A round up of this month's news

Theory test centre closures

Due to over-capacity within its network of theory test centres, DSA has decided to close 11 theory test centres.

The centres will close on 31 August 2011 and will merge with neighbouring theory test centres which also have over-capacity and which have good transport links.

The test centres that will close are: Basingstoke, Bath, Birkenhead, Clydebank, Colchester, Dunfermline, Durham, Motherwell, Runcorn, Solihull and Workington.

DSA relies for income on the fees it receives from customers and it has a duty to spend that money responsibly. Theory and practical test centres are entirely separate and delivery of the practical test remains unaffected.

Independent driving pass rates

DSA has published a three month review of pass rates following the introduction of independent driving in October 2010. The report shows that there has been little or no change in pass rates since the introduction of independent driving.

Changes to motorcycle tests and training

On 16 April, DSA changed the way that motorcycle related incidents are recorded, reported and dealt with.

DSA has also introduced a number of changes to the module 1 motorcycle test in advance of the findings from the government's review of the motorcycle test.

To find out more, visit the motorcycle news area of DSA's corporate website.

Driving test fee refunds

From 1 June 2011, DSA will no longer reimburse driving and riding test fees for any candidates who cancel their tests with less than three working days notice.

In the past, DSA has reimbursed fees in certain cases as a gesture of goodwill, but there is no legal obligation to do this and it costs the agency around £1million a year.

No longer reimbursing candidates who don't give the statutory three working days notice will help to keep the cost of the driving and riding tests to a minimum for all candidates.

Get in touch

For the latest DSA news and information visit dft.gov.uk/dsa

Information for candidates is available on direct.gov.uk/motoring and driver and rider trainers can visit businesslink.gov.uk/transport

Book and manage your test appointments at direct.gov.uk/drivingtest or businesslink.gov.uk/transport

A list of useful contact details can be found at dft.gov.uk/dsa

What do you think of this issue of Despatch ezine? Email your comments to pressoffice@dsa.gsi.gov.uk

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