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Learning to drive during Covid-19
2020-11-24*Please note all information is correct at the time of publication (24/11/19).
Covid-19 has affected all of us around the world in 2020. Including those learner drivers who were hoping to learn to drive this year. National and local lockdowns have caused massive disruption to driving lessons and tests, but it’s not impossible for those learning to drive during Covid-19.
Here’s the full details on what exactly has changed during these uncertain times for learner drivers.
Learning to drive in lockdown
Whether you’re facing a local or nationwide lockdown, learning to drive will be different for you. It is important to say due to different restrictions coming in and out of place, before you choose to do anything, you should check the government website to double check it complies with the law.
Your driving lessons may be cancelled, but you may be able to practice your driving locally with a member of your household.
For more tips about learning to drive in lockdown, read our full article here.
How driving lessons have changed during Covid-19
Driving lessons were restarted shortly after the first lockdown was lifted, and the DVSA says that lessons with driving instructors in England will resume from the 3rd of December. If you’ve booked in with an instructor for some driving lessons, please make sure you wear a mask and wash your hands before you get into their car. And of course, it goes without saying that if you feel unwell, to cancel your lesson and take the appropriate steps to self isolate.It’s always good to double check what the Covid-19 procedure with your driving instructor will be before your lesson.
Booking your driving test during Covid-19
If you have a driving test scheduled but the country or your local area goes into lockdown, the DVSA will attempt to re-schedule your test without charge. The government website has declared that driving tests are currently suspended up to and including the 2nd of December in England.
In Scotland, driving tests are taking place in council areas in local Covid protection levels 0 to 3. In Wales driving tests are taking place as usual. Due to national lockdowns, driving tests are now backed up.
Meaning it is significantly harder to get a test booked, but not impossible. When booking reopens in your country, make sure to use the government website only.
How the driving test has changed due to Covid-19?
Of course, as with the driving lessons, some details of your driving test have changed in order to keep yourself and others safe.
- You will be asked to wear a face covering for the duration of the driving test, as well as the examiner.
- You won't be able to have your instructor or supervising driver sit in with you.
- Make sure to arrive no more than 5 minutes prior to your test.
- Waiting rooms and toilets at the centre will be closed.
- If you make a serious fault that causes you to fail your driving test, the driving examiner will end the driving test there to minimise time spent in the car.
Important links Covid-19 is affecting learner drivers
The first place you should check for any amendments to Covid-19 restrictions if the government website. Below are the relevant links. Government guidance on Covid-19 Government guidance on Covid-19 and Driving Tests. NHS latest guidance on Covid 19 NHS mental wellbeing guidance during Covid-19 One important thing to remember is that there’s no rush to get your licence. These are testing times for everyone, so above all please all stay safe out there.
