How to book a driving test - what time do new slots become available?
DRIVING tests have returned amid the coronavirus pandemic this year and have become more vital than ever, as people country returns to work, with people eager to avoid public transport. How do you book a driving test, and what time do new slots become available?
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Driving has taken new significance in the coronavirus stricken world, with cases on the rise once more. As the Government encourages people to return to work and school, they need a form of transport which is reliable and comes with little risk. Those still learning can now have lessons again, but they can only take tests depending on availability.
How do you book a driving test?
The Driver and Vehicle Standards Agency (DVSA) administers theory and practical driving tests in the UK.
The Government department also provides licenses and MOT tests, among a slew of other certifications.
Drivers can book a test online via the DVSA online system on Gov.uk.
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To book, they will need their driving license number, and a credit or debit card to pay a £62 fee.
Applicants also need a theory test pass certificate and their driving instructor's personal reference number.
However, they may have to wait a while due to lengthy queues as tests start up again.
Thousands of people snapped up appointments last week, but the DVSA released more today.
What time do new slots become available?
The DVSA is currently releasing appointments up to six weeks in advance but has had to change tack and respond to demand.
The department released a block of appointments at 8am this morning.
They will have to tide people over for three months, covering October to the end of January next year.
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People living in England, Scotland and Wales can take advantage of these latest appointments.
The DVSA has launched a tracker to help people find a test with the latest fixture release.
The service helps them locate a test centre and check overall availability.
While it updates every 30 minutes, places will go quickly.
The DVSA uses the following descriptors for available places:
Appointments available: Appointments available within the next six weeks
Limited availability: Between 90 percent and 95 percent of all appointments within the next six weeks booked
Very limited availability: Over 95 percent of all appointments within the next six weeks booked
No availability: No appointments available