Driving tests postponed for third UK lockdown
Did you have a driving test booked this month? Here’s what lockdown means for you…
The Driver and Vehicle Standards Agency (DVSA) has confirmed that all driving and riding tests will be postponed until after the new ‘Tier 5’ lockdown restrictions have eased.
The decision applies to all driving and riding lessons, including CBT, ADI part two and three tests, and standards checks, as well as all theory tests.
Driving test on hold
The third national lockdown in England was confirmed by Prime Minister Boris Johnson on 4th January 2021 to help tackle rising coronavirus cases.
The DVSA has said all driving and riding tests will be suspended until lockdown restrictions in each nation have relaxed in a way that allows them to continue.
All affected candidates receive an email confirming the postponement and can expect a later email with a reschedule date.
If your driving instructor booked the test on your behalf, they’ll contact you separately to let you know when your test will go ahead.
England’s lockdown rules are set to be reviewed on 15th February 2021, while Scotland will look at its rules later this month.
Making tests safe
Driving tests were suspended throughout the first lockdown, causing a huge backlog of learners who were unable to take their tests between 20th March 2020 and 3rd August 2020.
On resuming driving tests, the DVSA implemented various rules to keep learners and driving instructors safe.
These included closing some test centre waiting areas where social distancing was not possible, asking attendees not to arrive more than five minutes before their test began, and requiring drivers to thoroughly clean the interior of their car before the test begins.
A window also had to be kept open on each side of the car for the duration of the test.
Are you worried about keeping your car free from coronavirus during essential journeys? Use our helpful cleaning guide to keep your car germ free.
