The Driver and Vehicle Licensing Agency (DVLA) and Department for Transport (DfT) have confirmed a package of driving licence reforms taking effect from February 2026.
The changes introduce tighter learner test booking controls, expanded theory test content including CPR knowledge, and accelerated rollout of optional digital driving licences through GOV.UK systems.
Ministers say the reforms aim to improve road safety, reduce test booking abuse and modernise identity verification. Motorists across England, Scotland and Wales will be affected, with Northern Ireland operating separate licensing arrangements.
What Is Changing in February 2026?
The confirmed reforms include:
- Stricter controls on learner driver test bookings
- Expanded theory test content including CPR and first aid
- Accelerated digital driving licence rollout
- Enhanced identity verification at renewal
- Stronger fraud prevention measures
Physical photocard licences remain valid and will continue to be renewed every 10 years.
Digital Driving Licence Expansion
From February 2026, the DVLA will expand its digital licence pilot via the GOV.UK One Login and GOV.UK Wallet systems.
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Key Features:
- Optional digital version of full driving entitlements
- Real-time updates for endorsements and address changes
- Smartphone-based proof of entitlement
- Biometric identity verification during setup
The digital licence will sit alongside — not replace — the plastic photocard.
Drivers must ensure personal details remain accurate. Failure to update address details can already result in fines of up to £1,000, and this enforcement will continue under digital integration.
Identity Checks
New applicants or renewals may require:
- Passport verification
- Facial recognition checks
- Linked identity confirmation
Processing times for some applications could extend by several weeks during rollout.
Learner Driver Booking Rules Tightened
A major change affects learner drivers booking practical tests.
From February 2026:
- Only the provisional licence holder may book a practical test
- Instructors and third parties cannot book on their behalf
- Only two appointment changes permitted
- Test centre changes restricted within 25 miles of the original location
- Late cancellations (within 48 hours) result in full £62 fee loss
- Repeated no-shows may lead to a temporary rebooking restriction
The DVSA says the move targets black-market reselling of test slots, which has driven waiting times in urban areas.
Booking Rules Comparison
| Rule | Before 2026 | From February 2026 |
|---|---|---|
| Who can book | Instructors/third parties allowed | Learner only |
| Appointment changes | Unlimited | Maximum 2 |
| Test centre relocation | Any UK centre | Within 25 miles |
| Late cancellation fee | Reduced charge | Full £62 fee |
| No-show outcome | Warning | Possible temporary ban |
The government says the changes will prioritise genuine candidates and reduce booking abuse.
Theory Test Now Includes CPR and First Aid
From February 2026, theory tests will include questions on:
- Hands-only CPR
- Basic bleed control
- Use of defibrillators
- Emergency response at crash scenes
The DVSA has expanded its question bank to more than 950 questions.
Candidates must continue to pass:
- Multiple-choice section
- Hazard perception section
The aim is to equip new drivers with life-saving knowledge, responding to evidence that delayed roadside intervention contributes to preventable fatalities.
Retake fees remain £23.
Vehicle Excise Duty Links
While not a direct licence change, high-emission vehicle owners may also face updated Vehicle Excise Duty (VED) rates from 2026.
These changes operate separately but form part of broader transport policy adjustments.
What About Drivers Over 70?
Drivers aged 70 and over must continue to:
- Renew licences every three years
- Self-declare medical fitness
The February 2026 reforms do not introduce automatic new medical testing but strengthen identity verification during renewal.
Do Drivers Need to Take Action?
Full Licence Holders
- Continue renewing photocard every 10 years
- Keep address details updated
- Consider optional digital licence activation
Learner Drivers
- Prepare to book tests personally
- Avoid multiple booking changes
- Ensure readiness before confirming appointments
All Drivers
- Monitor official GOV.UK announcements
- Be cautious of scam emails referencing licence “updates”
Are These Changes Law?
Yes. The reforms are confirmed by the DfT and implemented via DVLA and DVSA operational updates.
They form part of the Government’s wider digital transformation roadmap targeting full digital credential integration by 2027.
FAQs
When do the new rules start?
From February 2026, with some phased implementation.
Can instructors still book tests?
No. Learners must book their own practical tests.
Is the digital licence mandatory?
No. It is optional alongside the plastic photocard.
What happens if I change my address?
You must update DVLA records. Failure can result in fines up to £1,000.
Does the theory test now include CPR?
Yes. CPR and first aid knowledge will form part of the multiple-choice section.
Are older drivers affected?
Over-70 renewals continue every three years, with strengthened identity checks.
Will test fees increase?
Standard practical (£62 weekday) and theory (£23) fees remain unchanged.
