The Driver and Vehicle Agency (DVA) has released its ‘Monthly Tests Conducted Statistics’ report for December 2024, detailing the performance and activities in vehicle, driver, and theory testing. Published by the Department for Infrastructure (DfI), this report provides insights into testing trends that may be significant for motorists, learner drivers, and industry stakeholders.
The announcement is particularly relevant given recent changes in testing volumes and procedures, including the impact of industrial strike actions and the introduction of Temporary Exemption Certificates (TECs) for certain private cars.
Vehicle Testing Trends
In December 2024, the DVA conducted a total of 83,849 vehicle tests, marking a 7.8% increase compared to December 2023. This figure includes 70,561 full tests and 13,288 retests, representing the highest number of vehicle tests conducted in a December since records began. From April to December 2024/25, the agency delivered 854,941 vehicle tests, underscoring a significant demand for vehicle examination services.
Applications for full vehicle tests during December 2024 stood at 62,956, a decrease from the 73,036 applications received in December 2023. This decrease in applications alongside an increase in tests conducted may suggest improved efficiencies within the DVA or a clearing of backlogs.
Impact of Temporary Exemption Certificates
Starting from 1 June 2024, the DVA issued Temporary Exemption Certificates (TECs) to private cars first registered between specific dates. These TECs extend the validity of existing MOT certificates by 12 months, aiming to reduce the number of applications for vehicle tests. While the initiative seems to manage application volumes, it’s noteworthy that the number of tests conducted remains high, raising questions about the allocation of resources and capacity planning within the agency.
Driver and Theory Testing
Practical driving tests saw an increase, with 4,577 tests conducted in December 2024—up 9.8% from the previous year. From April to December 2024/25, a total of 52,652 driver tests were delivered, indicating a 10% rise compared to the same period in 2023/24. Applications for driving tests remained stable, suggesting consistent demand for driver licensing services.
Driver theory tests also experienced growth, with 6,568 tests conducted in December 2024, a 10.2% increase from December 2023. The year-to-date figures show a marginal rise, reflecting steady interest in obtaining driving qualifications.
Considerations and Questions
Despite the increased testing activities, the report mentions that testing volumes were impacted by industrial strike actions on 22nd September 2023 and 18th January 2024. The extent of this impact on service delivery and waiting times is not detailed.