DVSA rule changes could lead to more candidates using private vehicles for driving tests, according to a major insurer.

Concerns over the potential consequences of changes to test booking include the lack of dual controls in potential emergencies and queries about applicable insurance cover for tests.

Uncertain times

Motor insurer Ageas has warned that recent changes to driving test booking rules by the Driver and Vehicle Standards Agency (DVSA) could lead to more learners taking their practical tests in private cars rather than dual-controlled driving school vehicles.

The insurer says the reforms, designed to tackle long waiting times and reduce test backlogs, may unintentionally encourage candidates to bypass traditional driving school arrangements in favour of using family cars to secure earlier test slots.

Under the updated system, learners now have greater flexibility to change and manage bookings online, while new measures aim to deter bulk booking and reselling of test appointments.

However, Ageas believes that as candidates scramble to find suitable test dates, more may opt to rely on vehicles available at home rather than coordinate availability with instructors.

“Driving instructors operate on tight schedules, particularly given the ongoing pressure on test capacity,” an Ageas spokesperson said. “If learners find an earlier slot that doesn’t align with their instructor’s availability, they may decide to take the test in a private vehicle rather than wait months for another opportunity.”

In control

Unlike driving school cars, which are fitted with dual controls allowing instructors to intervene if necessary, private cars used for tests do not require additional pedals.

While this is permitted under DVSA rules, provided the car meets safety and roadworthiness standards, Ageas has raised concerns about the potential risks.

The insurer says private vehicles may lack features common in modern training cars, such as additional mirrors for the examiner or clear L-plate visibility.

There is also concern that learners accustomed to practising in an instructor’s vehicle may feel less confident switching to a different car on the day of the test.

This, in turn, could lead to more nerves, potentially higher stress-induced crash risk, and more test failures, in turn resulting in even longer test waiting times due to the increasing number of retests.

In the queue

Industry representatives have previously highlighted how extended waiting times, which in some areas stretch to several months, have disrupted the traditional learning-to-test pathway.

The DVSA has introduced measures to improve test availability, including recruiting additional examiners and adjusting booking rules to prevent misuse of the system.

However, Ageas argues that behavioural shifts among learners could have insurance implications.

Family members supervising practice sessions must ensure appropriate learner driver cover is in place, either through a dedicated short-term policy or as an extension to an existing motor insurance plan.

Failure to arrange suitable cover could invalidate insurance and expose drivers to legal penalties.

The correct insurance cover for the driving test itself is essential.

The insurer also points out that private cars used for tests must meet specific DVSA requirements, including having no warning lights illuminated, being taxed and insured, and fitted with an additional interior rear-view mirror for the examiner.

The road ahead

Driving instructors have expressed mixed views.

Some believe learners will still prefer the familiarity and safety of dual-controlled vehicles, particularly for the high-pressure environment of a practical test.

Others acknowledge that frustration with delays may prompt some candidates to consider more flexible arrangements.

A DVSA spokesperson said the agency’s priority remains reducing waiting times and ensuring fair access to tests.

“We continue to work with the driver training industry and insurers to support learner drivers through the process safely,” the spokesperson said.

As the reforms bed in, insurers and instructors alike will be watching closely to see whether the proportion of candidates opting for private vehicles increases, and what that could mean for road safety and learner preparedness.