THE chief executive of the DVSA (Driver and Vehicle Standards Agency) has said more examiners have been recruited to reduce waiting times for driving tests, as Basingstoke learner drivers face lengthy waits to book an exam.

Loveday Ryder’s comments come as examiners from the Public and Commercial Services (PCS) union took part in their final day of striking today (January 10) over pay, job security and redundancy terms.

Basingstoke test centre, in Brighton Hill, is one of those affected by the strike, which began on January 4, resulting in some learner drivers with a booked practical exam facing the possibility of it being cancelled.

READ MORE: Basingstoke driving test centre closed as examiners strike 

One mum from Basingstoke said her son had tried to book a test in the town and nothing came up for the entire year.

Posting on Facebook, Lauren Ritchie Freitas said: “Me and [my] son tried to book his last night for many times but there are no available appointments for the next year. He’s only done a few lessons but I don’t see the point if he can’t book a test.”

Responding to the concerns about waiting times for a test in Basingstoke, chief executive of the DVSA Ms Ryder said: “Following the pandemic, we know many learners have waited a long time to take their driving test, so alongside other measures, we’ve recruited almost 500 examiners and are currently recruiting more to help provide more tests.

“Learners should only take their driving test if they are completely ready to pass. We strongly urge learners to use our Ready to Pass? Checklist and make sure they’ve had enough lessons so they can drive safely and are ready to pass their test first time.”

The DVSA said it does not know how the strike action will impact the wait for driving tests in Basingstoke.

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Referring to the strike, a spokesperson for the DVSA said: “We regret this decision. We greatly value the work of civil servants across the country, but the PCS Union’s demands would cost an unaffordable £2.4bn at a time when our focus must be on bringing down inflation to ease the pressure on households across the country, protect the vulnerable and rebuild our economy.

“Discussions will continue, but we can provide reassurance that we have comprehensive plans in place to keep essential services running and to minimise disruption.”

According to the DVSA, car, motorcycle, lorry, bus and minibus tests are among those that may be affected by the ongoing strike.

It advises those with a booked practical exam to go to the driving test appointment as planned if it is on the date of strike action, unless DVSA contacts you to tell you not to go.

You will lose your fee for the test if you do not go to the appointment, and you will have to rebook the test yourself.

Otherwise, the DVSA will automatically rebook the test if it cannot go ahead because of the strike action, with the new details sent within five to 10 working days.

Are you a learner driver from Basingstoke trying to book a test? Or are you a driving instructor that has been striking? Get in touch by emailing emily.roberts@newsquest.co.uk.