DVSA test swap rules
How driving test swaps work in 2026
Below is a plain-English summary of DVSA's rules for swapping practical driving tests, including the new restrictions introduced in 2026. Always check the official DVSA guidance before swapping.
Change limit
2 changes per booking
A swap counts as one of your two allowed changes (rescheduling or swapping).
The 10-working-day rule
You must request the swap at least 10 working days before the earliest of the two tests (so before both your test date and the other learner's test date). Weekends and bank holidays don't count. Last-minute swaps are not permitted by DVSA.
2026 changes
What's new in 2026?
Learners must manage their own bookings (from 12 May 2026)
Only the learner whose name is on the booking can change, swap or cancel it. Instructors can advise but cannot make the changes for you. Both learners must be on the phone with DVSA for a swap.
3 nearest centres only (from 9 June 2026)
When moving a test (including via swap), it can only be moved to one of the 3 nearest test centres to the postcode on your booking. This is to stop people gaming the system across the country.
2-change limit enforced
Once you've changed your booking twice — whether reschedules or swaps — you can't change it again. If you cancel, you must rebook from scratch.
DVSA does not endorse any swap-matching service
Platforms like UK Test Swap (and others) just help learners find each other. The actual swap is done directly with DVSA over the phone.
How to actually do a swap
- 1Find a learner on UK Test Swap whose test you want — and who wants yours.
- 2Both of you click 'Agree to swap'. Booking references and contact details are then revealed to each other.
- 3Agree a time to phone DVSA together.
- 4Both call DVSA on 0300 200 1122. DVSA will need to speak to both of you.
- 5Give the agent both booking references. They'll process the swap while you're both on the line.
- 6Done — your test slots are exchanged. Each of you has used 1 of your 2 allowed changes.
Eligibility checklist
- Same test type on both bookings (e.g. both practical car tests).
- Each booking still has at least one change remaining.
- Both tests are more than 10 working days away.
- The swap-to centre is one of your 3 nearest (from 9 June 2026).
- Both learners agree and both are on the phone to DVSA.
Always cross-check the official guidance