Desperate learners eager to take their driving tests are falling victim to a scheme where automated programs, known as bots, are monopolizing test slots, according to a warning issued by Members of Parliament (MPs).
A group of 38 MPs penned a letter to the Local Transport Minister Simon Lightwood expressing worries about scammers purchasing driving test slots from the DVSA’s official portal to resell them at a profit.
DVSA releases test slots every Monday at 6am, but a substantial number are quickly taken up, with young learners being coerced into paying substantial “arrangement fees” to expedite the process.
This situation has led to learners struggling to secure a test slot, resulting in some paying exorbitant amounts, up to £500, whereas the standard cost for a weekday test is £62.
The exploitation involves manipulating test dates, a practice that surged during the Covid era and is now being abused. Recent data indicates that the swapping of test slots increased from 2.7% in January 2019 to a peak of 34.1% in October 2023. Presently, approximately one in four tests undergoes at least one swap, with 29,000 tests being swapped ten times or more.
Labour MP Amanda Hack orchestrated the letter and urged government officials to take decisive action to curb the inflated test prices.
In a statement to the Sunday Mirror, the North West Leicestershire MP stated, “Learner drivers, including many in my constituency, are being exploited into paying hundreds of pounds for tests that should cost £62.”
She added, “The sharp rise in prices seems to be linked to the surge in test swapping since the Covid pandemic. While genuine reasons may prompt learners to change their test dates, the system’s unlimited swaps have been abused by bots and third parties, unfairly taking advantage of hardworking individuals seeking an opportunity to take their tests.”
The Department for Transport spokesperson assured that measures were being implemented to combat these fraudulent activities.
The spokesperson explained, “We inherited a frustrating system that left many learners in limbo, waiting for a test. We have directed DVSA to implement further measures this year, and we are starting to see early signs of improvement.”
“We pledged more tests, and progress is evident. By incentivizing examiners and expanding trainer numbers, we are unlocking more test opportunities. However, there is more work to be done to reduce waiting times and enhance accessibility as part of our Plan for Change.”
