Driving test (practicel) how to get a cancellation?

[LaineyW]

Have just booked DD1's practical driving test online but the earliest date was 9th September. We booked it anyway, hoping to get an earlier cancellation so we can then rearrange it as she's almost ready to take it now...

But, when you go in again to look for earlier dates, the system tells you you've already got one booked and it won't let you get any further.

Is there a way round this? Or will I have to phone them tomorrow?

Any replies gratefully received.

[LaineyW]

'Practical'.

[ajandjjmum]

I was offered a cancellation for DD when I called the contact number given on the website, as I couldn't work out how to do it online.

Incidentally you can look for other dates without losing your booking, although it seems rather complicated to do.

They say that cancellations come up on the system, but I'm not personally convinced that they do - and certainly not promptly.

I'd give them a call.

[LaineyW]

Thanks ajandjjmum. I did try and call them yesterday afternoon but slowly lost the will to live going through the blasted recorded messages and options... will try again later this pm.

[ajandjjmum]

Know the feeling!

Good luck.

[DaisyFields]

I got a cancellation for my test last year. What I did was go into the bit that says 'manage my test' or something and click to change the date of the test.

Then the screen comes up with all the dates (the same page that you chose 9th september from). I sat with this page open ALL DAY pressing F5 (refresh) every 10 minutes or so while I was at work. Every time an earlier date appreared, I selected that one. Until, finally I managed to get one in 8 days time.

It's a real hassle, but worth it to save the money of having a lesson every week until the test.

Good luck!

[LaineyW]

Thanks so much DaisyFields. I've done just that and managed to get one for 23rd August, so will keep trying. I hope she appreciates this.....!

[BlameItOnTheBogey]

Lainey; if you are willing to pay, I know a surefire way to get a much earlier test. I used this website when I kept failing my test (ahem!) They got me a new test within a week on two occassions (passed third time - phew). They text your mobile as soon as a new cancellation is entered onto the system and provided you reply within 10 mins, they then book it for you.

[LaineyW]

Thanks Bogey! That's a great website.

However, I did sit for most of Thursday and just kept refreshing the DSA website page and finally got a slot on 3rd August for her so I think that should be about perfect.

Might go on the cancellation website if she fails though...

[Sherbert37]

I am amazed at how long you are having to wait. We are in central scotland and have been offered dates from 10 - 14 days time. Good luck!

[LaineyW]

Too many blasted cars down here in the south East Sherbert...

[SingleDad1966]

My daughter, Amber, had this issue. The waiting times in our local test centre (Lincoln) is nearly FOUR months. I mean - How have the DVSA not addressed this? Anyway, a family friend told us about a service which finds cancellations - We gave it a try, as we had nothing to lose and thankfully, we found a cancellation within a week. I seriously consider anyone in the same situation to consider the service, from SpeedyTests - it has be an absolute life saver.

[saltandvinegarcrisps1]

Sherbet - it depends where you are - some Glasgow city test centres are 3 month wait but Dumbarton for example was 2 weeks when I was booking. But you then are taking year on roads you don't know/haven't driven on.

[saltandvinegarcrisps1]

Taking test not year

[julieC10]

Thanks @Shirley433! I signed up to that website findmeadrivingtest.co.uk and got a cancellation for the 1st August! Super happy now

[iklboo]

DH is a driving instructor. He recommends findmeadrivingtest as well.

[SoupDragon]

ZOMBIE THREAD FROM 2010

[julieC10]

@soupdragon That is true but still good info for anyone who's looking for a driving test cancellation though!

[worl]

What's with all the zombie driving test threads????