Plan Needed To Solve Driver Tests Backlog

A RADICAL plan to resolve a huge backlog in driving tests for HGV drivers is needed when the doors opened again to candidates, according to the Logistics Skills Network (LSN).
The warning came as trainers in Scotland said hauliers were ‘screaming for drivers’ but that the earliest theory tests could resume was 26 April when Covid rules north of the border are finally relaxed.
Paul Spink, LSN co-founder, said there was now an estimated backlog of 46,000 HGV driving tests, which would need to be addressed in addition to the average 72,000 tests delivered each year.
He said it was ‘excellent news’ that training and testing resumed in England and Wales from 12 April, but he added: “Having said that, we have been seeking to understand what DVSA’s vocational HGV examination capacity is likely to be from that date.