Pandemic forced cancellation of thousands of driving tests in Doncaster

Ahead of tests starting up again on April 22, the AA said the disruption may have impacted learner drivers' confidence and compounded a difficult time for many young people.

Figures from the Driver and Vehicle Standards Agency show 2,265 driving tests were cancelled at Doncaster Test Centre because of the pandemic between March and December.

A further 123 tests were cancelled for other reasons – including 11 for medical absences and 95 because the examiner took annual or special leave.

Acts of nature – adverse weather conditions and bad light – also forced the cancellation of 17 tests.

Across Great Britain, 458,000 tests could not take place because of the pandemic in 2020, though the DVSA said there are currently 420,000 booked for when testing centres reopen.

Lessons have recommenced in England and Wales, with tests set to follow from April 22 – and the AA is expecting huge demand.

Robert Cowell, interim managing director of AA Driving School, said: "Many pupils will have either had a big break in lessons, which may impact their confidence, or have had to postpone driving lessons for many, many months.

"For young people, who have already suffered disruption to their education, not being able to learn to drive will compound an already stilted start to adult life."

He added that extending the validity period of theory test certificates – as has been the case for MOTs and driving licences – or offering a free re-sit, could help reduce demand, or at least lessen the financial impact.

Nicholas Lyes, head of roads policy at the RAC Foundation, said: “Learner drivers will breathe a sigh of relief that driving lessons and tests are restarting, however the backlog for those waiting for both practical and theory tests is likely to be huge."

He also urged the DVSA to consider a short extension for those whose theory test has either expired, or is about to, but the Government has already said it will not do so.

While thousands of tests were cancelled in Doncaster, 1,653 did take place between April and December.

Of these, 685 were successful, giving drivers at Doncaster Test Centre a pass rate of 41% – below the UK average of 50%.

In these confusing and worrying times, local journalism is more vital than ever. Thanks to everyone who helps us ask the questions that matter by taking out a subscription or buying a paper. We stand together. Liam Hoden, editor.