AQW 51276/22-27


Mr Eóin Tennyson
Alliance Party
Upper Bann


Tabled Date: 08/09/2026
Answered On Date: 23/09/2026
Priority Written: No


Question:
To ask the Minister for Infrastructure to detail any action her Department is taking to (i) increase practical driving test capacity; and (ii) reduce waiting times, at the Craigavon Test Centre.


Answer:
The Driver and Vehicle Agency (DVA) delivered 23,915 practical driving tests between April and July 2026, an increase of 3.5% compared with the same period last year.
Demand for driving tests continues to rise, with applications across the North increasing by 10% between February and July 2026 compared with the same period last year. This increase in demand, together with local operational pressures at some test centres, including Craigavon, has contributed to longer waiting times.
To increase practical driving test capacity, DVA has implemented a range of measures. These include the recruitment of additional driving examiners who, subject to successfully completing their training, will be allocated to test centres, from autumn 2026. DVA also uses overtime by rostering off-shift dual-role examiners to provide additional testing capacity and cover periods of leave. In addition, driving test appointments are made available on Sundays and bank holidays where operationally appropriate.
Driving test appointments are released up to four months in advance, with additional slots added as examiner resources become available. Customers are advised to book the earliest available appointment and to check regularly for cancellations and newly released test slots.
I fully appreciate that learner drivers are keen to pass their test as soon as possible. While demand remains high, candidates may wish to consider all available options to secure an earlier appointment, including booking at an alternative test centre.
DVA remains committed to reducing waiting times for driving tests across the North, including at Craigavon. It is anticipated that demand will ease from October 2026 following the introduction of Graduated Driver Licensing (GDL). Existing learner drivers have until 31 March 2027 to pass their Category B driving test before the new requirements apply.