The Driver and Vehicle Standards Agency (DVSA) has confirmed a 25p per mile expense reimbursement rule for learner drivers whose theory tests are cancelled. The agency has released new information on how drivers can claim expenses if their theory test has been cancelled.
Eligibility for Claims
Under DVSA rules, learners cannot claim if tests are cancelled due to bad weather or if they could not attend the test because they were ill on the day. However, they can claim for travel costs to and from the test centre, lost pay or earnings from taking unpaid leave, or any other reasonable expenses.
Drivers who travelled to and from the test centre using their own vehicle or by getting a lift can claim 25p per mile, the DVSA has confirmed.
Short Notice Cancellation
Under DVSA rules, learners can claim if the motoring body has cancelled their driving test at short notice. The DVSA defines short notice as less than three full working days' notice. Working days are Monday to Saturday but do not include Sundays and bank holidays.
You need to apply within six months of the date of your cancelled test. When it comes to pay, the DVSA will refund up to half a day of your standard take-home pay or earnings. This means the DVSA will not refund the amount you would have paid in income tax and National Insurance.
What Cannot Be Claimed
You cannot claim expenses for the cost of driving lessons before the date of your test. Additionally, you cannot claim for any training course you arranged before your test or extra lessons you decide to take while waiting for your rearranged test. You also cannot claim for overtime or commission payments you lost.
How to Apply
The way you apply depends on what type of test you were taking. You can fill in the online form to apply to claim expenses. You need your driving licence number and your driving test reference number or theory test pass certificate number. You also need a scanned copy or photo of your receipts or evidence.
The payouts come as the Labour Party government continues to try to clear the backlog of tests.
