The Driver and Vehicle Standards Agency (DVSA) has confirmed that a new rule for booking and managing driving tests will come into effect from Tuesday, 10 June. This represents the final stage of a series of changes aimed at improving the system for thousands of learners across the UK.
Earlier Changes This Year
Two modifications were introduced earlier in 2026. First, a cap was placed on date changes, allowing only two changes per test. Second, only the learner themselves can now book, change, or cancel a car driving test. This means unofficial services that searched for test slots are no longer permitted.
The Final Change: Test Centre Relocation Limits
The new rule focuses on where a driving test can be moved. Previously, learners could rebook a test at any centre in the UK. From Tuesday, it will only be possible to move a booked test to one of the three nearest test centres to the original booking location.
Purpose of the New Rules
The DVSA introduced these measures to prevent drivers from booking tests at quieter centres and then switching to a nearer one when a sooner date becomes available. Additionally, the rules aim to stop third-party resellers from harvesting slots and selling them at inflated prices.
Public Response and Data
Search data analysed by Vertu reveals increased interest in the new regulations. Searches for 'driving test new rules' have risen by 19%, and 'how to change driving test centre' has increased by 27% over the past three months.
Expert Comment
Matt Salisbury, Senior PR Lead at Vertu, explained: "The June rule is the final step in a broader plan. Earlier changes already stopped bots and third parties from booking on a learner's behalf. This one targets individuals who might book a distant centre and then pull the test closer once a slot is secured. From Tuesday, that route is effectively closed."
Advice for Learners
Salisbury added: "Learner drivers who need to consider this particularly are anyone moving in the next few months—students starting university, learners relocating for work, or those moving in with a partner. The three-centre limit is calculated from where your test is currently booked, not where you live. If you book before you move, your new local centre may not be one of the three you can switch to."
He advised: "If a move is on the cards, it is usually better to wait until you are settled before booking. If you have already booked and a move is now confirmed, check whether your nearest new centre falls within the three closest to your existing booking before you assume you can switch."
Impact on Most Learners
For most learners booking sensibly in their own area, the day-to-day impact is minimal. You can still book at any test centre initially. The restriction only applies if you later try to move the test to a much further location. The key to passing remains preparation: practising on a wide variety of roads, making observations obvious to the examiner, and managing nerves on the day.
