Driving test swap guide

Will Dracott • 6 May 2026

DVSA posts driving test swap guidance for learners

The DVSA seem to have U-turned on their decision regarding swapping tests.  This post will help explain what the new, new changes are for leaners wishing to switch tests.


They have published guidance for instructor's pupils about how tests can be swapped from 12 May.

The guidance provides further detail on how test swaps will work when the change to learner-only booking comes into force.


You can read the full guidance on swapping tests on GOV.UK.

What's changing on May 12th?

From the 12th of May, anyone looking to swap their driving test can do so, but only through the DVSA customer service centre. 


DVSA driving test enquiries and booking support
Twitter or Facebook
customerservices@dvsa.gov.uk
Telephone: 0300 200 1122
WhatsApp (message only, no calls): +44 (0)1908 787001
Webchat
Monday to Friday, 8am to 5pm


There are currently test switch apps, so what will happen to them in the coming weeks is very interesting, especially the ones that claim that they are allowed to continue operating in accordance with DVSA rules.  Swappy being a new one that spring s to mind.  Seems dodgy avoid it.

Leaners' data protection


The DVSA says

"To protect your pupil’s personal data, the guidance makes it clear that they:

only need to share their driving test booking reference number with the other learner driver they want to swap tests with.

should never give their driving licence number, theory test pass certificate number, address, phone number, email address or payment card details to another learner driver."


So don't give anyone and learner related info if you're looking to switch tests.  Which I image will still be happening in the coming weeks whilst scammers find a work around.

Final Q&A webinar


The DVSA are running a follow-up Q&A session on the driving test booking rules this evening, Thursday 7 May at 6pm.

You’ll have an opportunity to ask DVSA representatives your questions. You can type your questions during the session and we’ll answer as many as they can.


Click here to join the webinar to take part.


blog post about booing a driving test
by Will Dracott 15 March 2026
Blog post about the many changes that are coming from late spring 2026 for leaner drivers who are looking to book a practical car driving test in the uk
2025
by Will Dracott 2 February 2026
Recap of what happened at a-class driving school in 2025
news update blog on the DVSA
by Will Dracott 24 December 2025
DVSA autumn 2025 news update from a driving instructors perspective
who's to blame?  people pointing fingers aa man in a suit
by Will Dracott 12 November 2025
Number of roadworks double in a year
change on blackboard
by Will Dracott 25 September 2025
Blog highlighting the new dvsa's trial test for leaner drivers in the uk 2025
cover for blog post on waiting times for driving tests
by Will Dracott 30 July 2025
Waiting times for the UK driving test are at a new all time high as the chief of the AA announces that ‘cannot get much worse’
by Will Dracott 30 June 2025
review of the first six months at a-class driving school Bristol in 2025
driving test backlog increase 2025 blog post update
by Will Dracott 2 June 2025
Waiting list up to over 600,000!
blog post on the 7 point plan of the DVSA to solve the waiting time problem surrounding tests
by Will Dracott 29 April 2025
The 7 point plan to salvation 
parked cars
by Will Dracott 19 March 2025
Online driving tutorial - Reverse bay parking