Booking tests from 31st March
Changes to driving test booking rules in 2026
What the new rules are
The new rules for booking and managing car driving tests will be introduced from spring 2026.
The exact dates will be confirmed nearer the time.
| Rule | Current rules | New rules | From when |
|---|---|---|---|
| Who can book your test | You or your driving instructor | Only you | From later in spring 2026 |
| Who can manage your test | You or your driving instructor | Only you | From later in spring 2026 |
| Number of changes allowed | Up to 6 changes | Only 2 changes | From 31 March 2026 |
| Where you can move your test | Any test centre | Only to test centres near to where you originally booked | From later in spring 2026 |
This rule applies to all drivers, including learners and instructors.
Booking your car driving test
From later in spring 2026, you will need to book your car driving test yourself on GOV.UK. Your driving instructor will not be able to book it for you.
You should:
- only book at a test centre you intend to use – you will only be able to move your test to nearby centres
- only book when your driving instructor says you’re ready – speak to your driving instructor first
- use your driving instructor’s reference number when you book – this will make sure your instructor does not get double-booked
- choose a date you realistically expect to be ready by – you will only be allowed to make 2 changes to your appointment
Making changes to your car driving test
From 31 March 2026, you will only be able to make 2 changes to your existing booking. If you’ve already used all changes under the current rules, you will be able to make 2 more changes from 31 March 2026.
From later in spring 2026, you will only be able to move your test to centres near to where you originally booked.
Only use your limited changes for genuine needs or emergencies.
What will count as changes
These things each count as a change:
- changing the date or time
- changing the test centre
- swapping your appointment with another learner driver who already has a test booked
If you need to make more changes
If you need to make more changes after you have used your 2 changes, you will have to cancel your test and book a new one.
You will get a full refund if you do it at least 10 full working days’ before the test date.
Change your driving test appointment.
Read the full article here
