Learner drivers are increasingly vulnerable to scams offering fake driving lessons and so-called “fast-track” practical test slots.

The backlog in official test availability appears to be fueling the wave of fraud, according to a report from TSB.

Slotting in

TSB’s analysis of customer data reveals a startling 211% rise in losses linked to driving test and lesson scams between January and August 2025, compared to the same period in 2024.

The average amount lost per victim was £244, though individual cases have seen learners pay several hundred pounds in advance, only to receive nothing in return.

One alarming example involved a learner paying £500 upfront for 20 lessons arranged via a social media advertisement, but the instructor never showed up after the funds cleared.

 Another scheme used a website that appeared to be a DVSA (Driver and Vehicle Standards Agency) booking website: users paid for tests only to be blocked once payment had been made. 

Desperation and fraud

TSB and motoring groups alike point to the long delays in obtaining practical test slots as a key driver behind the rise in scams.

Many learners are desperate to secure a test early, making them susceptible to offers promising faster access.

According to DVSA figures cited by media outlets, four out of every five test centres had waiting times of over 20 weeks — i.e. five to six months — as of May 2025.

Scammers are heavily utilising social media to carry out their schemes: TSB reports that almost all fraudulent offers originate from platforms such as Facebook, Instagram, Snapchat, TikTok, or WhatsApp.

In fact, Facebook alone accounted for 56% of losses tied to these scams.

A lot to lose

Alex Robinson, TSB’s Head of Fraud Analytics, cautioned that many of the scams begin with social media posts for non-existent services.

He urged learners and their families to always verify services before paying and to stick to official booking channels.

A DVSA spokesperson acknowledged the trend, saying the agency is investigating instances of test fraud, and emphasised that GOV.UK is the only legitimate test booking route.

The agency said it will vigorously pursue takedowns of fraudulent accounts and mechanisms. 

Meanwhile, motoring organisations have flagged the growing threat.

The RAC notes that the backlog is providing fertile ground for third-party “brokers” and bots to hijack testing slots — reselling them at inflated prices or exploiting learner desperation.

Beyond financial loss, some victims report that scammers gained access to their personal data (including provisional licence numbers), raising concerns about identity theft, misuse of personal information, and even fraudulent bookings using learners’ details. 

For many learners, the scams exacerbate already steep costs and delays.

Prolonged waiting, along with repeated lessons, increases the emotional stress and financial burden on young people trying to get on the road.

Keep it official

TSB’s guidance to prospective drivers includes:

  • Always book tests via the official DVSA (GOV.UK) service

  • Be extremely wary of social media offers promising fast tracks or discounts

  • Check authenticity (e.g. verify instructor credentials, ask for references) before paying

  • Use traceable payment methods (cards or services that offer recourse)

  • Report any suspected scam to your bank, Action Fraud (or equivalent), and the DVSA