This is a the biggest change of the three changes happening to the UK Practical driving test in 2026.
From Monday 12th May, only the learner driver (aka the test candidate) will be allowed to book their driving test. This includes making any changes once booked.
At the moment, you may ask someone else, including your instructor, to book the practical test for you. With your permission, the third party is currently allowed to make changes to either the test day/time, or location.
This will become illegal from Monday 12th, as only the candidate will be allowed to make changes.
The reason for this is an attempt by the DVSA to get on top of the abuse of the test booking system, mainly by third party apps using bots to scan and scoop up tests, but also but some unscrupulous driving instructors in parts of the country buying them and selling them for profit.
For most people, this is unlikely to be any different from how it is now. Most instructors get their students to make their own booking.
They may provide you with an instructor reference number. When input into the booking system, this will prevent any double bookings. This part of the booking system will still remain. Ask your instructor for their reference number before booking a test, you should have confidence they can do the date.
If you have any issues or questions about what the changes are, or how they will work or affect you, please drop us a comment on this post or a DM on social media or email