Driving test changes are coming – here’s what learners need to know
Car changing is a big deal
From 31 March 2026, learner drivers in England, Scotland, and Wales can only make two changes to their driving test booking. Here’s what you need to know and how to prepare to pass.
If you’re a learner driver, a major change is coming to the way you book your driving test.
From 31 March, the Driver and Vehicle Standards Agency (DVSA) is introducing stricter rules on how many times you can change your driving test appointment.
These changes aim to make the booking system fairer, prevent exploitation, and ensure learners are prepared and serious about their test dates.
Here’s everything you need to know about the new rules, how they affect you, and tips to pass your theory and practical tests.
Remember, you can buy a brand new or used car right here on Carwow. And you can sell your car, too. We’re here to help you through every step of your car-changing journey.
Making changes to your driving test
From 31 March 2026:
- You’ll only be able to make two changes to your existing car driving test booking.
- If you’ve already used all changes under the current rules, you will be able to make two more changes from this date.
- Later in Spring 2026, you’ll only be able to move your test to centres near where you originally booked.
We recommend you only use your limited changes for genuine needs or emergencies.
What counts as a change, and what if you need more?
Each of the following count as one change:
- Changing the date or time of your test.
- Changing the test centre.
- Swapping your appointment with another learner driver who already has a test booked.
If you change more than one detail at the same time, such as both the date and the test centre, it counts as a single change. For example, moving your test from Northampton on 4 June to Kettering on 12 May is considered one change.
The DVSA said that if you use both changes and need more:
- You must cancel your test and book a new one.
- You’ll receive a full refund if you cancel at least 10 full working days before the test date.
Important rules about the two-change limit
Here are some other things you need to know about this booking change:
- If the DVSA needs to change a test (for example, due to bad weather), this does not count toward your two-change limit.
- If a test is cancelled and you need to rebook, the two-change limit will reset.
- Learners who have already used all changes before 31 March 2026 will still get two more changes, as all bookings reset to zero changes on this date.
Tips to pass your theory and practical driving test
Here are some quick tips on how to pass your driving test:
|
Theory test tips 1. Practice regularly with DVSA-approved apps and mock tests. 2. Take notes on tricky road signs and rules. 3. Review official DVSA materials to cover all topics thoroughly. 4. Familiarise yourself with local test routes. 5. Learn from lessons and review mistakes with your instructor. |
Practical test tips 1. Watch hazard perception clips carefully and anticipate risks. 2. Stay calm and read each question carefully. 3. Book your test at a time when you feel alert and confident. 4. Master key manoeuvres such as reversing, parallel parking, and emergency stops. 5. Stay calm under pressure and listen carefully to your examiner. |
By planning ahead and using your two allowed changes wisely, you can stay in control of your booking and increase your chances of passing first time.
Car change? Carwow!
Looking for a new set of wheels? With Carwow you can sell your car quickly and for a fair price – as well as find great offers on your next one. Whether you’re looking to buy a car brand new, are after something used or you want to explore car leasing options, Carwow is your one stop shop for new car deals.
Click here to follow us on WhatsApp, where you can keep up-to-date with all the latest news, reviews, advice guides and videos.