Plans to ramp up driving tests as Doncaster girl, 18, lifts lid on tests nightmare

Her first driving lesson was the same month, December 2019, and she got her own car a month later.

Then the pandemic hit. Three cancelled driving tests later, and another set to be cancelled this month, the 18-year-old from Blaxton, is fed up and feels unsupported.

The New College Doncaster student said: “I have had many driving lessons a week. I needed to pass my test fast in order to get to college and my part time job.”

She said she was ready to take her test in March 2020.

That was stopped by the first lockdown. Tests restarted in August. She waited nine hours online to book a test in October – which got cancelled.

She queued again for a December 2 test – which was cancelled due to the second lockdown.

She managed to get a slot, due cancellation, for January 6 this year – again cancelled, by lockdown three.

She booked a test for February 15 – but the current lockdown will not even be reviewed until that date

Lauren said: “This is a pandemic and in the grand scheme of things driving tests are not important. However this has prevented me being able to get myself to college and my job.” She did not feel there had been support from the DVSA.

“They just ask you to wait another amount of months for a test, which I know probably will never happen. I understand there are many people who are in the same position as me and have not been given any support,” she said.

A DVSA spokesperson said: “As soon as it is safe to resume testing, DVSA has plans to increase the number of driving tests available through extended operating hours and prioritising practical driving tests. A recruitment campaign is also underway to increase the number of driving examiners.

“Candidates affected by the suspension in testing are automatically being booked onto the next available test at their chosen centre.

“DVSA is committed to providing as many driving tests as possible while preventing the spread of COVID to its staff and the public.”

In these confusing and worrying times, local journalism is more vital than ever. Thanks to everyone who helps us ask the questions that matter by taking out a subscription or buying a paper. We stand together. Nancy Fielder, editor.