The plan was announced by the Driver and Vehicle Standards Agency (DVSA) and comes after widespread criticism of the current system, which has seen some learners waiting up to six months for a test.
The DVSA in a press release said that the new measures will help to get more new drivers on the road and stop learner drivers from being ripped off by unscrupulous websites.
Lilian Greenwood, Minister for the Future of Roads, said, “Passing your driving test is a life-changing opportunity for millions — but sky-high waiting times for tests in recent years have denied that opportunity to too many people.
“No one should have to wait six months when they’re ready to pass, travel to the other side of the country to take a driving test or be ripped off by unscrupulous websites just because they can’t afford to wait.”
The first phase of the recruitment drive for 450 new driving examiners took place in June and July 2024, with the second phase running in September and October. The DVSA says that training is now underway for the successful candidates, who will begin conducting driving tests over the coming months.
In addition to the recruitment drive, the DVSA will also be reviewing and improving the driving test booking system.
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