More driving test slots are being made available to tackle a severe backlog as figures show a 15% increase in learner drivers with future tests booked compared with this time last year.

Driver and Vehicle Standards Agency (DVSA) figures show 668,128 people had a practical driving test booked in Britain at the end of September, up from 579,138 a year earlier.

The DVSA has said an increase in demand and some learners booking tests much earlier than before has led to the significant backlog.

Last month, 168,644 tests were conducted, an increase of 14% from 148,144 in September 2024. Roads minister Simon Lightwood described the 20,000 rise as “fantastic”.

The government recently consulted on amending the driving test booking system to try to stop bots mass-booking new slots to be resold on the hidden market for inflated prices.

Last month’s pass rate was 49.9%, which was down from 50.7% in August and represented a six-month low. Officials have urged learners not to book a test until they are confident they will pass.

Lightwood said: “We promised more tests, and we’ve delivered. It’s fantastic that the DVSA has carried out over 20,000 more tests in September this year.

“We inherited a broken system, with learners ready to ditch their L plates but unable to get a test. That’s why we instructed the DVSA to take further measures this year, and we’re now seeing real improvement.

“We’re incentivising driving examiners to carry out more tests, nearly doubling the number of trainers available to teach new examiners, unlocking more tests. There’s still more to be done – and we will make sure the DVSA continues to do all they can to reduce waiting times, breaking down the barriers of opportunity.”

Steve Gooding, director of motoring research charity the RAC Foundation, said: “At last, we’re seeing light at the end of the driving test delay tunnel. These figures might not be much comfort for those already in the system, but things might be about to become better for those looking to apply for tests.

“Let’s hope this marks the start of genuine turnaround for a qualification that, for many, is among the most important they will need.”

The transport secretary, Heidi Alexander, said in April that her department aimed to reduce the average waiting time for driving tests to seven weeks by summer 2026. The figure was 21.8 weeks at the end of September.

Tests can be booked up to 24 weeks in advance, with new slots released on a rolling basis.