Driving test waiting times are at an all-time high thanks to an increased demand and a huge backlog. Learners are facing waits of up to half a year for a test date.
And Lilian Greenwood, Minister for the Future of Roads, admitted “no one should have to wait six months when they are ready to be out on the road”.
The Driving and Vehicle Standards Agency (DVSA) has introduced a seven-point plan to combat these waiting times, including the recruitment of 450 driving instructors and new rules for booking tests to make the process easy and efficient. And it is hoped this will reduce waiting times from to seven weeks by December 2025.
Meanwhile, there are thousands of learners waiting to take their test and the test centre you choose could have an impact on you passing first time.
New research by automotive experts Vertu Motors has revealed the best places in Scotland for learners to take their test based on the highest first-time pass rate. And one Argyll spot comes out on top.
Scenic Inveraray has the highest success rate, with 87.2 per cent of learners passing their test at the first arrempt. Arbroath in Angus took second place for first-time pass rates, with 78.6 per cent, while the island of Benbecula followed closely behind at 78.3 per cent.
Rounding out the top five were Duns, Borders, and Ullapool, Highlands, both with a pass rate of 78.1 per cent. For those waiting months for their test, a spokesperson for Vertu Motors has some advice.
They said: “Failing your driving test can be discouraging for learner drivers, and this can be made even worse by the continual long wait times in certain areas between each test. So, it’s no wonder learner drivers are so eager to pass the first time and get themselves on the road.
“And while looking further afield for a different test centre does not guarantee a shorter wait time, nor is it assured to get you your pass certificate faster, it’s useful to know all your options. So be aware of the centres that might have more accessible routes for tests.
“But whether you’re waiting four months or four weeks for your test date, you need to make sure you’re fully prepared. Practising potential test routes, repeating tricky manoeuvres, and working with your instructor to improve your specific weaknesses are all helpful and necessary steps to take to give you the best chances of passing.
“Above all else, however, take your time to ensure you are ready and feel confident to start driving.”