Government Response

The Government responded to this petition on Wednesday 20th January 2021

Whilst Government guidance is clear that people should be staying at home, pupils can practise driving with members of their household or support bubble as part of an essential journey.

The COVID-19 pandemic has been an unprecedented challenge for us all. Our absolute priority right now is on tackling the spread of COVID-19. Following the announcement of national lockdown restrictions, all routine practical driving lessons and tests have been suspended. It is not possible to socially distance when in a confined space, such as a car, and in such close proximity to the instructor or examiner. The safety of examiners, instructors and candidates must always remain our priority.

Government guidance is very clear that people should be staying at home to save lives and protect the NHS unless the trip is essential. A journey solely for driver learning purposes is not considered essential.

However, current guidance states that pupils can practice driving with members of their household or support bubble as part of travel for work, education or other essential journeys. This position is the same in England, Scotland and Wales.

We fully appreciate the challenges this will cause learners but we need to take action to protect the NHS and save lives.

Department for Transport