Tackling the Driving Test Backlog

New DVSA Chief Executive Appointed to Drive Down Driving Test Backlog

The Driver and Vehicle Standards Agency (DVSA) has appointed Beverley Warmington as its new Chief Executive, marking a significant leadership change aimed at tackling the driving test backlog. Warmington officially takes up the post on 5 January 2026 and will lead the agency at a critical time as it works to reduce long waiting times and implement key reforms across the test booking system.

Warmington arrives at the DVSA with nearly two decades of public service experience and a strong record of managing large, complex operations across government. Most recently, she served as Area Director for London, Essex and Eastern England at the Department for Work and Pensions, where she was responsible for more than 12,000 staff across multiple sites. Her background in operational transformation is expected to play a crucial role in accelerating improvements in how driving tests are delivered nationwide.

In announcing her appointment, Minister for Roads and Buses, Simon Lightwood, emphasised the broader impact of driving on people’s lives, describing driving as more than just transport — “a lifeline for many, opening doors to jobs, opportunities and contributing to the growth of our economy.” Lightwood expressed confidence that Warmington’s leadership will help “grip the driving test backlog” and ensure reforms are delivered effectively.

Warmington succeeds Loveday Ryder, who led the DVSA since January 2021 and guided the agency through unprecedented periods, including the COVID-19 pandemic. Ryder’s tenure was marked by efforts to navigate pandemic-related disruptions and lay the groundwork for tackling long wait times. The Department for Transport has thanked her for her service.

A Focus on Reform and Delivery

Warmington’s appointment comes as the DVSA continues to progress the government’s seven-point plan to reduce driving test waiting times. Originally launched in late 2024, this plan includes a series of operational and booking reforms designed to make the system more accessible and efficient.

Key changes already implemented include:

• Bringing in military driving examiners to conduct civilian driving tests one day a week for 12 months, adding up to 6,500 extra test slots at high-demand centres.
• Tightening the booking system so that only learner drivers can book their own tests — instructors can no longer book on behalf of students.
• Restricting learners to a limited number of nearby test centres and limiting the number of changes (moves, swaps or location changes) they can make to a booking before it must be cancelled and rebooked.
• Incentivising examiners with overtime pay, which has already helped deliver almost 75,000 more tests between June and November 2025 compared to the same period in 2024.

Why This Matters

Long waiting times for practical driving tests have frustrated learner drivers across Great Britain, with many waiting months to get a test date. Extended delays can have wide-ranging impacts — from increased costs of lessons and preparation to barriers in accessing employment or further education. Addressing this issue is not only about motoring convenience but also about supporting economic participation and personal mobility.

Warmington’s leadership signals a renewed commitment to tackling these challenges through hands-on operational oversight. As the DVSA continues to implement changes and build capacity, her experience in steering large teams and transforming services will be vital to making tangible progress.

You can find more information on the Gov website: Changes to driving test booking rules in 2026 – GOV.UK