The Public and Commercial Services Union (PCS) has notified the Driver and Vehicle Standards Agency (DVSA) of their intention to strike on the following dates:
- 8 and 9 February – affecting all PCS members in DVSA, including driving examiners
- 10 and 11 February – impacting any PCS members in DVSA who are contracted to work weekends
Despite efforts to address concerns raised about the working arrangements for driving examiners and the driving test service, DVSA’s offer to PCS to resolve the dispute was rejected. This has led to the disappointment of DVSA customers and the public, as they expect a 7-day per week service from a publicly funded body like DVSA.
Due to the strike action, DVSA is unable to confirm the level of impact it may have on its services. Not all DVSA staff are members of PCS, and even those who are may choose not to participate in the strike. Therefore, the overall impact remains uncertain until the action takes place.
If your pupil has booked a test themselves
DVSA is reaching out to all candidates with a test booked on the strike dates at affected driving test centers. They are advised to attend their test as scheduled unless instructed otherwise by DVSA. Additionally, candidates have the option to change the date of their test if desired.
DVSA has also contacted candidates with tests scheduled up to and including 6 February to assure them that their tests won’t be impacted by the strike action.
If you have booked a test for your pupil
If you have arranged a test for a pupil during the strike action, it is recommended to discuss the situation with them. If they choose to change the test date, it must be done through the normal online booking system with at least 3 clear working days’ notice to avoid additional charges.
Should the pupil decide not to change the date and the test cannot proceed due to the strike action, it will be rescheduled at the earliest opportunity. Additionally, candidates who show up for their test will be able to claim out-of-pocket expenses, as per the guidelines.
Rescheduling some tests in advance
In an effort to mitigate the impact of the strike action, DVSA may proactively reschedule some tests and will communicate this to affected candidates beforehand.
Candidates who have tests scheduled and are affected will receive an email notification, and it is important to inform them of any changes.
Customer service centre
Given the potential impact on the customer service center, there may be delays in responding to queries. The center will continue to operate from 8 am to 4 pm on 8 and 9 February.
Keep checking for updates
For the latest information about the driving examiner strike, please visit the official GOV.UK website. Additionally, it is recommended to monitor email communications for any further updates.