DVSA Rule Changes 2026: What Approved Driving Instructors Need to Know
From May 2026, ADIs lose the ability to manage their pupils' test bookings. Here's a complete guide to the changes, how they affect your business, and how to stay in control using Swappy's free ADI Portal.
Key Date: 12 May 2026
From this date, only the learner can book, change or cancel their own practical driving test. ADIs can no longer do this on their pupils' behalf.
What's Changing for ADIs?
You can no longer book tests for pupils
Previously, many ADIs managed test bookings on behalf of learners. From May 2026, this is not permitted. Pupils must do it themselves via their DVSA account.
You can no longer change test dates
If a pupil needs to move their test, they must contact the DVSA directly. You can help them prepare but cannot act on their behalf.
Pupils can only change twice
Each test booking can only be changed twice. If a pupil uses both changes, they cannot change again — so choosing the right date matters more than ever.
Location restrictions from June 2026
Learners can only book at centres within a defined area around their home. You need to know which centres your pupils can access.
What This Means for Your Business
If you've been managing test bookings for pupils, your workflow needs to change. But more importantly, you're now at risk of losing visibility over when your pupils are testing.
A pupil could swap their test to a date when you're on holiday, or when another pupil is using your car for their test. Without a system in place, you'll have no idea — and you could end up double-booked or unavailable.
How Swappy's Free ADI Portal Solves This
Set blackout dates
Block out your holidays, other pupil tests, and any dates you can't provide a car. Linked pupils won't see swap options on those days.
Set test-readiness windows
Define the earliest date a specific pupil can take their test. They won't see swaps before you say they're ready.
See all your pupils in one dashboard
Track which pupils have tests booked, at what centres, and when. Stay informed without constantly chasing updates.
Weekly availability hours
Set recurring weekly time blocks (e.g. not before 9am on Mondays) to prevent swaps into your lesson time.
What to Tell Your Pupils
Make sure every pupil knows:
- They must have access to their own DVSA account before May 2026
- They can only change their test date twice — so they should be ready before they book
- If they want an earlier date, they should use Swappy (not bots or cancellation checkers)
- They should connect their Swappy account to yours so you can manage their swap availability
Free ADI Portal — Takes 2 Minutes to Set Up
Stay in control of your pupils' test swaps. Set blackout dates, readiness gates, and see everything in one dashboard. Completely free for ADIs.
Set Up Your ADI Portal