Action call over rise in driving test wait times
More than half a million learner drivers are waiting to take their test amid a huge backlog, according to new figures.
AA Driving School, which obtained data from the Driver and Vehicle Standards Agency (DVSA), said the queue for tests is "too long" and called for a "clear plan" to address the issue.
Driving tests were prohibited during coronavirus lockdowns, leading to a backlog of candidates.
DVSA figures for October 22 show 538,832 tests were booked for the following 24 weeks.
AA Driving School interim managing director Robert Cowell said: "Learners were left disappointed when the Government decided not to extend theory test certificates that expired in the lockdowns, as they did with MOTs, and it's disheartening to see that the practical test backlog reached half a million tests this year.
"Driving instructors adapted to make lessons safer when restrictions lifted, but the DVSA has still not caught up enough to meet demand and questions need to be asked about what support they can get to ensure we don't end up in the same position if restrictions come back."
The DVSA has announced a series of measures to boost test slots, including holding tests outside normal hours, recruiting more examiners and asking recently retired examiners to return.
DVSA chief executive Loveday Ryder said: "We are doing all we can to provide as many tests as possible.
"I know learners will be keen to take their test now, but it is important that they are properly prepared for their test and don't take it before they are ready.