AA Driving School welcomes Government driving test reforms

The company said the changes are a "positive step" towards addressing long wait times that have frustrated learners across the country, but warned that further action is still needed.

Emma Bush, managing director of AA Driving School, said: "AA Driving School welcomes these changes to the driving test booking system as a positive step towards tackling the ongoing backlog.

AA Driving School has welcomed new government measures to reform the driving test booking system, saying the changes are a “step in the right direction” for learners facing long delays - but warned that further action is needed to tackle the backlog. (Image: The AA)

"Learner drivers have been facing unacceptably long waiting times, which has had a real impact on their independence, employment opportunities and daily lives."

The phased changes, set to begin from spring 2026, include reducing the number of permitted test changes from six to two, requiring learners to manage their own bookings, and introducing limits on how far appointments can be moved.

These measures aim to curb misuse of the system, such as through the use of bots and the resale of test slots at inflated prices.

However, practical test waiting times remain well above pre-pandemic levels, with many learners waiting months for a slot.

Ms Bush said: "However, while this is a move in the right direction, it is not a silver bullet.

"Reducing waiting times will still require sustained action to increase test capacity and learners need to ensure they're fully prepared for their test."