The DVSA has provided a massive update to the ongoing driving test backlog, pledging to increase the number of tests available to learner drivers.
More than 668,000 learners are currently awaiting their practical examinations, marking a 15 per cent rise from 579,138 during the same period in 2024.
The Driver and Vehicle Standards Agency (DVSA) attributes this substantial queue to heightened demand and a trend of candidates securing appointments far in advance.
September saw 168,644 examinations carried out across the country, representing an increase of approximately 20,000 from the previous year's 148,144 tests.
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Roads Minister Simon Lightwood called this surge "fantastic" and praised the DVSA for its actions.
The Government has initiated consultations on reforming the booking system to combat automated programmes that secure multiple appointments for resale at inflated prices on unofficial markets.
September's pass rate dropped to 49.9 per cent, declining from August's 50.7 per cent and marking the lowest figure in half a year.
However, learners across Britain continue to face lengthy delays, with typical waiting periods standing at 21.8 weeks by September's end.
The DVSA has been taking steps to ensure more driving tests are available to learner drivers
|DVSA
The Government's ambition to bring waiting periods down to seven weeks appears distant, with this target unlikely to be achieved before 2026.
The DVSA has implemented several measures to address the backlog, including expanding overtime opportunities for examiners and recruiting more instructors to train new testing staff.
The agency has also increased the availability of examination appointments and nearly doubled its training capacity for new examiners.
Simon Lightwood defended the Government's record, stating: "We promised more tests, and we've delivered. It's fantastic that the DVSA has carried out over 20,000 more tests in September this year.
Many young people are dealing with long delays before they can take their practical tests
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"We inherited a broken system, with learners ready to ditch their L plates but unable to get a test.
"That's why we instructed the DVSA to take further measures this year, and we're now seeing real improvement."
He emphasised ongoing efforts to expand capacity, including training new examiners and incentivising driving examiners to carry out more tests.
The minister pledged continued action, adding: "There's still more to be done and we will make sure the DVSA continues to do all they can to reduce waiting times, breaking down the barriers of opportunity."
Experts are calling on learners to only complete their driving test if they are properly prepared
| PAIndustry experts have expressed cautious optimism whilst highlighting persistent challenges facing learner drivers.
Steve Gooding from the RAC Foundation said: "At last, we're seeing light at the end of the driving test delay tunnel.
"These figures might not be much comfort for those already in the system, but things might be about to become better for those looking to apply for tests."
Rhydian Jones of Confused.com stressed the importance of adequate preparation, noting: "It's important that learners only book a test when they feel confident, to increase their chances of success."