Residents are being encouraged to share their experiences of delays in booking and taking driving tests, following a new survey launched by MP Anna Sabine.
The MP says the system is ‘simply overwhelmed by demand’ and a shortage of instructors and reduced resources has led to significant backlogs.
“In rural areas such as Frome and East Somerset, driving is a lifeline. With minimal public transport, many people rely on cars to reach work, school, medical appointments, or even buy groceries,” said Anna.
Figures Anna obtained from the Transport Secretary reveal that in 2024 to 2025 the average wait time at Trowbridge, the closest test centre to Frome, was several weeks, with the longest delays reaching 24 weeks to six months.
She said, “Learning to drive is already an expensive process and after that investment, facing six months before even sitting a test is simply unacceptable. If you don’t pass the first time, you could be waiting years before finally getting on the road.
The survey will gather local experiences of booking and sitting driving tests to help shape Anna’s campaign to improve access for rural learners. Residents are encouraged to take part and share their stories.
To take part in the survey, visit https://tinyurl.com/Driving-Test-Survey
