Warning: Surge in Driving Lesson and Test Scams

Learner drivers are being warned about a sharp rise in scams related to driving lessons and test bookings. Lloyds Bank has highlighted an increasing number of fraudulent schemes targeting those eager to pass their driving test, often preying on their desperation to secure lessons and test slots quickly.

How the Scam Works

Fraudsters are using social media and messaging platforms like WhatsApp to offer fake driving lessons and test bookings. They often request upfront payments—such as £150 for a package of five lessons—but once the money is sent, they disappear without delivering any lessons.

Another common scam involves reselling driving test slots at highly inflated prices. With the ongoing backlog of driving tests, scammers use automated bots to secure test slots, which they then sell for as much as £195—far above the official DVSA test fee of £62.

The DVSA’s Response

The Driver and Vehicle Standards Agency (DVSA) is actively working to shut down fraudulent accounts and remove bot-secured test slots. However, these scams persist, making it crucial for learner drivers to stay vigilant.

How to Protect Yourself

To avoid falling victim to these scams, learners should follow these key steps:

• Verify Instructor Credentials – Always check that a driving instructor is DVSA-approved before booking lessons. You can search for approved instructors on the DVSA website.

• Book Through Official Channels – Only book tests and lessons through the official DVSA website or reputable driving schools.

• Be Wary of Unsolicited Offers – If someone contacts you out of the blue with a ‘too good to be true’ offer, be cautious, especially if they demand upfront payment.

What to Do If You’re Targeted

If you suspect you’ve been scammed, report the incident to your bank immediately. You can also contact Action Fraud to help prevent others from falling victim to similar scams.

For more details, visit the original article on the Driving Instructors Association website.