Press release

Better local services for driving test candidates in the Watford area

Driving test candidates in the Watford area are set to benefit from a more convenient service.

This was published under the 2010 to 2015 Conservative and Liberal Democrat coalition government

The Driving Standards Agency (DSA) is extending a trial exploring a new approach to test delivery.

As well as using conventional driving test centres, DSA has been looking at whether practical driving tests can be delivered from other venues such as local authority buildings, hotels or leisure centres.

This new approach is currently being trialed at 8 locations, and following positive feedback from candidates and instructors, DSA now plans to extend the scheme to 5 more areas across the country, including Watford.

Road Safety Minister Mike Penning said:

We have to be more flexible and innovative in delivering driving tests to make sure that we are offering people the best service possible wherever they live and I am delighted that these first trials have proved successful.

We are now extending the trial so that more candidates will be able to benefit from a service that is convenient as well as being cost effective.

In each of the 5 new trial areas DSA will look to identify a number of locations where there is sufficient demand for driving tests to be provided locally. In the Watford area, these locations could include:

  • Hemel Hempstead
  • Harpenden
  • Hatfield
  • Welwyn Garden City

DSA will work to identify suitable test routes and premises in these locations. Any new arrangements will have to provide the right level of service for candidates, as well as maintaining the integrity of the test.

Published 27 March 2012