Driving test: cars

5. If your test is cancelled or there's bad weather

Your driving test can be cancelled or stopped because of bad weather, problems with your car, or for other reasons.

Driving tests aren’t carried out in dangerous weather conditions, such as when the roads are icy or if there’s flooding, thick fog or high winds.

Call your test centre if there are any of these conditions on the day of your test.

The phone number for the test centre is on your booking confirmation email.

The Driver and Vehicle Standards Agency (DVSA) will:

automatically book the next available date for your test
send you the details within 3 working days - it can take up to 7 days if there’s a long period of bad weather

You can change the date you’re given if it’s not suitable.

You can’t claim for any out-of-pocket expenses if your test is cancelled because of bad weather.

You’ll have to book another test and pay again if your test can’t be completed because of a problem with:

you, for example, if you feel unwell while taking your test
your car, for example, if it breaks down during the test or doesn’t meet the rules to be used

Sometimes DVSA has to cancel tests for other reasons, for example, if the examiner is unwell.

You’ll be sent a new date for your test if this happens. You can change the date if it’s not suitable.

You can apply for a refund of out-of-pocket expenses if DVSA cancels your test at short notice.

Print entire guide