The DVLA announced last week that driving tests will resume after a long three-month break. This will mean learner drivers will be back on the road immediately, although they do still need to have passed their theory test within the last two years to be able to take their test. There will unfortunately be no extensions allowed to your theory test certificate if your test was cancelled due to Covid-19.
“Your theory test certificate will not be extended; this is because your road safety knowledge and hazard perception skills need to be up to date when you restart driving lessons and take your driving test,” the DVSA has advised.
Driving lessons this month began again on Saturday 4th July, alongside theory tests, and driving tests have been now allowed to resume from the 22nd of July.
Grant Shapps, UK Transport Secretary, said:
“Driving lessons and tests are vital in helping people get to work and visit loved ones, and provide the skills for a lifetime of safe driving. As the country recovers from COVID-19 we can now open up our services to help get the country moving again and I am very pleased to announce the restart of driving tests and lessons in a COVID-secure way.”
Gareth Llewellyn, DVSA Chief Executive, said:
“It has been vital that lessons and tests only resume when safe to do so and in line with the government’s advice. We know this has been a tough time for the whole country including learners and driving instructors, but I am pleased to announce the restart of lessons and tests in England.
Tests for critical workers have continued during the lockdown and I would like to thank all those instructors and examiners who have continued to work to help deliver tests for those who have done so much to help us during this terrible pandemic.”
When lessons and tests will restart
When services restart depends on what vehicle you’re learning to drive or ride.
| Service | Date |
| Driving lessons | Saturday 4 July 2020 |
| Theory tests | Saturday 4 July 2020 |
| Driving tests | Wednesday 22 July 2020 |
This is a positive step towards getting the world back to normality amid the COVID-19 outbreak. We’ve seen so many changes to the world this year, and also so many positive stories of how the motor industry has helped during the coronavirus outbreak, but it’s great to see we’re another step closer to getting