The Driver and Vehicle Standards Agency (DVSA) has issued a crucial update for thousands of learner drivers across the UK with tests booked during the busy festive period.
Festive Period Opening Times Explained
Driving and theory test centres will operate on altered schedules between late December and early January. While Christmas Day, Thursday 25 December, is the only date when all UK test centres will be completely closed, many will have reduced availability on surrounding days.
The agency states that most centres will be open on 22, 23 December and 3, 4 January. However, from 24 December through to 2 January, only some centres will be open on each given day. A full return to normal service for all sites is scheduled for Monday 5 January.
Customer Service Centre Changes
Those needing to contact the DVSA by phone should also note significant changes to customer service centre hours. These will operate as normal on 22 and 23 December before switching to reduced hours from 8am to 4pm on Christmas Eve.
They will then be closed completely from 25 to 28 December, operate reduced hours again from 29 to 31 December, and close on New Year's Day. After opening as normal on 2 January, they will close for the weekend of 3 and 4 January, resuming normal service from 5 January.
Check Your Test and Refund Deadlines
The DVSA strongly advises all candidates with tests booked during this period to check the official Gov.uk website for the most accurate and centre-specific information. The website also hosts a vital table showing the final dates by which you can change your test booking without extra charges or apply for a refund, which is particularly important for tests falling on altered dates.
Proactive checking is recommended to avoid any last-minute surprises and ensure your path to getting a licence stays on track during the holidays.
