🚗 UK Driving Test Cancelled by DVSA? You May Be Able to Claim Some Costs Back

Written by Derek, Senior Instructor (ADI)

UK Driving Test Cancelled by DVSA? You May Be Able to Claim Some Costs Back

You’ve been preparing for your UK practical driving test for months. You’ve finally got your test date — only to receive a message from the DVSA shortly before your test saying:

“Your driving test has been cancelled.” 😭

It can be extremely frustrating, especially if you’ve already paid for a driving lesson, booked a test car or taken time off work.

According to the latest figures, 101,423 practical driving tests were cancelled in Great Britain during 2025/26.

Of these, 60,092 cancellations — almost 60% — were due to examiner sickness or medical absence.

So, what happens if the DVSA cancels your driving test at short notice?

 ① Your driving test will normally be rearranged

If your practical driving test is cancelled for a reason related to the DVSA, you will normally be offered a new test date.

If the new date is not suitable, you may be able to change it again. However, your new test date will still depend on driving test availability at the time.

② You may be able to claim certain expenses

If the DVSA cancels your driving test at short notice — generally with less than 3 full working days’ notice — you may be able to claim for certain reasonable expenses you have actually incurred.

For example:

🚗 Driving instructor costs
You may be able to claim the cost of up to 2 hours of driving lessons.

🚘 Test vehicle hire
If you have paid to hire a vehicle for your driving test, you may be able to claim up to £76, subject to the relevant evidence and receipts.

⛽ Travel costs if using your own car
You may be able to claim mileage at 25p per mile for the journey to and from the test centre.

💼 Loss of earnings
If you had to take unpaid time off work, you may be able to claim up to half a day’s net pay, provided you meet the relevant conditions.

It’s important to understand that not every cancelled driving test will qualify for an expense claim.

For example, you may not normally be able to claim these costs where the cancellation is related to:

• Severe weather or poor visibility
• Vehicle-related problems
• You being unable to attend the test yourself
• Other circumstances outside the DVSA’s responsibility

So, always check the specific reason for your driving test cancellation before making a claim.

If you receive a last-minute DVSA driving test cancellation, make sure you:

✅ Keep all receipts and supporting documents
✅ Keep a record of your original test date and test centre
✅ Keep the cancellation notification or message from the DVSA
✅ Submit your claim according to the DVSA’s guidance
✅ Make your claim within 6 months of the cancelled test, where applicable

And remember — when your new driving test is eventually arranged, it can be a good idea to speak to your driving instructor before booking or taking the test.

Use the extra time to assess your current test standard, identify any weaknesses and practise the areas that need improvement.

🚗 Your driving test being cancelled is frustrating — but don’t let the extra time go to waste.

A cancelled test can give you another opportunity to improve your driving skills, test readiness and confidence before your next practical driving test.

Need Help With Your Driving Test?

If you’re unsure about what to do after a DVSA driving test cancellation, or you have questions about your next test, feel free to get in touch with GoGo Driving School.

📱 WhatsApp: +44 7586 053 180