New steps to curb driving test bots
In a move aimed at protecting learner drivers and reducing the long waiting lists for driving tests, the government has announced a plan to tighten controls on third parties who buy and resell driving test slots. The proposed legislation seeks to ensure that only learner drivers can book tests directly, with stricter rules on platforms and intermediaries that currently flood the market with resold slots.
Why this reform is needed
Long wait times for driving tests have been a persistent issue for months, often resulting in frustration and delays for new drivers eager to obtain a licence. Critics have pointed to the practice of test slots being snapped up by resellers and “bots” that use automated tools to secure multiple appointments before selling them at inflated prices. The government argues that this practice drives up costs for learner drivers and exacerbates waiting times, undermining fair access to testing.
- Test slots are scarce, especially in peak periods, prompting bid-like competition among buyers.
- Bots and third-party resellers can hoard slots, leaving genuine learners with fewer options.
- Expiring and irregular slots create a volatile market, harming first-time pass rates and confidence in the system.
What the plan entails
The draft law would introduce tighter verification for individuals booking driving tests, ensuring that only eligible learner drivers can reserve slots. It would also curb third-party platforms that rely on automated tools to accumulate appointments. Key features being considered include:
- Stricter verification of test candidates to prevent non-eligible resale of slots.
- Restrictions or licensing requirements for platforms that resell driving test slots.
- Clear penalties for entities found to be hoarding slots through automated bots or unsanctioned resales.
- Enhanced monitoring of booking activity to detect abnormal patterns and protect genuine learners.
Impact on learner drivers
Officials say the reforms are designed to create a fairer, more transparent process. By limiting third-party resellers and bot-driven bookings, the government hopes to:
- Reduce average waiting times for written and practical driving tests.
- Lower the risk of inflated prices for reservation slots.
- Improve overall satisfaction and confidence in the licensing system for new drivers.
Industry and public reaction
Industry observers have welcomed the move as a necessary step to restore balance to the market for driving test slots. Consumer groups have highlighted the financial burden on learners who already juggle costs associated with lessons, theory tests, and preparation. Opponents caution that any new rules must be implemented with minimal friction to avoid complicating the booking process for eligible learners.
What happens next
Lawmakers will debate the proposal in the coming weeks, with a timeline for implementation depending on parliamentary approval. If passed, the measures could take effect in stages, giving platforms time to adjust and for the system to tighten verification checks without causing immediate disruption to learner drivers.
Keeping learners informed
Officials have urged learner drivers to book tests through official channels and to be wary of third-party schemes that promise easy slots. Guidance will be rolled out to explain the new verification steps and what constitutes a legitimate booking under the updated rules.
