The Driver and Vehicle Standards Agency (DVSA) has introduced a significant update to its cancellation policy for car driving tests, extending the required notice period from three to ten working days to avoid forfeiting the test fee. Effective immediately, learners must now plan ahead if they wish to reschedule or cancel their practical car test, as last-minute changes could result in a lost payment.
Key Details of the New Policy
- Working Days Defined: The notice period counts Monday through Saturday as working days, excluding Sundays and public holidays.
- Scope: The ten-day rule applies exclusively to car driving tests. Theory tests, motorcycle and bus exams, driving instructor assessments, and specialist vehicle tests retain the original three-day notice requirement.
- Refund Exceptions: Even with late cancellations, fees may be refunded under specific circumstances, including medical issues, the death of a close family member, or mandatory educational exams.
Rationale Behind the Change
The DVSA highlighted that frequent last-minute cancellations often left test slots unfilled, wasting valuable appointment availability. By extending the notice period, the agency aims to give other learners adequate time to prepare and book vacated slots, optimizing scheduling efficiency.
Flexibility for Exceptional Cases
Recognizing unforeseen hardships, the DVSA will still grant refunds for late cancellations tied to emergencies. Applicants must provide evidence, such as a medical certificate or exam timetable, to qualify for these exceptions.
This adjustment seeks to balance stricter scheduling discipline with compassion for genuine emergencies, ensuring smoother test administration while accommodating learners’ unpredictable challenges.
