Driving Test Backlog: Instructor Shortage Hits Learners
A shortage of driving instructors is significantly contributing to the growing backlog of learner drivers waiting to sit their practical test. According to the BBC, three-quarters of the 319 driving test centres across Great Britain have reached the maximum average waiting time of 24 weeks to book a practical test.
The UK’s driving test backlog has been building since the Covid pandemic, and instructors say that delays in booking their own exams, "astronomical" costs, and a "convoluted" testing process are deterring people from the industry. Elwyn Marfell-Jones, principal instructor of Auto Learners driving school in Swansea, told the BBC, "There are just not enough examiners to go around. Many are being pulled across to help clear the backlog of driver tests, but that is having a knock-on effect for teaching new instructors and examiners."
The number of registered approved driving instructors (ADIs) has seen a 10% fall over the past decade, while the number of new registrations for 2024-25 (1,553) was half that of the previous year, according to Department of Transport figures. Trainee instructors have two years from the date of sitting the first of four tests to qualify, but often have to wait months for an exam date, leaving many struggling to complete the course in the required timeframe.
Mr. Marfell-Jones is currently teaching four trainee instructors but fears that not all will complete the course. He said, "One instructor had her test cancelled on the morning of the test and had to wait four months for a new date. The stress and expense of getting through the training in an ever-diminishing window could well prove too much for her." He also expressed concerns about the high cost of training, stating, "The expense can now be astronomical with the cost of tests and paying £50 an hour for at least 40 hours training."
There are also concerns that instructors are unable to undergo a standards check every four years, sometimes waiting up to twice that long. The DVSA has come under pressure to address the issue, with Transport Secretary Heidi Alexander instructing the agency to intensify efforts to reduce waiting times and improve access to driving tests. The DVSA plans to double examiner training capacity by summer 2026 to ensure newly recruited driving examiners can qualify "as quickly as possible."
However, not everyone is convinced that the plans will be effective. Lynne Barrie, president of the Approved Driving Instructors National Joint Council, is sceptical, stating, "The seven-point plan, which they started to introduce in December 2024, just is not working. Some 25% of it was about consultations, but that’s not action, and whilst we are getting new examiners in, there are a large number leaving the profession as well." She also highlighted the issue of people selling test slots for fraudulent amounts of money, saying, "We can have as many driving examiners and tests as we like, but until we stop people selling on test slots for fraudulent amounts of money, then the situation will remain challenging."
The BBC has reported that the UK government’s department of transport is aiming to address the issue, but instructors fear that the system is at risk of "grinding to a halt." As the backlog continues to grow, learner drivers are facing increasing frustration and delay in obtaining a driving license.
According to the Department of Transport, the shortage of instructors and the resulting backlog are a major concern. A spokesperson for the department told the BBC, "We are working to address the issue and are committed to reducing waiting times and improving access to driving tests." However, with the current shortage of instructors and the growing backlog, it remains to be seen how effective the department’s efforts will be in resolving the issue.
The driving test backlog is a complex issue that requires a multifaceted solution. As the BBC continues to report on the issue, it is clear that the shortage of instructors and the resulting backlog are having a significant impact on learner drivers. With the DVSA’s plans to double examiner training capacity and the department’s efforts to address the issue, it is hoped that the backlog will begin to decrease and learner drivers will be able to obtain a driving license in a more timely manner.
The BBC will continue to provide updates on the driving test backlog and the efforts being made to address the issue.
