Update on Driving Test Availability
A Departmental spokesperson said: “The DVA booking service opened for all customers on 10 May 2021, providing everyone with a valid theory test pass certificate with equal opportunity to book a driving test.”
“The DVA has, and continues, to work hard to increase its capacity to help meet the high demand for driving tests for all customers. In June 2021, the DVA conducted 6,619 driving tests which is 57% higher than the five year June average.”
“The DVA has taken a range of measures to maximise the availability of test slots, including the recruitment of additional examiners and the opening of new temporary test centres at Cookstown and Omagh. The DVA will continue to offer driving tests on a Saturday and at certain centres on Sundays where it is suitable to do so without compromising the integrity of the test. Overtime will also be used to rota off-shift dual role driving examiners to provide further capacity. The DVA is now releasing Category B (private car) driving test appointments five months in advance with all test centres set to release driving test appointments on the first working day of each month. Additional test slots will also be released as resources continue to become available.”
“Due to the constantly changing position, DVA’s advice to customers is to keep checking the booking system for availability as additional appointment slots are added when resources become available. If slots are not initially available at a customer’s preferred test centre, they may wish to consider booking a test at another centre.”
“The Department acknowledges that learner drivers are keen to take their driving tests at the earliest opportunity and remains committed to minimising disruption and ensuring its plans for the restoration of services are in hand. However, all driving test services across these islands are experiencing high demand with longer than usual waiting times and customers are asked for their continued patience.”
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