Important Update: Changes to How You Book Your Driving Test

The DVSA have announced major changes to the way car driving tests are booked — and this will affect how we manage bookings at Newmans Driving School.

🆕 What’s Changing

From now on, only the learner driver will be able to book or manage their own practical driving test — and it can only be changed once.

Although the DVSA’s new rules officially come into effect in the spring, test dates are already being released as far ahead as May, which means instructors can no longer manage those bookings on behalf of pupils.

Because of this, we at Newmans Driving School will begin following the new system immediately, as we won’t be able to access or adjust test dates once they fall within the new rule period.

These updates are part of the DVSA’s effort to make the system fairer, reduce waiting times, and stop misuse by third-party booking services and bots.

What This Means for You (and How We’ll Help)

Because of these changes:

• You’ll now need to book and manage your own driving test directly through the DVSA booking system.

• We’ll no longer be able to do this for you, as we have done in the past.

• You’ll only be able to change your test date once, so it’s more important than ever to plan carefully and choose a test date when you’re confident you’ll be ready.

Even though we can’t book the test for you anymore, we’ll still fully support you every step of the way:

• We’ll advise you when to take your theory test.

• We’ll guide you on the best time to book your practical test, so you have the maximum chance of getting the test date you want.

• We’ll continue to provide lesson planning, test-route preparation, and all the coaching you need to pass with confidence.

Why the Change Is Happening

The DVSA’s new rules are designed to make the booking process fairer for genuine learner drivers. By giving learners full control over their own test bookings, the aim is to cut down on misuse and help reduce waiting times for everyone.

Although this means a small change in how we manage things, our goal remains exactly the same — to help you become a safe, confident driver and pass your test as smoothly as possible.