Latest Driving Test Changes: What’s New in 2026 for Richmond Learners (RDS)

At Richmond Driving School (RDS), we’re ensuring all learners in Richmond upon Thames (SW14/TW9), East Sheen, Mortlake, Barnes and surrounding Surrey/South West London areas stay fully prepared for DVSA’s 2026 updates. Rolled out from late 2025 and now standard, these changes prioritise real-world skills amid ongoing test backlogs (20–24 weeks average). Here’s what you need to know:​
Practical Test Updates Now Live

• Fewer routine stops: Reduced from 4 to 3 per test, allowing more time on higher-speed roads like the A316 or A307 – essential for Richmond test routes near Isleworth centre.
• Emergency stops rarer: Now only 1 in 7 tests (down from 1 in 3), shifting focus to proactive hazard awareness over isolated drills.
• Extended independent driving: Up to the full 40 minutes following sat nav or signs, mimicking solo drives on busy Kew/Richmond traffic – building confidence for post-test motorway work.​

Theory Test Expansion: First Responder Skills
From 2026, theory exams add questions on life-saving responses, including CPR, defibrillator activation and severe bleeding control. This equips drivers as potential first-aiders in RTCs – critical on A roads near Richmond Park. Our lessons integrate Highway Code refreshers to ace hazard perception alongside these.
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Booking Rules Tightened from Spring 2026
To tackle cancellations and backlog:

• Learners book solo: You handle practical bookings directly on GOV.UK – no more instructor/third-party access.
• Limited amendments: Max 2 changes per slot (date/time/centre).
• Local centres only: Can’t switch far (e.g. Richmond to Croydon) – must stay nearby like Isleworth or Hounslow.

RDS advantage: We excel at last-minute cancellations (often 5–10 days' notice) for Richmond/Isleworth tests. With £38/hr lessons (10-block £370), text for slots while prepping mocks.
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Minimum Learning Period: Consultation Until March 2026
DfT proposes 3–6 months mandatory gap post-theory pass, with logged minimum supervised hours (lessons + private practice) and progress logbook/syllabus. Aims to cut novice crashes (32% drop in trials abroad). Not mandatory yet – DVSA guidance stays 45 pro lessons + 22 private hours for readiness – but expect checks soon.
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Richmond Driving School: Lessons, Courses & Areas
RDS offers manual/automatic beginner lessons, intensive courses (test-ready in 2 weeks), Pass Plus, motorway modules and refreshers in dual-controlled cars (£38/hr weekdays, blocks £370/10). Fully qualified male/female DVSA instructors cover Richmond SW14/TW9/TW10 (Mortlake, East Sheen), Barnes, Kew, Ham, Petersham and nearby Surrey/SW London.

Freephone 0800 612 6203 or 0208 181 9209 (after 7pm) – start today!