Driving Test Delays Leave Newbury Learners Stuck in Neutral
In the past few weeks, I’ve been contacted by many learner drivers and their families in Newbury who are caught in an endless and frustrating cycle — waiting for months, even close to a year, to secure a driving test. This delay is having a huge impact on our community, leaving many without the freedom and opportunities that come with a driving licence.
Imagine being ready to take your test, planning for the independence that driving can bring — whether it’s for work, education, or simply gaining freedom. Now imagine finding out that no test slots are available for months. In Newbury, the current wait is pushing 12 months for many learners.
This issue isn’t new. It’s sadly been building since the pandemic, but recent data shows that the situation has only gotten worse. Nationally, the average waiting time is now over 180 days. For rural areas like ours, where public transport options are limited, having a car is often essential for daily life.
I’ve raised this issue in Parliament, asking the Government about their plans to address these severe delays. Unfortunately, while the situation is critical, the response highlighted that any solutions are still under review, leaving us without a clear plan to reduce waiting times in the near future.
For many, driving isn’t just about convenience. It’s a lifeline. Young people, in particular, are being held back from accessing job opportunities, further education, and the independence that driving offers. With test slots delayed almost a year, these opportunities are being unfairly postponed.
So, what needs to change?
- More Driving Examiners: The DVSA is severely under-resourced, especially in rural areas like Newbury. The Government must invest in the DVSA and hire more examiners to meet demand.
- Localised Solutions and Transparency: Why are the delays so much worse in places like Newbury? We need a targeted approach that directs resources to areas most affected. I’m calling on the Government to assess how it can prioritise rural communities like ours.
- Enhanced Support for Driving Instructors: We should also explore ways to support local driving instructors in expanding their capacity. By facilitating training programmes for new instructors, we can help alleviate the pressure on the testing system and provide more opportunities for learners to prepare for their tests.
Thank you to everyone who has already reached out about this issue. I will continue to push for the urgent changes we need.