The rules for booking and managing car driving tests will change from spring 2026. Find out what the changes are and how they affect you.
| Rule | Current rules | New rules | From when |
|---|---|---|---|
| Number of changes allowed | Up to 6 changes | Only 2 changes | Since 31 March 2026 |
| Who can book your test | You or your driving instructor | Only you | From 12 May 2026 |
| Who can manage your test | You or your driving instructor | Only you | From 12 May 2026 |
| Where you can move your test | Any test centre | Only to the 3 nearest test centres | From 9 June 2026 |
Booking your car driving test
From 12 May 2026, you will need to book your car driving test yourself on GOV.UK. Your driving instructor will not be allowed to book it for you.
Before you book your test
Before you book, speak to your driving instructor to:
- agree that you’re ready to take the test
- ask them for their driving instructor reference number – you can enter this when you book to make sure your instructor is available
Booking your test
When you book your test, you should:
- only book at a test centre you intend to use – you will only be able to move your test to nearby centres
- choose a date you realistically expect to be ready by – you will only be allowed to make 2 changes to your appointment
- use your driving instructor’s reference number
From 12 May 2026, you will have to confirm that you:
- are the learner who will be taking the test
- agree to a new set of terms and conditions
From 12 May 2026, it will be against the law to book or change a driving test for someone else.