Driving tests in bad weather
What you need to do

Some driving tests may be affected by winter weather.

The Driver and Vehicle Standards Agency (DVSA) doesn't conduct practical driving tests in adverse weather conditions, for example when the roads are icy.
This is for the safety of both the person taking the test and the examiner.

DVSA should email you if your driving test is cancelled.

If you're due to take your practical test, follow the advice given on your appointment email or letter.

Around 1 to 2 hours before your test is scheduled you can call (or e-mail) your test centre only if there is Fog, Snow, Ice or even floods in your local area on the day of your test.

The driving test routes are usually checked numerous time during a the day in bad weather conditions and a decision whether a test goes ahead is often made 1 or 2 hours before it is scheduled.

The test centre staff will NOT be able to provide you with test information if you call (or e-mail) the day before your test. If your driving test is scheduled for an afternoon appointment, call (or e-mail) the test centre staff in the morning.
If tests are going ahead, it is highly likely the afternoon appointments will also take place providing conditions remain the same.



If your test is cancelled

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.

When and how to claim for out-of-pocket expenses

You can apply for a refund of out-of-pocket expenses if the Driver and Vehicle Standards Agency (DVSA) cancels your theory or practical driving test 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 claim for:
• the cost of travelling to and from the test centre or vehicle hire
• pay or earnings you lost through taking unpaid leave

You can’t claim for:
• the cost of driving lessons or training courses that you took before your test appointment
• extra lessons that you decide to take while waiting for your rearranged test

You can’t claim if the test was cancelled because of:
• bad weather and poor light
• vehicle problems
• driver problems for example driver illness

To Apply for a refund of expenses for a cancelled driving test Visit GOV.UK Website for more details. Simply fill in the form and send it to the Driver and Vehicle Standards Agency (DVSA).

Practice makes perfect, so get plenty of practice from a Approved Driving Instructor.

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