Dr Zahid Chauhan OBE has welcomed new Government reforms to the driving test booking system, thanking Ministers for listening to the concerns raised by residents and campaigners regarding long waiting times and unfair booking practices.
The new rules, introduced by the Driver and Vehicle Standards Agency (DVSA), are aimed at tackling the growing problem of automated “bots” and third-party resellers exploiting the system and charging learners inflated prices for test appointments.
The changes, due to be introduced this year, include stronger identity checks, restrictions on changing test appointments and measures designed to stop abuse of the booking system.
The announcement follows sustained concerns raised by residents across Oldham who contacted Dr Chauhan regarding fairness and accessibility within the driving test system.
Many reported waiting several months for test appointments, with some saying they felt pressured into paying inflated fees through third-party services to secure earlier dates. Dr Chauhan subsequently raised these issues directly with Government Ministers on behalf of affected residents.
Welcoming the announcement, Dr Chauhan said “I would like to thank the Government and Ministers for listening to the concerns raised by residents and campaigners regarding the serious problems within the driving test booking system.
“For many young people and working families, learning to drive is essential for accessing employment, education and independence. The long delays and unfair practices being experienced by learners have caused significant frustration and hardship.
“I welcome these reforms and the steps being taken by the DVSA to improve fairness, tackle exploitation by bots and resellers and restore confidence in the system. No learner driver should be priced out or locked out of the system. These reforms are a positive step toward restoring fairness for everyone.”
Dr Chauhan added “While these changes are encouraging, I will continue to monitor the situation closely to ensure they deliver meaningful improvements for learner drivers across Oldham and the wider country. I remain committed to continuing to raise residents’ concerns and working constructively with the Government where further action is needed.”
The Government said the reforms form part of wider efforts to reduce waiting times and improve access to practical driving tests nationwide.
Learner drivers are also encouraged to continue using the official GOV.UK website when booking tests and to avoid unofficial third-party booking services charging excessive fees.
Further information on the new rules can be found here: DVSA Changes to Driving Test Booking Rules in 2026
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