Driving Test Swapping

Are you looking to swap your driving test slot at Northwich Driving Test Centre?  

The Driver & Vehicle Standards Agency has implemented a strict new security process. To ensure your driving test swap is successful and your data is protected, you must follow these official steps.

Driving instructors can no longer perform swaps directly.  However, Northwich & District Driving Instructors Association / NADDIA members are still here to help!  We can assist in finding a "swap partner" among our other pupils or through our network of local driving instructors.

1st October Driving Test Swap Changes

From 1st October 2026 - No need to call at the same time: You no longer need to be on the phone to the DVSA at the exact same moment as the person you're swapping with: 📞 First call: The first learner calls the DVSA to request the swap.  📞 Second call: The second learner calls the DVSA on the same working day to confirm it.

The Essential Rules

Official Channels Only: No apps, no third-party websites, no WhatsApp groups. Swaps must be done via the DVSA phone line.

The Candidate Must Call

You (the candidate) must lead the call. Your instructor or a parent can be present for support, but the DVSA must speak to you directly.

Like-for-Like

You can only swap identical driving test types, for example: Weekday for Weekday, Weekend for Weekend, or Extended for Extended.

Step-by-Step Guide to a Successful Driving Test Swap

• Preparation

Confirm the swap with the other candidate.  Check that your driving instructor is available for the new date and time. You only need the other person's Test Reference, Date, Time, and Location.  You do not need to share your names, license number, address or date of birth with them.

• Update Your Booking

Both candidates must log in to the DVSA system and ensure their own email and mobile number are correct. You can also add your driving instructor's PRN (Personal Reference Number) to the booking.  Speak with your driving instructor to see if they need this added. 

• The First Phone Call (Candidate 1)

The first candidate calls the DVSA on 0300 200 1122, between 8am and 5pm, Monday to Friday. When prompted, press the following keys to manage your practical driving test: 02, 1, 1, 2, then say “driving test swap”.

•  The Verification Process and Fraud Prevention (Candidate 1)

The DVSA will ask for your Driving Licence details, Address, and Date of Birth, together with your own Driving Test details. They may also ask for the payment card details used to book the test and details of any previous driving tests you have taken.

• Driving Test Swap Details

Now provide DVSA with the driving test you would like to swap with, you only need the other person's Test Reference, Date, Time, and Location, no other information due to data protection is required by you (candidate 1). 

• The Second Phone Call (Candidate 2)

The second candidate calls the DVSA on 0300 200 1122, between 8am and 5pm, Monday to Friday. When prompted, press the following keys to manage your practical driving test: 02, 1, 1, 2, then say “driving test swap”.

•  The Verification Process and Fraud Prevention (Candidate 2)

The DVSA will ask for your Driving Licence details, Address, and Date of Birth, together with your own Driving Test details. They may also ask for the payment card details used to book the test and details of any previous driving tests you have taken.

• Driving Test Swap Details

Now provide DVSA with the driving test you would like to swap with, you only need the other person's Test Reference, Date, Time, and Location, no other information due to data protection is required by you (Candidate 2). 

• Driving Test Swap Confirmation:

Once the DVSA swaps the driving tests, you will both receive an official confirmation email.

Stay Secure: Never share your personal details with strangers online. Only share Driving Test references, Date, Time and Location with your swap partner and your registered driving instructor.

Questions? Speak to your NADDIA driving instructor today! 🚗💨