Go Fish! Will waiting lists soar as ADIs are removed from helping their learners?

Is the driving instructor game of ‘Go Fish’ ending, or just changing?

Driving Instructors removed from the booking process, learners are now on their own

“Have you got any Julys?”
“Go fish.”

For years, that joke has landed because it felt true. In a stretched and often frustrating driving test system, many ADIs have become part planner, part organiser, part problem-solver.… Read full article

by Chris Bensted, March 28, 2026
Section:  News

DVSA Driving Test Booking Changes (2026)

What It Means for Learners and Instructors

The DVSA has announced a series of changes to the driving test booking system, rolling out between March and June 2026.

The aim is clear: reduce exploitation of the system and give learners more direct control over their bookings. But like most system changes, the reality is a bit more nuanced. This isn’t just a learner change. It’s a relationship change between learner, instructor, and the booking system.

Let’s break it down.


The Timeline

31 March 2026
The number of changes allowed to a booking drops from 6 to 2. Instructors can still book, change and swap tests.

12 May 2026
Only the learner can book, change or manage their test. The Instructor OBS booking close, but instructors can still manage their personal availability.… Read full article

by Chris Bensted, March 17, 2026
Section:  News

Supporting Jonny’s Miles for Smiles Challenge

In 2026 Jonny Greaves, JG Drive Driver Training based in Nuneaton, is taking on a personal challenge to run 204 miles through organised running events to raise funds for Speed Of Sight.

Speed Of Sight is a UK charity that gives adults and children with disabilities the chance to drive specially adapted cars on real race tracks.… Read full article

by Chris Bensted, December 15, 2025
Section:  News, Events

Driving Test Changes Announced: What the Transport Select Committee Revealed Today

By Chris Bensted & Ian Brett, The DITC

Today’s Transport Select Committee update has confirmed what many of us in the driver training industry have feared – the DVSA will not be meeting its targets for reducing test waiting times any time soon.… Read full article

by Chris Bensted, November 12, 2025
Section:  News

Loveday Ryder steps down as DVSA CEO

Today’s announcement marks the end of an era for the DVSA. Loveday Ryder has stepped down as Chief Executive after five years in post, leading the agency through what was arguably the toughest period in its history.

Whatever your personal view of DVSA or its leadership, there’s no denying the size of the task she took on.… Read full article

by Chris Bensted, November 11, 2025
Section:  News

Be Honest. Be Heard. Be Seen.

The DVSA have opened their annual “Working as an ADI” survey. I know what you’re probably thinking – what’s the point? They don’t listen anyway.

And you wouldn’t be alone. Every year, thousands of ADIs roll their eyes, delete the email, and carry on with the day.… Read full article

by Chris Bensted, October 4, 2025
Section:  News

A New Test Booking System – Progress or Problem?

The DVSA have just announced another step in the long journey to replace the current driving test booking system. The contract has been awarded to Kainos, and work is starting on the new Driver Services Platform (DSP).

In plain English?… Read full article

by Chris Bensted, September 1, 2025
Section:  News

“Why Stop at 70? Instructors Call for Sight Checks for All UK Drivers”

The Government’s plan to introduce eyesight checks for drivers over 70 is welcome – but it doesn’t go far enough. Driving instructors and road safety advocates are calling for the rule to apply to all drivers, at every photocard renewal, to ensure everyone on UK roads meets the legal eyesight standard.… Read full article

by Chris Bensted, August 11, 2025
Section:  News

DVSA Release Annual Report & Accounts 24-25

The DVSA have published their Annual Report and Accounts – You can read it for yourself here.

In Summary: The DVSA’s views on 2024‑25, portray a year of consolidation and delivery. They highlight continued emphasis on road safety and customer service, particularly through efforts to reduce car test waiting times and improve test pass rates by better preparing learners.… Read full article

by Chris Bensted, July 21, 2025
Section:  News

Five Years Since Lockdown: Where Are We Now?

It’s hard to believe, but it’s been five years since driving instructors were officially allowed back to work after COVID-19 shut the world down. July 2021 saw engines start again, windows cracked open, masks stashed in gloveboxes and ADIs returning to the front seats of their cars, often with more questions than answers.… Read full article

by Chris Bensted, July 18, 2025
Section:  News