DVSA - Driving test short notice cancellation period to change on 8 April 2025

When we published our 7-point plan to reduce driving test waiting times on 18 December 2024, we confirmed that one of the actions would be to increase the short notice cancellation period.

We are increasing the short notice cancellation period for car driving tests from 3 clear working days to 10 clear working days. We intend to introduce this change on Tuesday 8 April 2025.

To do this, we need to change legislation. This process was started today (Monday 17 March 2025) when a Statutory Instrument was laid before Parliament to change the rules. If Parliament approves the change, it will come into force from 8 April 2025.

This change only applies to car driving tests.

We’re emailing everyone with a car driving test booking to tell them what their new deadline to change or cancel without losing the fee will be. Theses emails are being sent today.

More information

On GOV.UK you can find more information about:

• why the change is being introduced

• how learner drivers can still apply for a refund if they are unwell or have had a bereavement

• the current and new deadlines for any car driving tests taking place from 8 April to the end of June 2025, to help you through this change.

  
  

New rule for driving test changes and cancellations to reduce waiting times.