Booking A Course Throughout The Pandemic

Booking a course throughout the pandemic can be a very stressful time. Currently, test waiting times are at an all-time high – and current test waiting times are now March 2021. If you are considering whether to book an intensive driving course please read these guidance notes to help you make the best decision for you.

What problems currently exist?

There is a lack of driving tests throughout the UK. This is not unexpected with the summer season over and with 4 months off from general testing, the UK has gone into a frenzy. Delayed waiting times, shortage of appointments and of course lack of trainers for driving lessons.

Pupils with test dates

The current conditions have seen an increase in untrained learner drivers book a test without even an instructor in place. This panic booking has left the industry short on dates and learners scurrying around trying to find a driving instructor to commence some training.

Pupils without test dates

These pupils have planned their training and have waited to book their test. This may be due to not being in a position to book the practical as they haven’t passed their theory – or simply awaiting the advice of the driving instructor. Alas, these clients have the instructor but no date!

Will the DVSA release more test dates?

The DVSA do reserve dates over the winter months and periodically do release further testing appointments. There are numerous factors to consider: the weather, examiner availability and of course the pandemic that we are all currently facing.

Do cancellation checkers work?

Yes. They can work. However, again with anything, they can only work if someone cancels an appointment. Again – who gets that appointment? If you have lots of people on the system and there is only one appointment who gets preference?

How do intensive driving courses work throughout the pandemic?

Everyone who books an intensive driving course expects to have a test at the end of their training. This is a given. However, not all courses booked need a test date as the pupil may have their own appointment. The most important thing is to become trained. No company can get a cancellation test appointment for a pupil who has not yet had their training. The training is the most important element in the process.

If you book an intensive driving course and have not yet passed your theory – then time is on your side. Training and theory can commence. Once in a position to attempt the practical then a cancellation test can be sought! If you have passed your theory – and need the training, again, we can seek a test appointment to coincide with your intensive driving course.

Will there be a wait for a practical after my course?

There may be. It really does depend on many conditions. Where you are based, what your instructor’s availability is and the waiting times in your area! However, one reassuring factor – only a few weeks ago, theory test appointments were in scarce supply. Now there are plenty of appointments. The system will settle down and return to some kind of normality. If the pupil’s with tests booked can’t find an instructor they won’t be able to sit their driving test appointment. These appointments will become available on the system.

What can I do to help myself after my training?

As ever we always encourage private practice. You should aim to drive privately whilst awaiting for a practical test to come through. If you are fortunate enough to be able to drive with a parent or a loved one – take advantage. With many companies selling insurance products on the market – there are some very cheap deals out there.

Shall I wait to book my course?

This is a very good question. However, the situation is not going to change overnight. The later you leave your training, then, later on, we can find you a test appointment. If you wait to the new year to book an appointment – the waiting times for the courses will increase drastically due to instructor availability – remember, being ready to sit your test is the most important thing! Every learner this year has had to be patient to some degree – but we do advise to still get trained as you will be putting yourself in the best position possible.

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