The Driver and Vehicle Standards Agency (DVSA) continually reviews the driving test to ensure it reflects real-world driving. As we move through 2026, learners and instructors alike should be aware of the latest updates, consultation outcomes, and operational changes that affect how the test is booked, conducted, and passed.
Sat-Nav Changes on the Independent Driving Section
The independent driving portion of the practical test — currently 20 minutes — uses a pre-set sat-nav route. The DVSA has indicated it is reviewing the make and model of sat-nav used during tests to better reflect the devices learners actually drive with day-to-day. No change to the duration is expected, but the interface learners see on test day may look different from the unit your instructor uses. Make sure you practise following a sat-nav you're not familiar with, not just the one fitted to your instructor's car.
Examiner Recruitment and Waiting Times
A long-running DVSA focus has been reducing driving test waiting times. The agency has continued to recruit and train new examiners throughout 2025 and into 2026, with a particular push in high-demand areas. The result is that waiting times in many parts of the country are shorter than they were 18 months ago — though hotspots remain. If your local test centre still shows long waits, ask your instructor about earlier cancellations or check neighbouring test centres.
Theory Test: No Changes, But Keep Practising
The theory test (multiple-choice and hazard perception) remains unchanged in format. The DVSA's emphasis is still on genuine understanding rather than memorisation. The pass mark for the multiple-choice part is 43 out of 50, and 44 out of 75 for hazard perception. Use only official DVSA learning materials and the official hazard perception clips — third-party apps can be useful for practice but may not accurately mirror the real clips.
Eyesight and "Show Me, Tell Me"
The eyesight check at the start of the test (reading a number plate from 20 metres, or 20.5 metres for older-style plates) remains unchanged. The "tell me" question is asked at the start before you drive, and the "show me" question is asked on the move. Failing the eyesight check ends the test immediately, so if you wear glasses, always bring them.
What This Means for Learners
The headline is that the structure of the test is stable. The most important things haven't changed: you need a safe, controlled drive with no serious or dangerous faults, and no more than 15 minor faults. The best preparation is still plenty of varied practice with a qualified instructor, including mock tests under test conditions.
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