Vocational driver testing

20 July 2021

The DVSA has released a statement on its role to support the government’s efforts in respect of the announced plans to increase lorry driving tests outlined in its open letter to the UK Logistics which can be found here.

Waiting times

Regarding wait times for tests, the DVSA say they recognise the impact of the pandemic on vocational lessons and tests.

Since vocational testing restarted following the easing of restrictions, it has made a total of 3,000 vocational tests available per week compared to 2,000 pre-pandemic by asking all those qualified to conduct vocational tests and offering additional out of hours tests where we can and where there is a demand.

It has also been working to develop measures to maximise testing capacity including planning to help address the lorry driver shortage and meet the demand for lorry tests by prioritising vocational tests, making changes to the booking process to help allocate vocational driving examiners more efficiently and make sure that they are carrying out as many lorry tests as possible

They have also started the process of recruiting 40 new vocational examiners, which will help them reduce vocational waiting times and have updated the guidance which helps candidates get information to better prepare for their vocational test.

What else?

The government is also planning to consult on changes to lorry licences and tests. The DVSA says it we will let operators know how to share your views on these proposals when they have further information.

Please contact the regulatory team on 01254 828300 if you need any advice.