DVSA is committed to creating a modern, flexible and efficient driving test service that is less dependent upon fixed estate and takes advantage of the investment and development of new technology.

They set this out in the 2022/23 business plan that was published in May of this year.

Creating a more flexible driving test centre estate allows them to react where the road and traffic conditions near a centre have evolved and no longer provide the best environment in which to assess a candidate’s ability to drive. 

Proof of concept

In January 2023 the DVSA are running trials at two driving test centres  (Doncaster and Birmingham (Kings Heath)). They are exploring extending the trial to other sites and will update you if they do.

During the trials 50% of the tests at the centres taking part will be done from an alternative site close to the existing driving test centre such as community buildings or sports and retail centres.

The DVSA will contact your pupils if their tests will be moved to take place from one of the alternative sites. If you made the booking for your pupil and you receive the email you must let them know.

Keeping you updated

At the end of the trial the DVSA will evaluate how successful the different approaches have been. To do this they will talk to driving examiners, your pupils and ADIs who were involved in tests from a trial site. They will keep you up-to-date on progress and on the next steps for the work.