New Blackpool driving test centre to boost examiner numbers and slots

The Driver and Vehicle Standards Agency (DVSA) has revealed the opening date for Blackpool's new permanent driving test centre. Scheduled to begin operation on 15th April 2026, the centre aims to offer increased testing resources compared to its predecessor.

This announcement follows the closure of the previous driving test site by its landlord on 26th May 2023, which resulted in DVSA temporarily relocating tests to ensure continuity. The new centre, located at Unit 8, The Pavilions, Avroe Crescent, Blackpool, FY4 2DP, will feature seven examiners with two additional examiners in training.

Richard Bradley, DVSA’s Operational Delivery Manager, commented:

"DVSA has been committed to providing a long-awaited, permanent driving test centre for the town after several years of using temporary premises.

“Our new site in Blackpool will be a modern space, which will benefit instructors, examiners and learners.

“We’d like to thank local instructors and learners for their patience while we worked to open this new centre.”

With the introduction of more examiners, DVSA aims to significantly reduce driving test waiting times across the UK in the upcoming months.

The final day of testing at South Shore Lawn Tennis Club will be 14th April, marking the transition to The Pavilions starting 15th April.

First for all the latest news from across the UK every hour on Hits Radio on DAB, at hitsradio.co.uk and on the Rayo app.