Cancelled or stopped driving tests and bad weather

Sometimes the Driving Standards Agency (DSA) has to cancel or stop driving tests because of bad weather, vehicle problems or other reasons.

Your test will usually be automatically rebooked for you at no further cost if it’s cancelled by DSA.

Bad weather: Practical driving tests are not held in dangerous weather conditions, e.g. when the roads are icy.

Call your test centre if there is snow or ice in your local area on the day of your test.

When to phone your test centre: You should call the test centre:

• as soon as you can on the day of your test if it’s booked for early in the morning
• later in the morning if your test is in the afternoon

No answer from the test centre: If nobody answers the phone, and the conditions in your area aren’t looking too bad, it’s likely that the driving examiners are:

• checking the local roads to see if driving tests can go ahead
• taking driving tests because the conditions are suitable

However, this isn’t a guarantee that your test will go ahead.

Call the test centre again or go there in time for your test.

If your test can’t go ahead: A new appointment date will usually be sent to you within 3 working days. This could take up to 7 days when the bad weather goes on for longer.

You won’t be able to claim for any out-of-pocket expenses.

Waiting times for a practical driving test: As well as causing cancellations, bad weather can sometimes lead to longer waiting times for practical test appointments.

Tests cancelled by DSA for other reasons: You might be able to claim out-of-pocket expenses if your test is cancelled by DSA at short notice.

‘Short notice’ means less than 3 clear working days’ notice. Working days include Saturdays, but don’t include public holidays.
You can’t claim if the test was cancelled because of:

• bad weather and poor light
• vehicle problems
• driver problems

To apply, download the application form and send it to DSA.

Download ‘Application for refunding out-of-pocket expenses’ form (PDF, 176KB)

DSA 
PO Box 280 
Newcastle-upon-Tyne 
NE99 1FP 


Problems with you or your vehicle: You’ll have to take another test at your own cost if your test can’t be completed because of a problem with:

• you - for example, if you feel unwell while taking your test
• your vehicle - for example, if it breaks down during the test or is not suitable for the test