Young Drivers and the backlog of driving tests!

Sophie Cloud
On June 2, 2021
https://www.safelyinsured.co.uk

Young Drivers in the UK are facing huge backlogs in respect of booking their practical driving tests, due to the Coronavirus pandemic. Practical Driving Tests resumed across the country on 22nd April 2021 but The Driver and Vehicle Standards Agency (DVSA) has warned there are already at least 420,000 practical driving tests booked into the system. What does this mean? Unfortunately, this means large wait times from passing your theory test to taking your practical driving test examination. The average wait time is said to be around 17 weeks with some regions having longer wait times than others. The DVSA are putting measures in place to deal with the increased demand. Take a look at their website for more information.

In this article, we’ll look at the reasons for the backlog. We’ll also look at ways you can pass the time leading up to your practical driving test.

The Backlog: Practical Driving Tests

If you’re a young driver and have recently passed your theory test, you may be frustrated to find out that you cannot book your practical driving test anytime soon. Do not worry, you are not alone. Young Drivers up and down the UK are experiencing the same thing with some regions seeing longer wait times than others. This is a knock-on effect of the Coronavirus pandemic. Let’s take a look at a few of the reasons why:

Many tests had to be cancelled
Driving instructor shortages
Driving centre staff shortages
Driving test delays due to restrictions
Examiners / instructors / learners having to self-isolate

It’s worth noting too, that many driving test centre waiting rooms are closed. If you are booked in for your test, you may want to check with your test site regarding what the protocol is for waiting to be called for your examination.

Young Drivers and Safely Insured

Are you wanting to pass the time leading up until your practical driving test? Be sure to get in more practise so you are ready for the big day. Also, have you considered what insurer you will be using once you have passed your test? Do you have insurance already? At Safely Insured, our Black Box Insurance Policy ensures you are covered from learning to passing your test and beyond.

Our policy offers:

Premiums based on the mileage you require
Safe Driving Rewards / Discounts
Quick Black Box Fitting (there’s no extra cost for your fitting)
24hr Claims Line

A Black Box policy is designed to help new / young drivers save money whilst monitoring driving to help you get off to both a safe and cost efficient start on the roads.

For more information, visit our Black Box Insurance webapge.