70,000 learner drivers facing test deadline should have extension or fees waived

Some 70,000 learner drivers facing a deadline for their tests should be granted an extension or fee waiver, say Britain’s two biggest motoring organisations.

The AA and RAC urged Grant Shapps, the Transport Secretary, to intervene to avoid the largely young drivers losing out because of the driving test chaos caused by the pandemic.

They have passed their driving theory tests but they only remain valid if they then complete their practical driving test within two years.

With driving tests axed in lockdowns and a backlog of around 420,000 cancellations, the two organisations say the young L-drivers should be granted a stay in a similar way to MoTs and driving licences.

Robert Cowell, interim managing director of AA Driving School, said: “Many learners also missed out on tests because their theory test expired in lockdown and are now back at square one.

“If theory test certificates are extended, in the same way MOTs and driving licences were, this could reduce demand on lessons and tests. If theory tests cannot be extended, they could at least be offered a free re-sit to reduce the financial impact of having to re-take their test.”

Nicholas Lyes, RAC head of roads policy, said the backlog meant there would be huge demand for tests that would add to young drivers’ anxieties. It is thought there are about 380,000 learners also waiting to sit theory tests before they can try to secure a practical examination.

“Because of such high demand, the Driver and Vehicle Standards Agency may wish to consider a short time-limited extension for those whose theory test either has or is about to expire, or alternatively waive the fee for a resit,” he said.

The call came as it emerged that learner drivers waiting to take a practical driving test could face waits of up to five months even after lockdown because of the backlog of 420,000 cancellations.

The figure came to light after the Government announced driving lessons would go ahead in England and Wales from April 12 at the earliest, with driving tests due to start again on April 22.

A DVSA spokesman said: “Candidates affected by the suspension are automatically being booked on to the next available test at their chosen centre. As soon as it is safe DVSA will increase the number of driving and theory tests available.”

The DVSA has hired 300 extra examiners to join the existing 1,675 to help with clearing the pile-up of cancellations.

The DVSA said it was not extending theory test certificates to ensure drivers' safety: “Ensuring new drivers have current, relevant knowledge and skills to identify developing hazards is a vital part of the training for young and new drivers, who are disproportionately represented in casualty statistics."