traffic jam... in the queue

THE driving test backlog has accelerated over 600,000 for the first time.

- By Neil Lancefield

Some 603,352 practical tests were booked at the end of April, up from 521,190 a year ago, Driver and Vehicle Standards Agency data shows.

Despite growing demand, the total of tests held in the first third of 2025 is 15% lower at 610,000 than 718,000 a year earlier.

There were more tests than usual from October 2023 to March 2024 as all eligible DVSA staff were temporarily moved over to be examiners.