Driving test backlog grows

Friday 12 January 2024

An additional examiner will have to come over from the UK as a backlog in learners wanting to take their driving test extends beyond Easter.

A number of driving instructors informed their learners earlier this week that they had been told by Driver and Vehicle Licensing that no examiners were available until 22 January, meaning all tests booked for before that date were being rescheduled.

Traffic and Highway Services has confirmed that while no tests have been canceled, some have been rescheduled, meaning there are no vacant test slots available now before April.

Just last week staff at Edward T Wheadon House were telling learner drivers that tests were available in early March. 

Colin Le Page, Lead Officer – Traffic and Highway Services, said the problem has occurred because of a "recent vacancy" meaning Guernsey currently only has one full-time driving examiner rather than the usual two.

“Due to a recent vacancy for one of our two full-time driving examiner posts, we have been required to make some changes to scheduled practical driving tests," he said.

"Although we haven’t had to cancel any tests, it has been necessary to reschedule some.

“To address this situation, we will be bringing over additional examiners from the UK as we have done before, as well as local examiners working additional hours

“Although driving test slots are fully booked until the end of March, we have today made spaces available for early April.

“We’re sorry for any inconvenience this has caused for people who were due to take their test but hope that we can fill this vacancy to improve this situation.”