Learner drivers may face waiting until 2021 to sit their test

INFRASTRUCTURE Minister Nichola Mallon has been urged to reveal the backlog of driving tests after they had been put on hold during the Covid-19 lockdown,

And it’s understood some young people seeking to take theirtestmayhavetowaituntil 2021 before being able to do so.

Chair of the Infrastructure Committee, DUP MLA Michelle Mcilveen, said details should be now published of what she considers the backlog of driving tests to actually be.

In response to concerns raised about delays to driving tests a spokesperson for the Department said “it will take six to eight weeks to clear the backlog.”

But Ms Mcilveen said it was her understanding that some young people seeking to take their driving test may have to wait until 2021 before being able to do so.

“Six to eight weeks is the usual backlog within the DVA system even during normal times. At the moment people cannot even apply for a test,” she said.

“I understand some of those young people have been told it could be next year before they will be able to take a driving test.”

It has also revealed that learner drivers who were due to sit a driving test in Craigavon are being sent to Armagh and Lisburn instead.

“This situation is untenable and places local motorists at a distinct disadvantage,” said Upper Bann MP Carla Lockhart.

A Department for Infrastructure spokesperson said: “The DVA has worked hard to restore services and communicate the facts to all customers. It is vitally important that health and safety is put first while working to minimise disruption.

“On July 28 the minister announced that the DVA is planning to resume some practical car and lorry driving tests from September 1. The DVA holds the contact details of around 3,800 driving test candidates who are either key workers, or who had a test booked and cancelled in late March to the end of June. When driver testing resumes around 200 key workers will be tested first.

“The DVA estimates it will take six to eight weeks to clear the backlog. A further update will be provided to advise when it is opening its booking system for all new customers.”