The Driver and Vehicle Standards Agency (DVSA) has changed its rules for learner drivers who fail their driving tests.
While it used to be that a test could be retaken after a waiting period of 10 days, that has now nearly tripled to 28 days.
The extended waiting period has been put in place to make learners who fail their test 'think twice' before retaking it unprepared.
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Another benefit of the waiting period is that it can help cut down the three-and-a-half-month waiting list, according to the agency.
The DVSA also hopes that the failure rate of tests will reduce while freeing up test slots for learners who are more prepared to take the exam.
It has also been suggested by the DVSA in consultations this week that the notice period for losing a fee when cancelling a test is extended from three to 10 days.
Mark Winn, chief driving examiner for DVSA, 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."
The DVSA is also looking into allowing the eyesight check of the test to be carried out in different lighting levels or by reading from a tablet so more exams are available during the winter.
Mr Winn added: “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.”
Driving instructors may also be required to display their registration certificate on every test in order to identify instructors who need support and advice through standard checks.
New drivers could also receive a digital pass certificate under plans to modernise the test process.
The consultation will end on March 8, 2022 and is available to read here .
It comes after the DVSA deals with large backlogs stemming from the pandemic which caused less tests to be carried out.
Another way the agency is helping to tackle this is by asking retired examiners to conduct tests and has already recruited 300 additional examiners while carrying out tests at weekends and on public holidays.
