Learner Drivers Could Face Longer Wait Between Theory and Practical Tests
Learner drivers in England and Wales could soon be required to wait several months between passing their theory test and taking their practical driving exam, under new government plans designed to improve road safety.
The proposals form part of a wider road safety strategy announced by the government, which aims to significantly reduce the number of people killed or seriously injured on UK roads over the next decade.
Minimum Learning Period for Learner Drivers
One of the key proposals being considered is the introduction of a mandatory learning period of either three or six months between the theory test and the practical driving test. This change would be subject to a public consultation led by the Department for Transport.
According to the government, extending the learning period would allow learner drivers more time to build experience, confidence, and awareness — including driving in different weather conditions, at night, and on faster roads. Both professional driving lessons and informal practice with parents or guardians would count towards this learning time.
Why the Government Wants to Change Driving Laws
Official figures show that young drivers remain over-represented in serious road collisions. In 2024, around 20% of all fatal or serious crashes involved a young car driver. The majority of driving tests in the UK are taken by under-25s, with more than half completed by drivers aged 17 to 24.
The government hopes the proposed changes will help reduce road deaths and serious injuries by 65% overall within ten years, and by 70% for children under 16.
Little Immediate Impact Due to Test Backlog
While the proposals may sound significant, many learner drivers are already experiencing long waits for practical tests. Current waiting times are often close to six months, and the driving test backlog is expected to continue until at least late 2027.
Beat the Driving Test Changes – Book Your Intensive Course Now
With proposed changes set to extend the waiting period between theory and practical driving tests, learner drivers who act now could avoid long future delays. If you’ve already passed your theory test, this is the ideal time to secure your practical test by booking an intensive driving course with Driving Test Today. We offer intensive driving courses for all experience levels, helping you fast-track your licence before any new DVSA rules come into force. Should these plans be implemented, waiting times could stretch well beyond six months — making early action more important than ever. Join thousands of successful learners who have passed in Blackpool with our trusted driving school. We provide both manual and automatic driving courses, with optional hotel packages available, making it easier than ever to get on the road quickly and confidently.
