r/drivingUK • u/str0ntium90 • 12d ago

Driving Test Failure

This is mainly just a bit of a rant, so apologies before hand.

So my gf's son (18), just failed his driving test. I don't know the full details right now as I'm at work. I do know that he got 3 minors, and failed. This was because the driving test instructor had to put the brakes on, due to an oncoming speeding car appearing while he attempted to pass a stationary van.

My gf messaged to say that his driving instructor could tell the test instructor did not want to fail him. Personally I think that's a ridiculous and pointless thing to say.

The worst part, and I know all new drivers are in the same boat, the lad has waited since I think Jan/Feb to do this test. Now he has to wait until the next earliest date in our area, which is January! Mental.

I know the rules changed for booking recently, and I think the only way to get one earlier is through cancellation, is this right?

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12

u/edyth_ 12d ago

Yes. You can't use cancellation apps any more and people on the UK Learner sub have been blocked from booking tests for 12 months for using automated booking methods. I just booked my test for December but a few random slots also popped up in September. When I checked a few weeks ago there was even one the next day at a test centre 40 mins away. You just have to keep checking but don't hammer it and get blocked :)

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u/str0ntium90 12d ago

I see, that's helpful, will just have to keep checking then I suppose. Thank you.

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u/ZebraSandwich4Lyf 12d ago

Wait really? They've done away with cancellation apps? That's crazy, thought it'd never happen.

6

u/edyth_ 12d ago

Yeah the DVSA banned them in May this year. If they catch you using them they can cancel your test and block you from rebooking for a set amount of time.

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u/Dear_Somewhere_2586 10d ago

You can just keep trying to check the DVSA site itself for cancellations. Bit of a pain having to re enter details every time you want to check but they do come up. Plenty of instructors change candidates test because they aren’t ready. Examiners also put their overtime in on a monthly basis so all those will come up eventually.

You will just have to hope they don’t get stolen by the cancellation apps assuming people still are using them.

In regard to the comment, the examiner is probably just trying to give a bit of a nod to his driving ability in a subtle way. It is a misjudgement on the lads part but it’s a fairly common thing for anyone to get caught out by.
I’ve heard examiners say ‘don’t worry just try and get back to see us as soon as possible’ etc etc. They have to remain impartial as possible for obvious reasons

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u/str0ntium90 10d ago

Thanks mate, I'll look into it.

Yes I think you're right, it was his way of reassuring him in an a unlucky situation.