not.

[@dorothrrystyles9403]

My friend at work had something similar happen on one of her tests. She had pulled up to a blind junction and stopped before the line but as she edged forward to see further, the examiner mistook her movement as her trying to pull out infront of an oncoming car and she hit the brakes just as my friend was coming to a stop again. She got failed for that, but I’ve heard that that specific examiner is also the meanest one at the test centre

[@michaelgreatorex2340]

The civil service is well versed in expanding and then “wasting” its work force. For Brexit it even made an entire new department (DExEU), which now doesn’t exist! They could definitely DEFINITELY employ 25% more examiners for a year or too and then waste them off. There’s no excuse not to

[@trevor5485]

I failed my practical test today, because I didn’t signal before moving off even though there was no one around, I also went 3mph above the speed limit, now I have to wait another 6 months? I’m just baffled

[@aperson5994]

Richard ! I’ve been watching your videos for about a year and passed today! Thank you so much you don’t know how many learner drivers like me you have helped love your vids ❤❤

[@ConquerDriving]

That's fantastic news! Thank you for watching and congratulations on passing!

[@strokedout6298]

It's not "panic buying". Are you telling me the DVSA expects learners to become test ready... then wait 6 whole months for a test? Absurd, it simply drains the learner's wallet since they would have to keep up with lessons, or they become worse because they don't want to keep paying for lessons.

[@Ruth695]

I agree

[@deejaydj6013]

@@strokedout6298 true they’re better off doing their theory , booking a test then doing lessons inbetween

[@victoriab8186]

I would agree that this phrasing puts unfair connotations on the learner, because it suggests that individuals are being unreasonable; but in context he has also explained that individuals are making understandable choices. I think it’s actually a feature of ‘panic buying’ as a concept. When we saw ‘panic buying’ in the pandemic, this was in the main a slight increase in demand from people trying to stock up so they didn’t have to shop as often, leading to shelves looking more empty than usual, leading to people buying more to stock up just in case stock had run out at the time when they actually needed more, and this became a cycle. Such is termed ‘panic buying’. Buying because stock is low in fear of later shortages, thus causing said later shortages. The word ‘panic’ is far too strong a word, but the phrase is what we’ve got. And this does describe the actions of booking a test many months in advance, even if it’s not a commodity that learners are buying multiple of. Due to seeing shortages now, consumers fear it will be hard to access later, so they buy in advance of their future need, thus exacerbating shortages. As in the case of panic buying of other goods, evident and publicised shortages also increase the potential profits of re-sellers, who are incentivised to buy up more tests on the basis that the people will buy. This is not the fault of any individual consumer - it is not the case with any panic buying. Excepting in very badly stocked systems, one individual cannot cause the issue. Panic buying is and always has been an issue of a system structured for less demand than exists at a period of increased demand, and which cannot effectively control the spiral of defensive future-proofing purchasing which we call ‘panic-buying’.

[@MixtapeMaestro]

I've found the pressure on the actual test day is way too much when I know its a 6 month wait if I fail 😅

[@lesleyabbott4231]

​@@MixtapeMaestroI totally agree

[@robinmanners8094]

My son had the same issue trying to book an instructor and test so he borrowed his sisters small car and I taught him after booking a test on the Isle of Wight. He passed first time after 5 days of intensive driving. However, we could never had done it without the invaluable information on your KZbin channel. Watching you carry out mock tests was the key to understanding the level required. I'm not a driving instructor but had the benefit of being an IAM advanced motorist with LGV and emergency service experience, which helped.

[@Larry]

I tried to get a test back in February 2023 on the DVSA's website. It was fully booked everywhere in my area until at least January 2024! The whole process is incredibly unnecessarily stressful and depressing for new drivers now. But, booking as soon as the driver passes the theory test also falls down to that two year time limit before it expires too, so they have no idea if they'll be able to get a test in that allotted time, not to mention the DVSA also refused to extend anyone's theory test time limit if they had passed just before lockdown. And test resellers... Call them by their true name, Scalpers!

[@andrewclifton429]

Do long waiting lists have the effect of reducing pass rates - making the situation worse? I recently asked Richard's advice about problems with anxiety during a mock test and he said, "You need to find a way not to care about passing your test." This is very good advice - but it's difficult to follow when you know that, if you fail, you have to wait six months or more until another test becomes available. I haven't looked at the stats but I suspect that longer waiting lists correlate with lower pass rates, for this reason.

[@fishpie57]

It's an interesting question. I think on an individual level, it must have an impact. If you knew you could fail and rebook for a month's time, you might be more relaxed during the test. Whether that would make your driving better or worse depends on the individual! As the pass rate is still on the high side of normal, I wonder if on average the pressure is helping learners stay focused? It will depend on the individual though, and I agree for some the added pressure makes a fail more likely.

[@andrewclifton429]

@@fishpie57 I told a friend about this after posting my comment. She mentioned that on her first test, she was well aware she'd made a serious fault in the first couple of minutes. After that, knowing she'd already failed, she relaxed and treated it as like a normal driving lesson. At the end, the examiner told her, that early mistake was her only fault! In her second test, she was anxious as she needed a pass to secure a job offer. She decided to assume that, like before, she'd failed in the first two minutes. So she passed! I think I'm going to try this technique.

[@fishpie57]

@@andrewclifton429 I think that's a good approach! I think it's also why mock tests are also so useful - it's hard to get into the mindset of "Whoops, I think I just failed, but I need to forget about that now and keep concentrating." Just like real-world driving, you can't be worrying about whether a mistake you made 5 mins ago was caught on camera (whether speeding, red lights, bus lanes...). You need to stay focused on the here and now to avoid making another mistake!

[@andrewclifton429]

@@fishpie57 Thanks. Another nice piece of advice I got was this: drive for yourself, and other road-users, not for your examiner. In any circumstances, you always want to drive safely and competently, to a good standard - in the interests of yourself and others. Drive that way. Treat the examiner as nothing more than a satnav, telling you which way to go.

[@yuks4life]

you are such good teacher, advisor, analyzer, which DVLA should recognized

[@makapaka1976]

I passed my driving test today and your videos definitely helped, keep up the good work.

[@ConquerDriving]

That's fantastic to hear. Thank you for watching and congratulations on passing!

[@joshuagall7252]

The gov needs to do more to make sure that the system is fair, in my opinion a waiting list system would be very workable. A lot of people don't realise how important a freedom the ability to drive really is. I recently failed my first test and I devastated, not because I was ashamed or embarrassed or anything like that, but because I knew it would most likely be several more months of my life where my ability to travel is extremely restricted

[@AdamMusic944]

Not to mention the amount of money you’ll lose, public transport in this country is a joke and exceedingly expensive. The DVSA also fail people for very, very minor reasons these days, together with the other factors there’s no surprise it’s a 6 month wait. In my case I have been looking for about 2 months and I haven’t got past the “no tests in your area”, absolutely shocking

[@xeridon539]

@@AdamMusic944I'd say for young people driving is more expensive than public transport when you consider how expensive insurance is, c.£4k-£5k for an 18 year old for example. The free dom is much more an issue and I sympathise heavily.

[@ConquerDriving]

You may be able to find a cancellation if you look regularly.

[@abdulwakil2613]

@@AdamMusic944Public transport isn’t really a joke in this country. Especially in major cities like london we have one of the best public transport services in the world… Owning a car is always more expensive than public transport, especially for young drivers as the other person mentioned. Maintenance costs, fuel, insurance, road tax etc.

[@johnk8301]

They actually do this with instructor tests you book a test ‘on hold’ and as soon as there’s one released it automatically gets booked for you. I wouldn’t say it’s much quicker though to be honest as it still took me about a year and a half from start to finish of becoming an instructor.

[@ewansmith4610]

I watched your vids this year an they massively helped. Passed my test back in April 👌🏼

[@Owen-s6m]

You probably hear this a lot but I have my test upcoming soon. So I just wanted to say been watching a lot of your videos for some reassurance and advice and have found it rather helpful. so I'd like to say thank you as it has really helped in lowering my anxiety for the test!

[@ConquerDriving]

Good luck!

[@Owen-s6m]

Update. Had my test earlier today. Passed it!!! So again thanks for the videos they were super helpful :)

[@وائلالعلواني-ن5ط]

I passed my practical test in first time without taking any lessons from driving instructor, you videos are absolutely valuable

[@mbateson1780]

A way to address the "swapping names on booked driving tests": DVSA having a system on their website where you can list your test that you're selling, and can only receive what you paid for it. It requires you to put in your test booking reference, driver number etc like some sites do to stop people scalping/touting gig tickets.

[@bordersw1239]

This has a knock on effect for people getting jobs or even university places,really needs sorting!

[@kim007250]

Yep , the mantra is going for growth…..it’s not gonna happen in fast forward modern Britain.

[@3mileisland516]

Driving Instructors in Australia teach pupils and conduct tests as well. Somehow it works there.

[@user-fl7zv3ew6s]

I remember I had a test this year June 2024 and failed with 1 serious and 3 minors. The serious due to being under taken whilst being on a dual carriageway. Last 5 mins of the test. My theory test was about to run out in a month. So I had to redo my theory test unless I managed to get a test within the first 2 weeks of July. I was working full-time until the start of August. I managed to do the theory test but I started University again in September. So I only had a 3 week window to book a test. I managed to book a test roughly about an hour away. It was the 4th closest one but for Jan 2025. Trying to get a test is harder than the actual test and is causing more headaches than preperation for the driving test. I am now going to have to spend more money to book out an instructors car and get ready for the test again. My instructor is a good guy and has provided support on test swaps between other students etc but frankly the whole backlog situation is awful. I have spent a significant portion of my money on maintaining my "test ready" driving ability rather than learning to drive. The system is bad.

[@panther9450]

Wohoo 🎉🎉🎉 was getting worried for a second 😂😂 can't survive without you it's what gets me through Monday 😂

[@ConquerDriving]

It's great to hear you look forward to the content. I work 6 weeks ahead and had one scheduled for 18:00 but decided as this topic is almost like news that I should move today's video back and bring this one forwards to today. I was a bit delayed doing that as I hadn't quite finished it.

[@panther9450]

@@ConquerDriving My pleasure Richard 😊 would like to come and visit Colchester next year, should have saved enough for car insurance by then 😎

[@hedgehoghogtel1694]

I failed my test last week. April was the next available, but that was only because there was a cancellation. Ridiculous!

[@Abionytrl]

Im almost 17 [next year] im hoping my dad will teach and help me with lessons and i have been watcing ur vids for a year so that also i am getting knowlega knowledge its just i need to physically do it in practice, thanks for your videos Richard keep it going!

[@MankiranKamaal]

Why don’t you do it with Richard ?

[@Stone2200]

I am an Instructor and I agree with you about shutting down the booking system. It won't totally stop resellers but it will help to stop companies holding tests.

[@matthewwhite5462]

One thing not mentioned here is location. London, large cities and the south is much harder to find a test than the rest of the UK. With this, we need instructors in high population areas. Another thing that amplifies this problem, is the decrease in manual cars, from anecdotal evidence, i know plenty who learn manual but all family members drive automatics so they do not have a car to test in. This limits drivers to local test centres than being able to be driven further by family.

[@kwertygworl]

Passed first time today with 5 minors, honestly don’t think I could’ve done it without your videos, you’re the best, am really anxious about going out on my own now, so will still be watching for a advice 😂 thank you for your videos ❤❤

[@UKBNR]

They should add a 10% cancellation fee, that would help deter resellers.

[@robjacques6269]

As an ADI, I am not annoyed by the OBS suggestion at all. In fact, I'd welcome it as I've been trying more and more not to book tests for pupils anymore due to the administrative burden that comes with it. I personally think the best thing the DVSA can do is charge for cancellations within 4 weeks, preventing people from holding them until the last minute and also increase change the wait to a minimum of 4 weeks after facing a test to be able to book another one.

[@keshavprasad6485]

The DVSA needs to stop the resellers and get a grip on the situation. It needs to employ increasing technology to monitor test results, involve experienced driving instructors (like may be more than 10 years of instructor experience with some additional certifications etc). I can't believe the situation is this bad!

[@Willakimbo_]

With these inflated wait times for practical tests I believe the theory test result should last longer than 2 years. Currently I’m feeling pressure from this time limit, frustration from the lack of tests and the appalling system they use, as well as the expected stress of producing on the test. Great vid!

[@54356776]

No. 2 years is a long time. People need to plan better if they still haven't done a test in 2 years.

[@Willakimbo_]

@ 2 years is a long time if you can get a test in a month or 2, but no it takes around a 1/4 of the allocated time. There’s absolutely no issue extending to 3/4 years.

[@54356776]

@@Willakimbo_ There's absolutely an issue. When you're ready for the test you do your theory and then book a test. 2 years is plenty of time for anyone who is serious about getting a license.

[@Willakimbo_]

@ Anyone is welcome to take their theory test before doing any practical lessons and if so will need time to take enough lessons to be test ready.

[@54356776]

@@Willakimbo_ People just need to plan better. Like I've already stated mate. 2 years is plenty of time. People should study before taking lessons but a theory before any driving lessons is obviously going to put pressure on to pass. I got asked by multiple instructors if I'd done my theory yet and said no each time. I put my theory off until it was the only thing left to do before my test as it makes no difference until you're ready to book a test.

[@williamcottam3363]

Did you watch the Transport Committee meetings in Parliament about this issue? Was very insightful! Another solution I'd suggest would be to remove the ability to change the location of your test. This would reduce third party resellers!

[@ConquerDriving]

I didn't watch that.

[@andrewpotato6002]

If you're in London, removing the ability to change tests would be a significant disadvantage. There around around 40 test centres within a 1 hour drive. On the other hand, a driving instructor booking tests both in Scotland and the Midlands and London for their so called pupils should be algorithmically flagged.

[@williamcottam3363]

@andrewpotato6002 why would it be a disadvantage for those in London?

[@andrewpotato6002]

@@williamcottam3363 in rural areas, there is often only one choice of test centre. In London, there are many. Some you can walk between. This restriction would be particularly noticed in London and other major cities

[@williamcottam3363]

@andrewpotato6002 I’m very aware of the proximity of test centres in London. I used to live in east London and was looking for tests at Goodmayes, Wanstead, Erith, Belvedere, Hornchurch, etc. I ended up getting a test at Goodmayes. I had no need to change the location of my test. I’m struggling to see why someone would *need* to unless they’re moving house or something, in which case some better planning would make sure someone doesn’t book the test at a centre too far from their new home.

[@pantopia3518]

I think I’ve solved it. We ban changing the name on the test EXCEPT for driving instructors (who have a teaching license so we know who they are). Driving instructors can use that function to make things more efficient because they can give tests to students as soon as they’re ready and this doesn’t incentivise the student to look for a test somewhere else. A driving instructor can buy a load of tests, the week before assign them to a student or give them back for a refund. They would have to give enough notice for a refund. Scalpers wouldn’t be able to buy all the tests and hold them hostage for a profit so there wouldn’t be unreasonable demand. It’s also the case that there aren’t enough examiners it seems, to solve that you could contract examiners from other countries, they would have much quicker training than anyone else except perhaps driving instructors.

[@fenegroni]

When booking a test you can book it and then keep an eye out for cancellations and new spots opening up. Unfortunately this requires you to be able to travel to those other test centres. Did that recently and each test could be booked within 4 to 8 weeks of each other, sometimes even less.

[@alisont308]

They definitely need to stop the re sellers, they are profiting and it isn’t fair. I started learning in September 22 and passed theory November 22 then booked my test for May 23 and thankfully passed first time. I did tell my instructor that if he felt I wasn’t test ready I’d move it on but he felt I was ready as long as I sorted my test nerves which I did.

[@mariad2468]

You explain things so well. I wish you could teach my children to drive

[@Turbostork]

Passed my test a few days ago but i was worried about the long waiting times if I did fail. Hope things improve soon! Your videos have been a huge help between lessons and definitely helped me achieve my pass 😊 Thanks

[@meralcaybakan2010]

I have dedicated almost 2 years into my driving lessons and failed 4 tests. Before my theory runs out I need to book my test again before February 2025. It's absolutely draining! Despite all the hard work and efforts I've put in, the examiner somehow always finds a fault to fail you. Bottom line, its a money making scam! And they are brutel with getting away with it. My driving instructor, family and friends have all said I'm an advanced and good driver but not according to the examiner. Each Fail just destroyed my confidence and I'm still trying to book my test 😢 the corruption of DVSA exams needs huge improvement. It needs to be just and fair, and I hope they don't keep getting away with this.

[@amitjohn]

the dvsa have just set out a new plan to reduce driving test waiting times! would be great to see an update on this video!!

[@alexjames4064]

Superb analysis, Richard! I would also add that test pass rates are getting lower at some centres as more and more learners desperate for a test are opting to sit one away from their local area. Inevitably, this makes passing even harder and every fail requires yet another test to be available. I hope that this situation will improve but the cynic in me thinks that because it’s a problem primarily affecting younger people that there’s less political will to do so. The DVSA is ultimately answerable to the government, and governments don’t seem to care as much about young people.

[@sillyoctopus]

Another driving instructor here agreeing with you Richard. I encourage my pupils to book their own tests for a number of reasons (independent responsibility, first hand awareness of the backlog, better suited to their timetables, etc.) so I wouldn't be affected by the loss of instructor intervention on tests personally, and I see that it might have benefits to pupil mindsets in an industry aimed at providing new drivers with independent and self reflective skills backing up their theoretical knowledge of the roads.

[@M.Lourin]

Reselling on my country is not possible, you have to book it in your name and Learner's permit card which has your ID number and Learner's ID. IF you try to resell it, you will loose your learner's permit, have to repay again to do driving school but before all that you will pay a Fine or might eat 2 months in jail. The only way to fix it in your country is making Booking tests only with ID and Leaner number/ID. Easiest fix. Also in my country Tests are conducted with 2 students and 1 examiner. 1hour exam, 30min per student. So it goes really fast, waiting time for exam is about 1-2 weeks.

[@ramanchaudhary2518]

I failed my test in November and bought a test in the near future , it works out cheaper than maintaining my regular driving lessons and the test center happens to have a much better pass rate than the one I failed In. There are no official test at any time , I didn’t have much of a choice but to pay the person selling these tests

[@AdamMusic944]

Unfortunately I think that’s the case for a lot of people, I have heard similar things happening quite regularly but the resellers always charge at least double the price, it’s shit

[@TheGhurbal]

I think the best way to prevent reselling is when someone cancels their slot, the slot won't immediately be available in the system, so they won't be able to time it with the new buyer to book it through. Many other exams do this.

[@bradlleyt]

Hi another good video you didn’t mention how many examiners have left the job since Covid my local test centre in Reading used to have about 12 examiners we are currently have two full-time examiners but they are shipping people in from other areas but nowhere near as many tests we used to have in Reading

[@ConquerDriving]

I couldn't find accurate data on that, I have sent a freedom of information request to the DVSA for examiner numbers over the last 10 years.

[@B0BHW]

Richard, that's an excellent analysis and explanation of the current driving test malaise. Totally agree with your points and suggestions.

[@bf9258]

I couldn't get anymore tests after failing my first test. Two years is a joke to have a valid theory test and like me if you couldn't get a second test within the 2 year period the you're screwed. My theory has now run out so I have to retake my theory and pass that again before I can book a new test. Absolutely ridiculous.

[@MT-dn4tu]

What a horrible situation to be in; so sorry you're having to go through that. The whole system needs a rework, it's an absolute joke.

[@bf9258]

@MT-dn4tu Thank you. I am so down about it. I'll try again but it's saving up for more lessons and then having to retake the theory. I'll pass again hopefully first time but I'm very nervous about failing the driving test and not getting another one available in my area within the time frame again. It's just added pressure.

[@mountain_watcher_8730]

@@bf9258 The wait time for tests really is a joke, but there isn't anything we can do about that. But on the other hand, it does give you a lot of time to keep improving your driving skills. I suggest trying to understand why you didn't pass your first test, if you have not already. What was the cause? I've failed two tests, both of which were due to poor perception. You want to get to a point where your basic driving skills are at a point where you don't have any problems controlling the car, such as doing hill starts, parking, ect. Once you've done that, you'll probably want to look at the most common reasons people fail their driving test. Read through all of the possible serious and dangerous faults, so you know what you need to not do. For example, I failed my second test because I used the left lane to turn right at a roundabout. I missed the sign for the roundabout (due to poor perception) so I didn't know which exit I needed. So I used the left lane to go around the roundabout until I saw the exit sign that pointed to the place I was told to go to. This is not what you want to do, as doing this is a serious fault. Roundabouts can be tricky at times, so if you are ever unsure of what to do, you could take the first exit off of the roundabout, so that it won't be possible for you to be in the wrong lane. As long as you do this in a safe way and following the highway code the examiner cannot fault you for it, and they will give you instructions for returning to the test route. Having a plan of action for situations like these will reduce the likelihood of you getting caught out and fail the test. Another example of this is the examiner telling you to open/close the window or do something in the car, right as you pass a speed limit sign. If you look inside the car to find the thing the examiner wants you to operate, you will have missed the sign, and then be driving at the wrong speed without knowing it, which is a serious fault if done for long enough. So instead you'll want to look out for signs before you attempt the 'show me' question. Once you have an idea of how to cope with all of the potential ways you can mess up, this should help with the stress/anxiety.

[@danslandmunro351]

You can look for test cancellations to avoid having to wait as long for new tests

[@bf9258]

@@danslandmunro351 I know and I did check, but as I said, there weren't any where I lived so I couldn't find another test before my theory ran out.

[@angrycat2789]

I don't live in the UK but your videos helped me get my drivers license. Thank you sir.

[@littlemilk2]

I booked my test after passing my theory and finding an instructor. With the current wait times at my local centre i was able to book in a single practical test before my theory would have expired.

[@bengriffiths4008]

Passed 3 days ago with one minor! Found the test on the government website only 4 days before the test, was supposed to be in January. Some of the apps had seemed to stop working for me though

[@ConquerDriving]

Congratulations on passing!

[@TheFullswordslord]

Imagine a world where one R. Fanders were the DVSA director. We could only dream of such a world...

[@ConquerDriving]

I'm very flattered to hear that but I would not like that job at the moment.

[@TheFullswordslord]

@ it sounds like a poisoned chalice indeed. Here’s hoping you focus on at least teaching your students to the best of your ability to have them pass. Though, being a longtime viewer of your videos, I have no doubt you’ll be more than capable of doing that! :)

[@richcasual]

This is frustrating. It's even harder for already qualified drivers such as myself. Trying to upgrade to get my Manual Licence. And I can't even go online to see if there is a cancellation. I have to call up at 8:00 in the morning and hoping there's a cancellation. so, me trying to even get a test booked is like trying to find a Niddle in a Haystack. But, however i've managed to get test booked a few months back, but not at my local test centre but an 1hour 30mins away in Portsmouth. Really what they should do, is to allow instructor drivers to pass already qualified drivers if the instructor feels that they are ready. The instructor could tell there student that they are ready for the test and all that would be needed is for the driver that's upgrading there licence to pay for the test. Once that is done the instructor would get an email from DVSA saying that their student has paid for the test and for the test to commence on their next lesson. Maybe could work for learners perhaps, might help with the back log.

[@mohamdy8950]

Best tutor on youtube

[@xvqb4826]

I booked mine the night before, best thing I ever did nerve wise, passed (Dudley)

[@FarMango]

Test centres should have a car to lend the students. There are incidents of instructors who back down, refuse to lend their car to milk money from the student, instructor’s car breaking down on the day, etc

[@tinarickman4577]

No instructors need to ‘milk money’ from students - believe me, we need them to pass and move on so we can get on with the next pupils on our waiting lists. Often, it’s pupils not accepting that they’re not ready for their test, instructors trying to encourage them to push their tests back to ensure they’re safe drivers and hence able to pass the test. The instructors are perfectly entitled to withhold the use of their car if they don’t want to risk it being damaged or lives being endangered. And who would fund the ‘spare cars’ at the test centre ??

[@FarMango]

@ Maybe not you, but my first instructor did try to milk money from me. Doesn’t teach well, micromanaging my driving, using the dual controls even when there’s no car around, always on his phone and not watching, not taking notes, patronising. Didn’t let me take my exam so I had to rebook. Changed instructors and he told me there’s nothing wrong with my driving and was ready for the test as I passed his mock tests as well. And for the spare cars, they can charge extra for use. Say like £100. Other students can still bring their own car or instructor’s car. Because the inconvenience it causes when shit happens can snowball. I was supposed to have my exam today but was only told last night that it was cancelled and rebooked again for the 31st in which not only do I have work, my instructor won’t be available that time so now I don’t have a car to use.

[@rhubarbdedubarb4232]

do instructors have a minimum fail rate cus i got failed in my last test for some complete rubbish that didn't make sense to me even after the examiner explained it, and after reviewing the dash cam footage no one else seems to understand what i was failed for either

[@CheckDisOutpeeps]

Expect it bro

[@VexOoo-x7y]

It's luck based. Depends on examiner

[@CheckDisOutpeeps]

Accept it*

[@Astrolode]

Fantastic video. Very thorough! The booking system definitely needs changing somehow.

[@vskane]

When a system manifestly works against the interest of its users you have to ask, who benefits? It’s resellers. It’s all resellers. That half baked Friday afternoon job the DVSA did to “human check” is laughable. If they put in multi factor authentication and stopped trading slots this selling on industry would evaporate overnight. Instructors are not without blame here either. I posted a note onto a Facebook group and got offers to buy test dates in my local centre, from instructors hundreds of miles away. There is money in selling test dates. If the problem is this apparent and the DVSA have no interest in fixing it then you have to ask who is benefitting.

[@gtp_vexd3507]

Love your work Richard. I always point students towards your channel. In other news: Our local test centre manager was covering tests to bring the queues down, until the two other test centres in the area lost their managers due to gross misconduct. So now our manager is satellite managing 3 centres, and conducting tests at NONE. Are you telling me the extra staff DVSA could take on to bring the rate up to 2.0 per theory, couldn’t find jobs in the DVSA offices after the backlog was cleared? There are plenty of job roles they can take RIGHT NOW that they don’t need to be trained examiners for, which would release the managers to go back to doing tests to bring the pass rate back up and get us all out of this nightmare. 🤣

[@Flipper-1201]

Test centre managers as they used to be no longer exist. They were replaced by Local Driving Test Managers. Only larger test centres have a LDTM that is theirs alone, the vast majority cover two or three depending on how many staff are based at each location. During the recovery period which ended in April all warrant card holders authorised to test were doing so, but what this meant was that for 6 months no-one was doing their day jobs, so it's not sustainable. Most of their jobs would require the holder to have the knowledge and experience of having done the examiner role, so can't be covered by other staff. Even putting all warrant card holders back to testing full time for 6 months only brought the waiting time down to about 14 weeks. Having all LDTMs testing permanently would make only a tiny difference, and when you already have a largely demoralised workforce, it is unlikely to improve matters.

[@Lanzy4lee]

I think your missing the bigger point. Your assumption is the DVSA want to bring the backlog down. I think the government want to restrict car travel so restrictions in ppl have a license who gives up on driving are growing. Also the pass rate for pupil without instructors is massive so the solution is getting my part two and past three tests increase the number of professional instructors then the pupil will be better prepared. Also I think even tho on paper the same test I feel the examiners mark driving faults and serious faults for alot less ie they are stricter.

[@hellkitty97]

I agree. The government doesn't want people driving.

[@ConquerDriving]

I agree that councils and the government are trying to encourage people to drive less but I don't agree they are using the long wait for driving tests to help them achieve this. The DVSA are trying to reduce the wait for driving tests.

[@OTH89]

Who are they going to sell their nonsense premium electric cars to though!

[@04smallmj]

If the government don't want people to drive, why do they prioritise cars almost everywhere and make cycling and public transport terrible ways to get around this country?

[@Austen.10]

I passed mine today after watching some of your videos

[@LostCoffeeCup]

In Croatia you can only go on test with your driving instructor and their car, along with that you must drive 35 hours, 5 being at night. All that being said, you cannot book your own test and you can't drive over the 35 hour mark, the wait is around 2-3 weeks depending on the time of year!

[@AIDANPEREIRA]

I passed with 16hrs of classes, no private practice and basically just watching your videos and looking through 100s of hours of mock tests while eating lunch/dinner to learn common mistakes and do observation checks when I was in the bus(basically pretending I was the driver to make it a habit). Forcing a minimum number of hours won't fix much because everyone is incredibly different. I know people who've done 60+hrs of lessons and still can't drive because they still need more practice or are too arrogant to learn because they think they're always right. This makes me believe it would be a bad idea. I also don't think allowing only instructors to book tests would fix it. Many already rinse students with hiked fees when they want to use their car for the test. If that became compulsory, I would assume that only got worse. So fewer people would be able to afford to go for a test. It would technically reduce the backlog but only because you've basically cut off people without significant disposable income from being able to take the test. A few things that could be done to reduce the backlog could be a more lenient license exchange policy. Say someone has a license from a country with an equally difficult or harder driving test. Perhaps let then (not exactly exchange but) exchange their licence but still let them keep their original licence, on the condition they pass a theory test. It will reduce the number of people who have to do the test. Another thing could be (could make it annoying so not too sure) that you're only allowed to book a driving test for yourself in person at the test centre without the ability to change names. This would be annoying but would make buying and reselling tests basically impossible.

[@lesleybutler5572]

Thankyou for these videos richard passed today. The most worrying thing was the amount of time It would have taken to rebook it if I had failed.

[@TRBNoah]

Glad to see your videos

[@MeM_UK]

Stop resellers as described. Give a retention bonus to experienced examiners. Introduce a third driving test based on a simulator. Initially this can be optional, it can increase your theory test validity as a bonus. But in time you wouldn't be able to book a test until you did the simulator test. Increase the cost of driving tests so people don't book until they are ready.

[@Pandora8_]

I actually feel incredibly lucky that i managed to get a test which i booked way back in 2023, for April 2024. The backlog is crazy. I put so much pressure on myself to pass first time, as i could not afford more lessons, another test attempt and i didnt want to wait months again. I ended up passing first time, but the amount of stress i was under was actually making me sick.

[@aimerw]

Putting the control in the instructor's hands would both be abusable and likely to make the problem worse. It would be abusable because instructors would love to have a reliable learner paying for more lessons. Far less work for the instructor, and they don't have gaps in their schedule that they have not been able to fill. It would make the backlog worse for the exact same reason - the instructor job would earn more, more reliably, and be less work. Less (if hardly any) would then become examiners.

[@gavinlang5143]

The other problem you've got is cancellation apps not being up to standard. I was lucky enough to finally get one on Testi and pass in October, but there was months of notifications either not being sent or being sent too late

[@JustinLT212]

This is a huge problem I have had to face last year, absolute disgrace that the re sellers are able to do what they do, what’s next, paying a re seller for a cancer appointment? Fcking disgraceful people. Thank god I got my license done in 2023 I wish for everyone reading this to pass

[@MaceSwinger1]

At the examiners discretion provisionally pass students with 1 serious fault as long as they do a number of hours of extra tuition on that subject that is then signed off by an ADI in the same way Pass plus is signed off.

[@cameronstarkey3165]

Best Idea I've read...it is so easy to get 1 serious fault on a driving test....and it does not mean you're a bad driver. It would allow so many decent drivers to pass without having to retake it again. I don't mind doing another 50 hours with my instructor if I get 1 serious to show I'm a competent driver as long as I'm allowed my licence at the end if it and don't have to wait months for another test!

[@Hotoadle]

Unfortunately that won't happen, as the examiners are under pressure to maintain the near 50% pass rate. A consequence will be examiners pushing more driving faults up to Serious, which possibly is now already happening as the DVSA is trying to stop pass rates falling further.

[@MaceSwinger1]

I've heard that said but I'm sure it's not true. I think there's maybe some pressure to keep your pass rate close to the average for that test centre. But there's test centres with 60-70% pass averages.

[@Emotional_Support_Twink]

With the quality of drivers on our roads in decline (people must just all of a sudden be getting worse at driving, huh) allowing even more faults in test is an absolutely awful idea. If you could do a few extra hours of tuition after failing, why couldn't you have done that before the test??? The end goal should be ensuring drivers are qualified, not increasing the number of passes. I think the driving tests should be longer, include reversing (not just in a car park), motorway driving, and overtaking to name a few. If we're going to have a driving test that tests more than the most basic driving, we might as well do all the common driving scenarios.

[@MaceSwinger1]

When people fail they just rebook with no concern for improving so I'd argue this improves standards. The nearest motorway to our test centre is over an hour way. 2 out of the 4 reverse manoeuvres are on the road not in a car park and if you don't overtake when you should on a test you can get a fault.

[@04smallmj]

I find it crazy that I started instructor training after the Covid lockdowns, became a PDI, taught for a year or so as an ADI, worked another job for a year and there are still major delays in getting a driving test!

[@majellaramsey8834]

Passed my test a week ago in n ireland we don't have this awful waiting list Thankgod and Thankyou for your videos really really helped me pass

[@Wonson16]

Support to block change names by DVSA. I am quite sure this could force resellers to free up their holding slots, which is A LOT.

[@damciooo7651]

I'm so glad I only needed to wait 1 week for the test in Iceland

[@drbennyboombatz9195]

It's just too convoluted, too much bureaucracy, too much admin, too much money/resources involved, you could get a bunch of over 50 lorry drivers to sit in the car with the student for 2 hours and they could just say "good enough" or "fail", no ticking any boxes or any bs, theyre more than qualified to tell who's dangerous and who's not, all the se government ministries are gonna send the economy to zero

[@pantopia3518]

I learnt to drive in Spain in 2022. I’m pretty sure I booked the test a week before.

[@japoemka]

Where I come from, test swaps aren’t allowed, and the waiting time is usually between 2 and 4 weeks. 😊

[@japoemka]

Also, we need to do a minimum of 30 hours with a driving instructor before booking booking the test. There is no option to use your own/instructor's car during the test. Candidates are expected to use the designated vehicles supplied by the testing centers during their driving exams

[@Rare_Pepe]

Is this Japan?

[@PointNemo9]

Where are you from?

[@japoemka]

​@Rare_Pepe Poland 😊 but I've been living in the UK for over 10 years, and I'm learning here!

[@japoemka]

​@@PointNemo9Poland 😊

[@TheChees1996]

my solution is simple go to the post office with your provisional and another from of id and book it. no booking for some else just your self. and no refunds.

[@TheWhiteCanvasPSN]

On the subject of needing a minimum amount of hours before you can sit your test; You need to do 12 lessons (12 hours) of driving lessons in Ireland before you can have your test. I don't know the stats but that might be a good real life example to look at to base your theory on how it might work in the UK. The problem in Ireland, however, is that young people need to pay for the theory test, the practical test, borrow/rent a car for the test, but also have to pay about 600 euro on driving lessons. It's very expensive for someone starting young.

[@Grahamvfr]

Surely in the dvsa when someone first realised tests were being re sold, alarm bells should have immediately sounded, andvthe powers that be stating "right let's get this sorted now"..... obvious isn't it. 🤷

[@Cardetailingburnley]

I fully agree with you on driving tests

[@hudders11]

Sadly, driving standards in the country are pretty poor from many drivers already. We likely have more unqualified drivers on our roads than ever before, because either theyre not willing to put in the time and money to get a license, or they have used someone else to take their test for them. The amount of ridiculously risky driving i see regularly is frightening

[@michaelgreen4807]

I don't even think it's unlicensed individuals who are the bulk of the problem - people are just getting more and more impatient and lower attention spans, leading to dangerous and careless driving, and that isn't unique to non-license holders.

[@hudders11]

@michaelgreen4807 no it absolutely isn't. I can well believe the majority of it is from licence holders. You'd think licences were given the it as raffle prizes at times

[@domdru2967]

if there's no backlog, not allowing name change doesn't matter. Having early dates doesn't matter if they are always available to book. And while they may not officially charge for a test date, those schools that hold test dates are basically selling test dates by including that in their price.

[@xxspeedyxx]

Great video as always!

[@mx_cre8tivename]

The idea of making the name and similar info hard to change seems to be the most logical. To mitigate the downside instructors could be allowed to reserve/ modify tests of their pupils with the condition that the instructor who makes the modifications being required to attend the test (to deter instructors from abusing their power and selling tests). Alternatively making the cut off for a refund earlier so that sellers have to cancel their tests further in advance giving people that need the test more time to book it could help

[@pantopia3518]

It seems crazy to me that you can change the name on a driving test. Of course it’s going to lead to reselling of tests which of course leads to a shortage

[@waleedehsan2307]

What if they shorten the test length? So you can fit more tests in a day

[@faces_of_horror]

Have my test January 7th. Much more stressful thinking if you fail how long it will be to get another. Even if I managed to get one it could conflict with someone else’s with my instructor. I’m on medication for anxiety as it is. Don’t need anymore stress 😂

[@Via9119]

I definitely relate to this. I have my 1st test booked a month after yours (6th Feb) and I feel so much pressure to pass because of how long it takes to get another test. My work has also said we can no longer wfh starting January and it takes me 3 hours a day with public transport to get into the office, and that's if there's no delays! Add delays and there's been times that I've travelled 4-5 hours a day. With a car, you're looking at 1 hour a day travelling 😭

[@faces_of_horror]

@Via9119 Yeah it definitely sucks. I'm really only learning because I have a disabled son and have to rely on others to take us to hospital appointments for him. Otherwise I would probably never bothered. I'll cross my fingers for you and wish you the best of luck. You still have lots of time to iron out any issues you may have 🙏

[@Mamazeta]

I have tried 2 times this year to become a DVSA driving Examiner in Colchester incidently (having not met their high standard on the recruitment drive each time despite me having a clean driving licence for over 25yrs and no at fault accidents.) They also didn't indicate what they were really looking for on that drive..a huge shame for them as I passed the online test at 80% better than others and the interview even said I exceeded the customer service elements they were looking for with a high score of 24/28. The last time I even had to do the Theory test with a pass rate above 47 out of 50 which was achieved. It was very frustrating to have reached the last stage at both times but I now think I've dodged a bullet not passing it as the pay rate was less than ideal and it all sounds very stressful. My nearly 17yr old son has said he isn't interested in learning to drive and I don't blame him. This process sounds like a nightmare for newer learners especially with the resellers.

[@chrisnewman6062]

I would lock the general public booking to their full DL number including the small number on the back. make it so that only one test can exist for that DL number - and not allow that to be changed in the system. add some friction that if it needed altering, they have to ring up the dvla and explain why - making it less cost effective to be altered for the "reseller". if a DI makes a booking on behalf of a learner, their ADI number is required to allow that flexibility. ADI numbers can be tracked to look out for that reselling/mass fiddling the system. it wouldn't take much data to work out what the "norm" for bookings in this way would be. then, the general resellers are barred forever. there's no need for them.

[@tanveerahmed3399]

17:14 I think it would be better it will also increase the road safety i mean in aviation its the norm so I guess I should also work for cars .

[@KatarzynaCzarniak-iy3qt]

Very interesting content. Thanks a lot!

[@comrade786z]

We Should change the test so 3 serious faults cause a fail, not just 1. Its so easy to make a serious fault, and if you take anyone on the road right now and got them to retake the exam, without a doubt most of them would make a serious fault or 2 (like speeding slightly, not checking blind spots, etc etc.).

[@jilly4521]

I booked my test for January in July but I now have an important thing for uni on that date so I’ve had to change it and the earliest I could get was May. It’s impossible to not “panic book” because unless your psychic then there’s no way to know if you’re 100% gonna be available for that date.

[@devononair]

Another thing they could do is allow you to book a driving test before you've passed the theory. They could still say you can't TAKE the test until you've passed, but at least you could book (or be on a waiting list).

[@handcandyrocks]

I think driving instructors could do their bit maybe one day a month or so I certainly would train and give up a few days per month to examine students. This would solve the driving examiner shortage

[@ellisj98]

This would never work as: - They cannot be trained enough in that time to become a qualified examiner. - There could always be a conflict of interest with students or past students.

[@handcandyrocks]

@ the training standard is lower than required by instructors to pass part 3. I don’t allow students who are not test ready to take my car to test but many ignore advice and try anyway in alternative cars and waste an opportunity for someone else who is capable. Not sure there is a fix for this It was fairly common for instructors to become examiners until pay gap became so big. Not sure what this conflict of interest would be. Examiners could just as easily pass friends and family or offer to pass people in the manner suggested by your comment. I think a sufficient strong deterrent would be effective here. The reason there are no tests is because there aren’t enough examiners and this is because I’m on £50ph and they get £28k a year. I have considered the job a few times but drop in pay is too large. Stopping bots only makes the tests cheaper to public not more of them.

[@XUENZA]

I wasn't very intelligent in school but I was surprised I passed my theory with 1 question wrong and Past my practical first time

[@johnbacon8394]

I booked mine the other day and the first one available was the 22nds of april

[@rockwell666]

I started lessons in February 2023 and as soon as I began I tried to book a Test, but the first date available in Portsmouth was in September! So I booked that date, knowing that I'd be ready a lot sooner (I'd been riding a motorbike for 16 years and passed my IAM Bike Test in 2011). When I was ready for my Test I started looking for a cancellation and found one on a Saturday in May. It was 13 quid more expensive, but better than waiting another four months! However it wouldn't be difficult for the DVSA to get rid of the rip-off merchants by simply ensuring that the name and details on a Test booking *cannot* be subtantially changed, so if it's booked in the name of John Smith, but then someone tries to change it to Fred Bloggs, the booking is voided, the fee is lost and, bingo, no profit. BTW I found this video because, even though I have already passed my Test and have been driving for over a year, there's still useful stuff I can pick up from your videos which are by far the best and most helpful I found when I was learning and still are now. Thanks very much!

[@lancethrust9488]

IN 2000S SOUTHPORT WAS KNOWN FOR EASY BOOKING I REMEMBER RINGING UP AND THEY SAID WERE AVAILABLE TOMORROW , I SAID NO BOOKED FOR 1 WEEK LATER , FOUND A instructor BOOKED ABOUT 8 LESSONS WITH TEST AND PASSED