**Accelerating Change: 10,000 Extra Driving Tests Per Month to Clear the Backlog!**

In a bold move to address the frustrating backlog of driving tests in England, Transport Secretary Heidi Alexander announced a plan to provide an additional 10,000 driving tests per month. This initiative aims to significantly reduce the waiting period for learner drivers, many of whom have been waiting over five months to secure a test slot. In a recent session with parliament’s transport committee, Alexander stated that the current wait times are ”totally unacceptable”, revealing that in some regions, the wait for a test can exceed six months.

The government has set a new target to lower the average waiting time to no more than seven weeks by summer 2026, although this comes as a delay compared to the original plan set by the Driver and Vehicle Standards Agency (DVSA), which aimed for this timeline by the end of this year. The DVSA cited an increase in demand and changes in booking behavior as key factors contributing to the backlog.

To combat the delays, additional measures include doubling the training capacity for driving examiners, encouraging qualified DVSA staff to return to examining roles, and reintroducing overtime pay incentives for staff working on driving tests. Last year, a record 1.95 million tests were booked, prompting further scrutiny of the booking system.

Alexander has also highlighted plans to eliminate test booking bots that have been exploiting the system, securing multiple slots for reselling at inflated prices, which has made it even harder for genuine learners to book tests.

Learner driver Millie Moyler, who has been waiting for near 18 months for her slot, expressed how the delays have adversely affected her life. Driving instructor Sue Howe noted that prior to COVID-19, waiting periods were around 10 weeks but have drastically increased due to a shortage of examiners. Emma Bush, managing director of AA Driving School, welcomed these initiatives, emphasizing the need for quick passage through the driving test system for those reliant on a license for employment or education.