Back in April 2025, we launched a trial introducing a few subtle but meaningful changes to the car driving test. The goal? To make the test experience more reflective of the current everyday conditions motorists face, and to better prepare learners for a lifetime of safe driving.
Now that the trial has reached its conclusion, I’m really pleased to share that it’s been a success and we’re now making these changes a permanent part of the driving test from 24 November 2025.
The story so far: what we did and why
The trial, which took place at 20 driving test centres across Great Britain, focused on 3 key adjustments. These were:
- reducing the number of stops during the test from 4 to 3
- lowering the frequency of emergency stop exercises from 1 in 3 tests to 1 in 7
- adding flexibility to the independent driving segment (this can be following a sat nav, traffic signs or both) to run for the full duration of the test
These changes were designed to improve the overall flow of the test and better reflect real-world driving conditions. By putting them into place and allowing for more meaningful route planning, examiners have been able to observe learner drivers in a more natural and realistic driving environment. That’s why we’re rolling out the changes to all driving test centres.
What success looks like: why these changes matter
For us, success isn’t just about learner drivers passing their tests – it’s about developing safer, more competent drivers.
Making the above adjustments has helped create test routes that venture into more high-speed and high-risk areas – where location allows – and has given learners the opportunity to face a broader range of driving scenarios. The extension of independent driving has also given learners more time to demonstrate their ability to follow directions independently, just like they would after passing their test.
As well as this, by reducing the number of stops and emergency stop exercises, the test feels more like a genuine drive, helping learners stay focused and relaxed during what we know can, understandably, be a nerve-wracking experience.
Feedback and benefits
But don’t just take our word for it. Feedback from examiners who have taken part in the trial has been overwhelmingly positive. Here’s what some of them had to say:
“The reduction in normal stops has allowed the test to flow more fluently.”
“The trial has helped us create routes that reach new areas.”
“Customers appear to be better prepared whilst using the sat nav.”
“The changes better reflect more realistic driving conditions.”
“At first, I thought the changes were a bit unnecessary, we already had routes covering high-speed and rural roads. But including those roads in all tests, instead of relying mainly on town driving, is a much better reflection of real-world conditions.”
How will this impact learners?
The simple answer is it won’t. For learners, the test will still cover all the essential skills needed to drive safely and independently. The adjustments will simply make the experience smoother and more reflective of real-world driving.
For examiners, the changes offer more flexibility in route planning and provide a better opportunity to assess learner drivers in varied conditions.
For the public, we hope the ultimate benefit is safer, more confident new drivers on the road.
Making progress
The trial was originally set to run for 3 months but was extended by 2 months to allow us to observe driving behaviour during the busy summer period. It officially concluded in October 2025.
During the trial, we visited a large portion of the sites involved. While on these visits, we had the chance to sit in on a number of tests and observe the trial routes first-hand, which was incredibly valuable and gave us a real sense of how the changes were working in practice.
We’re proud of the progress made so far and are grateful to everyone who took part in the trial. This has been an immense team effort, and we wouldn’t be at this point without the hard work from everyone involved.
On behalf of my colleagues Graham, Amanda and myself, thank you. We’ll continue to keep you updated about any future changes and if you have any questions, please add them in the comments. We’d love to hear from you.
50 comments
Comment by Charoun Chouskoglou posted on
All these changes are absolutely necessary for safer drivers. However, students who don’t have the support financially and they are located in central london has been particularly hard for them as they have not been able to book longer then an hour lessons to experience driving more then 20mph. What can be done to address this issue?
Comment by lucyrobinson posted on
While the changes to the driving test are designed to improve safety and competence, we recognise that access to varied driving experiences can be more difficult in busy urban areas where speed limits are lower and lessons are often shorter. Concerns about the increase in 20mph limits have been noted, and the impact on driving test routes is being monitored.
Comment by Liam Aspin posted on
Will there be any changes to the extended driving tests?
Comment by lucyrobinson posted on
The changes will be reflected in extended driving tests as well. These adjustments are minor and do not alter the core skills that learners are required to demonstrate. The extended test will continue to assess safe control, awareness, and decision making, with the independent driving section varying in length depending on local road and traffic conditions. The aim remains to ensure that all drivers, whether taking the standard or extended test, are assessed fairly and consistently on their ability to drive safely and competently.
Comment by Emmanuel posted on
This is lovely to read!
Thank you for these changes.
Comment by Ana posted on
Completely unnecessary. Changes should have been for people who have still yet to book their test. Our instructors have prepared us for the test, using the old system. I have my test in 3 weeks. This was a silly idea and not required. The test is hard enough, now you want to extend the independent driving portion. Learners already have enough to worry about. Including nerves of being tested, which kick into overdrive when it is independent driving, and we take a sigh of relief when it is over. This is not welcome and I know it will not be welcome for the majority of learners. Disgrace.
Comment by lucyrobinson posted on
These are very minor adjustments to the driving test, and learners are still required to demonstrate the same core skills they have always needed. The independent driving section has always varied in length depending on local road and traffic conditions. This change simply formalises that flexibility, allowing examiners to adapt the route to reflect real-world driving situations more accurately.
The aim is not to make the test harder or add unnecessary pressure, but to ensure that learners are assessed fairly and consistently, while continuing to focus on competence and safety. Learners can be reassured that the fundamental skills they have been preparing for remain unchanged.
Comment by THADDEUS KWASI ARMOH posted on
Nice,good looking idea and looking forward to meet it in my driving practical exams.
Comment by Olusegun Olubodun posted on
Are these changes going to be carried out only in rural towns or cities are included?
Comment by lucyrobinson posted on
These minor changes will apply to all driving tests from Monday 24 November, across both rural and urban test centres. In some locations there may be little noticeable difference to routes at first, as adjustments will take time and depend on local road and traffic conditions. The aim is to ensure that all learners are assessed consistently, while continuing to focus on safe and competent driving.
Comment by jane plackett posted on
Could have given a little more time for the new test, why not bring it in the new year rather than next week !!
Comment by lucyrobinson posted on
These are very minor adjustments to the driving test, and learners are still required to demonstrate the same core skills they’ve always needed. Because the learning syllabus itself hasn’t changed, there was no requirement for a lengthy notice period or new legislation, the statutory framework already allows for these updates.
Comment by Rachel posted on
Can I please ask now the Sat Nav will be for the whole duration of the driving test, will this still be by the Tom Tom Start 52 ?
Because its not always correct in how directions are given.
I know you always follow road signs and marking on the roads but with everything being updated for the better surley the Tom Tom can be updated.
Comment by lucyrobinson posted on
The current sat nav used in the driving test will continue to be the TomTom Start 52. The use of this device is being kept under review, and consideration is being given to what a future sat nav may look like to ensure it remains fit for purpose and reflects modern technology.
Comment by Mark posted on
Am I correct in my understanding you are implementing these changes 5 days after announcing them ?
Comment by lucyrobinson posted on
These are very minor adjustments to the driving test, and learners are still required to demonstrate the same core skills they’ve always needed. Because the learning syllabus itself hasn’t changed, there was no requirement for a lengthy notice period or new legislation, the statutory framework already allows for these updates.
Comment by Darren posted on
Does this not require secondary legislation (statutory instrument) first? Or has this already been passed?
Comment by lucyrobinson posted on
These are very minor adjustments to the driving test, and learners are still required to demonstrate the same core skills they’ve always needed. Because the learning syllabus itself hasn’t changed, there was no requirement for a lengthy notice period or new legislation, the statutory framework already allows for these updates.
Comment by Tim Clayton posted on
All excellent adjustments; thank you for keeping the test aligned with changes in the “real world” and advances in vehicle safety.
I still believe candidates should be able to choose to follow satnav OR traffic signs, as some—perhaps mainly older—could have no intention of using a satnav.
My mother, who passed her test aged 70 (and is now 102), doesn’t use a mobile phone or internet. How would she receive her test report without email?
Comment by lucyrobinson posted on
For customers who do not use email or prefer not to receive their test report electronically, the report can still be sent by post on request. This ensures the process remains fair, consistent, and accessible to all learners, regardless of age or digital access.
Comment by Christine Love posted on
I note that the trial took place in England. Why wasn't Scotland included in the trial ? Test centres in Edinburgh, Glasgow and Greenock could have been used. This change especially during a test not having practiced a lot on high speed roads would put me under pressure during my test when already nervous would put me at a disadvantage.
Comment by lucyrobinson posted on
The trial was carried out across Scotland, England and Wales, using a range of test centres. High speed roads present some of the greatest risks to novice drivers, which is why their inclusion in the test is important. Ensuring that learners are assessed on these roads, where possible, helps encourage practice in higher speed, higher-risk environments before the test itself.
This approach is designed to build skills gradually and promote safe, competent driving. While it is natural to feel nervous, the adjustments are intended to reflect real world conditions and help learners develop the confidence and ability needed to manage them safely.
Comment by Ayub Khan posted on
A very welcome change to the present test.
Comment by MISS PHILIPPA C GRAINGER posted on
Hi was wondering if this will now be at all test centres i.e Birmingham
Comment by lucyrobinson posted on
These minor changes will apply to all driving tests from Monday 24 November, across both rural and urban test centres. In some locations there may be little noticeable difference to routes at first, as adjustments will take time and depend on local road and traffic conditions. The aim is to ensure that all learners are assessed consistently, while continuing to focus on safe and competent driving.
Comment by Hannah posted on
I have my test next Tuesday, does this mean the examiner won’t be giving any directions at all?
Comment by lucyrobinson posted on
Independent driving may run for the full test using sat nav or traffic signs. The examiner may give fewer verbal directions, but manoeuvres and other core elements remain unchanged.
Comment by Bubbles posted on
Well done guys! Rob, Amanda and Graham you’ve done well.
Comment by Stuart Walker posted on
How has this affected the average mileage of each test in comparison with the outgoing format? Are the routes longer? This is useful information for driving instructors in planning resources and any cost impact.
Comment by lucyrobinson posted on
Actual mileage can vary by location. Centres with access to higher-speed or rural roads may cover slightly more distance, while urban centres will see little difference due to time and layout constraints. The changes focus on route flexibility, fewer planned stops and more varied driving, rather than increasing distance.
Comment by John Craven posted on
Are the manoeuvres to remain the same?
Comment by lucyrobinson posted on
Yes. There is no change to manoeuvre requirements. Candidates will still complete one reversing or parking manoeuvre, such as a bay park or pulling up on the right and reversing two car lengths.
Comment by Thomas Russell posted on
This clearly will impact learners as it is a change to the syllabus. It is not a small change as advertised.
In essence many learners who have been practising for a number of months will find this new weighting will not match the activities they've practised which I suspect likely myself has been mostly city/town driving and parking. We will now will need to refocus on the new requirements.
"Big bang" new implementations are frowned up in the real world and phased in changes are far better especially as trials do not reveal everything about a change. I'd suggest implementing this in a phased manner depending on when people started learning.
Comment by lucyrobinson posted on
While the test format has slightly changed, the driving syllabus remains the same. Skills like town driving, manoeuvres, and hazard awareness are still required. The trial showed that these subtle changes improve preparation for real-world driving, especially on higher-speed roads where KSI rates are higher.
Comment by Avrumi Loebenstein posted on
what about the test centre in dunston blyth and manchester
Comment by lucyrobinson posted on
These minor changes will apply to all driving tests from Monday 24 November, across both rural and urban test centres. In some locations there may be little noticeable difference to routes at first, as adjustments will take time and depend on local road and traffic conditions. The aim is to ensure that all learners are assessed consistently, while continuing to focus on safe and competent driving.
Comment by Kuburat Fijabi posted on
I believe the adjustments will provide learners more relaxed atmosphere. I want to see how these changes affect me as I'm looking forward to my driving test.
Comment by Kate Farmer posted on
Thank you for all your hard work and thoughtful consideration in bringing about these changes. Safer, more competent drivers is the ultimate aim and this will go a long way to ensuring that happens.
Comment by Mr Philip Morgan posted on
I think this is a positive step as new drivers are at more risk on high speed roads, as sadly, is reflected in the news on a weekly basis. Anything that helps reduce these statistics has to be a good thing. The test cannot assess driver attitude unfortunately.
Comment by Nelma Da Silva posted on
Thanks for the information , this information very helpful
Comment by Reem Abdalla posted on
Thank you for sharing this update. It’s great to hear that the driving test trial has been successful and that the changes will now be implemented permanently. The adjustments sound practical and beneficial, especially as they make the test more reflective of real-world driving conditions. Extending the independent driving section and reducing unnecessary stops should help learners feel more confident and better prepared for everyday driving.
Comment by Emilia posted on
Thanks for the update. I imagine the test routes themselves will also be changing? For those that use driving test route apps for private practice, will these be updated too?
Comment by lucyrobinson posted on
DVSA will update official test routes to reflect the new format. However, DVSA does not support third-party route apps or resources, and would encourage learners to practise on all types of roads to build experience and competence before their test to support a lifetime of safe driving.
Comment by Paul Kerr posted on
'adding flexibility to the independent driving segment (this can be following a sat nav, traffic signs or both) to run for the full duration of the test '
Does this mean the examiner has the flexibility to either do independent driving for the whole test or if they choose to give directions for part of the test, as they currently do?
Comment by lucyrobinson posted on
That’s correct. Independent driving can now run for the full duration of the test, using sat nav, traffic signs, or a combination of both. Examiners have flexibility to include independent driving for the whole test or mix it with directed driving, but they are not required to make the entire test independent for every test.
Comment by Angela Sorensen posted on
I fully support these changes. As instructors we should teach the whole syllabus including driving at night and motorways. It is our job to prepare pupils for driving post test.
Comment by Munira posted on
Will we still need to carry out a manoeuvre for example front bay park or parking on the right and reversing two car lengths?
Comment by lucyrobinson posted on
There is no change to manoeuvre requirements. Candidates will still complete one reversing or parking manoeuvre, such as a bay park or pulling up on the right and reversing two car lengths.
Comment by Jonathan posted on
In venturing into 'more high speed and high risk areas', is it possible that more test routes will avoid town centre driving altogether? I would maintain that town centre driving remains 'high risk area' to many vulnerable road users, such as pedestrians, cyclists, mobility scooters etc, and therefore test candidates should continue to be tested on their hazard awareness skills in these areas, remembering also that they will do much of their driving in town centres.
Comment by lucyrobinson posted on
Town centre driving will remain an important part of the test because it involves interactions with vulnerable road users such as pedestrians, cyclists, and mobility scooter users. Candidates will still be assessed on hazard awareness and safe navigation in these environments. The inclusion of higher-speed or rural roads will only apply where local geography allows, and will not replace urban driving.