The new strategies are aimed at clearing driving test slots and addressing epidemic backlogs.
The new rules for learner drivers who fail their driving tests have been changed by the Driver and Vehicle Standards Agency (DVSA).
Previously, a test could be retaken after a 10-day waiting period, but that has now nearly tripled to 28 days.
The extra time has been added to make students who fail their test 'think twice' about taking it again unprepared.
According to the agency, another advantage of the waiting time is that it can assist reduce the three-and-a-half-month waiting list.The DVSA also believes that the test failure rate will decrease, freeing up test slots for students who are better prepared to take the exam.
In consultations this week, the DVSA also advised that the notification period for losing a fee when cancelling a test be increased from three to ten days.
The DVSA's chief driving examiner, Mark Winn, said:
With nearly half of all learners still failing their first car driving test, it is clear we need to do more to make sure learner drivers only take their test when they are fully prepared. These measures will help make sure learners who are test-ready can find appointments and give those who fail more time to get additional practice.
Mark Winn, DVSA's chief driving examiner
The DVSA is also looking into allowing the eyesight check portion of the test to be completed in different ligh,ting levels or by reading from a tablet, in order to increase the number of exams available during the winter months. He said,
Changing the eyesight test will help more tests go ahead in the darker winter days. I would encourage anyone and everyone to respond to our consultation, and thank everyone for their time in offering feedback.
Mark Winn, DVSA's chief driving examiner
Driving instructors may also be obliged to exhibit their registration certificate at every test in order for standard inspections to identify instructors who want assistance and advise. Under proposals to modernise the test process, new drivers may also receive a digital pass certificate.The consultation is open through March 8, 2022, you can read it here.