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The DVSA revealed the main reason behind cancellation had been due to social distancing concerns and in a bid to protect instructors. They warned it would not be possible to maintain an appropriate distance by sitting in a “confined space” but said they understood the concerns of many who have faced cancellations during the lockdown.
Replying to a learner driver on Twitter, the DVSA said: “We understand this is a great inconvenience.
“But it’s not possible to socially distance when in a confined space such as a car and in close proximity to an instructor or examiner.
“The safety of examiners, instructors and candidates must always remain our priority.”
The DVSA said all vehicle practical tests and lessons remain suspended until lockdown restrictions have been lifted.
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In tough new coronavirus rules, learners have also been warned restrictions will now apply on when they are allowed to practice.
Driving tuition is still allowed in the latest lockdown but only if road users make sure their journey is essential.
They said: “You can only practise driving with members of your household or support bubble when travelling for work, education or other essential journeys.
“We will update you as soon as the government makes further announcements.”
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The DVSA has said they will email all candidates affected by driving test cancellations.
Driving schools who have booked a time and date for their pupils will receive this information to pass onto learner drivers as soon as possible.
The DVSA has said if the new date and time is not suitable it would be possible to pick a new date online.
They said in a statement: “We move tests to the next available dates for all candidates.
“We can only reschedule tests based on Government confirmations not speculation.
“If your pupils are not happy with the dates given they can reschedule themselves.”
Theory tests also remain suspended until all restrictions have been lifted with the government refusing to extend theory pass certificates past their current two-year limit.
Over 59,000 people have signed an online petition demanding for theory tests which expired between 2020 and 2021 to be extended by 12 months.
However, the DVSA said this was not possible because road safety skills needed to be up to date when taking your lessons.
They add that your hazard perception skills also need to be to a high enough standard before taking a driving test.
Replying to the petition, the Government said there were “no current plans” to extend theory test certificates.
They said: “The maximum duration of two years between passing the theory test and practical test is in place for road safety reasons and the Government has no current plans to lay legislation to extend it.”
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