Learner drivers warned about the risks of driving test cancellation finders

DVSA has published new guidance to help learner drivers stay safe online when they book and manage their driving test.

Some learner drivers are turning to unofficial websites and apps to find an earlier driving test because waiting times are longer than usual in some areas. Earlier appointments are sometimes known as 'cancellation appointments'.

DVSA does not run, approve or endorse any cancellation finder apps or services.

GOV.UK is the only official driving test booking service.

The risks of using unofficial websites

When you use an unofficial website, you might not get important emails from DVSA about your test - including if the DVSA needs to change your test date.

A DVSA review of several unofficial cancellation finders and apps found that none of them had a privacy notice that complied with data protection law.

This meant that privacy notices are missing important information. This includes:

• not saying who was collecting your personal data or giving their contact details
• not explaining the rights you have to access, rectify or delete your personal data
• not explaining the legal basis for processing your personal data
• not saying how long they would store your personal data

You should never give your personal data to any person or organisation unless they explain all of these things.

Take these 3 steps before considering using an unofficial service

DVSA has published new guidance to help learner drivers avoid the risks of using unofficial cancellation finders and apps.

1. Check you're really ready to take an earlier test.

2. Check how the service will use your personal data.

3. Check how much the service will charge.

You can complain to:

• the Information Commissioner's Office if you think a privacy notice is incomplete or missing - or if the company has misused your data
• the Advertising Standards Authority if you think you've found misleading claims about charges or service feature on an unofficial website

If you think you've been a victim of an online scam or fraud

Contact Action Fraud if you think you've lost money or been hacked because of an online scam or fraud and you're in England or Wales. You can:

• report online - either sign up for an account or continue as a 'guest'
• call 0300 123 2040

If you're in Scotland and you've lost money because of an online scam or fraud, report the crime to Police Scotland.

Keep your personal data safe

Loveday Ryder, DVSA Chief Executive, said:

GOV.UK is the only official way to book your practical driving test. Using GOV.UK will keep your data safe, help you stay informed and save money.

You should always keep your driving licence number secure. It could be invaluable to those looking to steal your identity.

DVSA does not run, approve or endorse any cancellation finder apps or services and we encourage learners only to book their driving test when their instructor agrees they are ready.

The driving instructors' National Associations Strategic Partnership (NASP) said:

NASP wholeheartedly supports any campaigns and guidance which works to dissuade learners from using third party booking apps.

Taking shortcuts to queue jump and book an earlier test could come back to bite you, by losing your money, your test slot and even the potential loss or misuse of your personal data.

Don't take the risk, use the proper booking channels, listen to the advice about making sure you're ready for test and becoming a licensed driver, and get and take your test the correct way.

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