Demand to 'skyrocket' as driving lessons resume
Driving lessons and tests resume next week in England and Wales
Last updated 7th Apr 2021
Demand for driving lessons and tests is expected to "skyrocket" in England and Wales as both resume this month after being banned for much of the last year.
The continuing easing of Covid-19 restrictions means that lessons can restart on 12th April and tests on 22nd April, as confirmed by the Driver and Vehicle Standards Agency via Twitter.
From 12th April, all driving lessons with instructors can resume, as well as theory tests, motorcycle lessons, lorry lessons and tests, car and trailer tests and minibus lessons and tests.
Driving tests will then restart on 22nd April, as well as parts 2 and 3 of Approved Driving Instructor.
The number of young people who hold a driving licence in the UK has fallen to the lowest level since current records began, with less than 3 million of 16-25-year-olds holding a full licence.
Between December and mid-March, the AA Driving School had over 26,000 requests from people asking to be notified when lessons could resume.
Interim directing manager of the AA Driving School Robert Cowell assured that instructors are prepared to help students overcome challenges faced by learning to drive in lockdown.
He said: “After months of uncertainty this is truly welcome news for driving instructors and pupils around the country.
“More than 26,000 prospective pupils contacted us during the latest lockdown, so demand is going to skyrocket now instructors can open their books again.
“Those who started learning to drive before lockdown will now tackle the additional challenge of starting back after the long break."
Mr Cowell added that he was "confident" that many lockdown learners would be "on the road to success very soon."
What other restrictions will be lifted from 12th April?
12 April: shops, hairdressers, nail salons, libraries, outdoor attractions
From 12 April, non-essential shops, hairdressers, nail salons, libraries, outdoor attractions, including zoos, theme parks and outdoor cinemas will be permitted to reopen.
12 April: Beer gardens reopen
From 12 April, pubs, restaurants and other hospitality venues will be allowed to serve people outdoors. There will be no need for customers to order a substantial meal with alcoholic drinks and no curfew, although you must order via table service.
12 April: Gyms reopen
Indoor leisure facilities such as gyms can reopen from 12 April (but only for use by people on their own or in household groups).
12 April: Self contained accommodation
Self-contained accommodation such as campsites and holiday lets, where indoor facilities are not shared with other households can also reopen in Step 2 of lockdown easing, taking place on the 12th April.
17 May: Indoor mixing
STEP THREE: From May 17 at earliest, two households or groups of up to six people can mix indoors and limited crowds will be allowed to return to sporting events. Children's play areas will be opened alongside hotels, and limited groups will be allowed in theatres.
17 May: Possible foreign travel
STEP THREE: Foreign travel may be permitted from 17 May.
17 May: Indoor hospitality
STEP THREE: Indoor hospitality including pubs and restaurants could reopen from 17 May.
21 June: Nightclubs could reopen
From 21 June all remaining restrictions on social distancing could be lifted, and larger events may be allowed to resume, including theatres. Nightclubs may also be allowed to reopen.
21 June: Bigger weddings
Bigger wedding celebrations may be permitted from 21 June.