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

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

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

To do this, DVSA 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.

Telling your pupils about the change

They’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 were being sent yesterday.

Please make sure that your pupils know about the change when you have your next lesson with them.

What happens next

DVSA will email you again on Tuesday 8 April 2025 to confirm that the change has come into force.

They’ll also email everyone with a car driving test booking again to tell them and remind them of their new deadline.

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.