Driving Tests for Young People

Anna Sabine, MP for Frome and East Somerset, has launched a new survey to hear directly from residents about their experiences with the growing delays in booking and taking driving tests. 

Currently, those living in the east of Somerset have limited options, with test centres only in Taunton, Yeovil and Weston-Super-Mare. Many instead travel across the border to Trowbridge in Wiltshire, which is often the only viable choice. A shortage of instructors and reduced resources has worsened the problem, leading to significant backlogs. 

Figures Anna obtained from the Transport Secretary reveal that in 2024–25 the average wait time at Trowbridge was several weeks, with the longest delays reaching 24 weeks – a shocking six months. In Somerset, delays were even worse, with average wait times last year of 21 weeks in Weston-Super-Mare and 22.5 weeks in Yeovil. 

The system is “simply overwhelmed by demand.” Anna highlighted that even when new slots are released 24 weeks ahead on Monday mornings, many learners find themselves behind 22,000 people in the queue. 

“In rural areas such as Frome and East Somerset, driving is a lifeline,” Anna said. “With minimal public transport, many people rely on cars to reach work, school, medical appointments, or even buy groceries. Learning to drive is already an expensive process, and after that investment, facing six months before even sitting a test is simply unacceptable. If you don’t pass first time, you could be waiting years before finally getting on the road.” 

On average, it takes 2–3 attempts to pass the practical test, making long delays especially disruptive. 

“Huge delays in test availability are cutting rural communities off from the opportunities and resources they need” Anna added. 

The survey will gather local experiences of booking and sitting driving tests to help shape Anna’s campaign to improve access for rural learners. Residents are encouraged to take part and share their stories.