What consideration has the Welsh Government given to working with the DVLA to expand the capacity of test centres to undertake more driving tests given the current driving test backlogs in Wales caused by coronavirus restrictions?
My officials are having regular discussions with DVSA. Whilst we appreciate the frustration of those who are affected by paused services, we must also recognise that the fewer points of transmission that occur, the more effective the restrictions will be.
Driving lessons and tests may continue for emergency services only, with the DVSA delivering tests for the ambulance service whilst the fire service and police undertake their own training. However, we encourage all lessons and tests to be postponed unless it is absolutely necessary. The DVSA are not currently offering a critical worker service but are keeping this under review.
The DVSA has emailed all affected candidates to let them know their tests will be rescheduled for the first available date, free of charge. A new time and date will be sent via email as soon as possible once the restrictions have been lifted. If the new time and date isn’t suitable for the candidate they can choose a different time and date on GOV.UK.
I would encourage your constituents to keep updated on current guidance by visiting our website at https://gov.wales/alert-level-4 and the DVSA’s website at https://www.gov.uk/guidance/coronavirus-covid-19-driving-tests-and-theory-tests.