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Learner drivers are facing a significant rule shake-up next month. The DVSA has revealed that candidates will be restricted to just two alterations to their initial test reservation once it's booked.

These modifications have been introduced to tackle issues with automated systems bulk-booking fresh appointments for illegal resale at extortionate rates.

A DVSA statement this week confirmed: "From March 31, 2026, you will only be allowed to make 2 changes to your car driving test appointment after you've booked it. This change is part of the outcome of our consultation to improve the way driving tests are booked and help stop learners being exploited."

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Starting at the end of March, the regulations mean that altering the date or time, switching the test centre, or exchanging your slot with another learner driver who has already secured a booking will each be counted as one modification.

Matt Crole-Rees, motoring specialist at Confused.com, has urged learners to stay aware of these alterations: "New rules are coming in from March 31 that limit how often learner drivers can change their test and where they can move it to. This is another big shift for learners trying to get on the roads. Allowing only two changes and learners only being able to move their original test booking within the local area could make things even harder for learners who live in areas with historically low pass rates.

"Our research shows that since 2021, around six million driving tests have been taken. And only about half resulted in a pass. Pass rates can also vary hugely between test centres, ranging from around 33% to as high as 80%. For learners in lower-performing areas, having less flexibility to move their test after waiting so long could mean more retakes, more waiting and higher overall costs.

"With these changes in mind, it's more important than ever for learners to think before they book their test. Plan carefully, only take the test when really prepared and understand how local test centres perform before booking in. Our driving test pass rate calculator helps learners compare nearby centres so they can make an informed decision before booking their test for the first time."