The Driver and Vehicle Standards Agency (DVSA) will make changes to practical driving tests to make sure learner drivers are better prepared.
The Government commenced a trial in February 2023 to see how driving tests could be improved and modernised.
But what exactly are the new driving test rules? When will new driving test rules come into force?
Here is everything you need to know about the new rules when booking your practical.
Digital certificates will be issued as part of the changes, replacing the paper version (pictured)
What are the new driving test rules?
The contents of driving tests will not change, with candidates being subject to the same manoeuvres.
Ministers are considering proposals including other ways to carry out eyesight checks that are not dependent on light conditions or reading the number plate of a vehicle.
After a consultation, ministers agreed with the proposal for digital pass certificates to be issued to drivers who pass their theory test and driving test, instead of paper versions.
The proposed changes apply to England, Scotland and Wales, with Northern Ireland managing driving tests under its own system.
Loveday Ryder, chief executive of the DVSA, encouraged learner drivers to check the agency’s website for full details before booking a test.
She said: ‘With more than half of people failing their driving test, it is clear more needs to be done to make sure learner drivers only take their test when they are fully prepared.
‘These new measures will help make sure test-ready learners find appointments and give those who fail more time for more practice.
‘I also urge learners to check out our Ready to Pass? website to make sure they’re ready – and delay their test if they’re not.
‘This will help make more tests available and prevent them having to pay to retest.’
Why are driving tests changing?
The DVSA said the system will change in order to discourage drivers from booking tests before they are ready to take them.
In turn, this will free up slots for those who are.
Tests were banned over lockdown, resulting in a backlog which forced some drivers to wait months before they had the opportunity to pass their test.
The cost of a practical test will not change. The standard fee of £62 for daytime weekday slots, and £75 for evenings, weekends or bank holidays, will remain the same.
DVSA data from February 2023 showed that 53% of tests are failed, with examiners being required to intervene in more than 12% of tests for safety reasons.
Pictured: A driver ripping up their L-plate after passing their driving test. The driving test the system will change in order to discourage drivers from booking tests before they are ready to take them
When will the new driving test rules come into force?
The Government has not set a date for when the new rules for driving tests will be implemented.
The Government website states: ‘After the trials have been completed, we will review the feedback from those who have been involved to help identify what has gone well and what could be improved.
‘This will help determine which of the options are most successful and help map out the next steps.
‘We will keep you updated on this project’s progress.’
