DVSA Driving Test Waiting Times: September 2026 Data Published
DVSA has published September 2026 driving test waiting-time and availability data. Find out what the new figures mean for learners in London and how to plan for test readiness.
DVSA publishes September 2026 driving test waiting-time data
Confirmed update — 14 October 2026: The Driver and Vehicle Standards Agency (DVSA) has updated its official driving test waiting-time and availability datasets with figures for September 2026.
The new release updates DRT121G, covering Great Britain, countries and English regions, and DRT122F, covering individual driving test centres.
This is new official statistical information, not a new booking rule. The publication alone does not show that appointments are becoming easier or harder to obtain: that requires comparing the actual September figures with earlier periods.
Read the official DVSA data on GOV.UK.
What should London learner drivers look for?
National averages do not necessarily describe the situation at a particular London driving test centre. When comparing locations, check the centre-level data, the period covered and the measure used.
DVSA's datasets include measures of waiting time and availability. The waiting-time bands introduced in the September 2026 publication covering August data distinguish tests taken within seven weeks, more than seven to fourteen weeks, more than fourteen to twenty-one weeks, and after more than twenty-one weeks. Those bands were not newly introduced in October.
We have not published an unverified ranking of North London centres or claimed that waiting times have risen or fallen. Centre-specific comparisons should be made only after analysing the published spreadsheet.
HSA Driving commentary: a test date is not a readiness assessment
HSA's professional advice — not a DVSA policy announcement: Finding an earlier appointment can be useful, but learners should decide whether they can demonstrate safe, independent driving consistently before committing to a test date.
A practical readiness review should consider:
- independent decisions at junctions and roundabouts
- timely observations and hazard anticipation
- safe speed and road positioning
- dealing confidently with unfamiliar roads
- consistent performance without repeated instructor prompts
The aim is not merely to secure an appointment. It is to become a safe, competent and independent driver.
Does this update change the rules for booking a test?
No. The 14 October publication is a statistical update. It does not itself announce new eligibility, booking, or test-centre transfer rules. Check current DVSA appointment guidance and the 2026 booking-rule guidance for the rules that apply to your booking.
Frequently asked questions
When was the latest DVSA waiting-time data released?
On 14 October 2026, with data through September 2026.
Does the update prove London driving test waits are falling?
No. That conclusion requires a like-for-like comparison of the underlying data for the relevant centres.
Should I take the first available driving test?
Only if the timing is realistic for your driving development. Discuss your progress with your instructor before deciding.
Prepare for your driving test with HSA
HSA Driving supports learners across North and North-West London with structured driving lessons, coaching and test preparation. Explore driving test preparation, compare local driving test centre guides, see areas we cover, or book driving lessons.