Learner drivers are increasingly being targeted by fraudsters offering bogus driving lessons and fake “fast-tracked” driving tests, new figures reveal.

TSB reported a 211% increase in learner driver scam cases between January and August this year compared with 2024. Victims typically lose around £244, but one learner was conned out of £500 after paying up-front for lessons that never happened.

How learners are being caught out

• Fake websites are impersonating the DVSA, taking payments for driving tests that do not exist.
• Social media adverts are offering “fast-tracked” test slots, which are fake.
• Fraudsters are collecting up-front payments for lessons and disappearing.

The DVSA called the findings evidence of “a serious and growing problem” and urged anyone who sees suspicious accounts to report them.

TSB’s fraud expert Alex Robinson said scammers are deliberately targeting learners desperate to get on the road: “Fraudsters have really upped their attempts – with offers of lessons and fast-tracked tests that simply don’t exist.”

Backlog pressure makes learners vulnerable

The scams come against the backdrop of a record test backlog, with DVSA data showing that learners at 81% of test centres face waits of up to 24 weeks.

The backlog, originally caused by the pandemic, has been worsened by increased demand and early bookings. The government has pledged to add 10,000 extra tests a month to reduce waiting times.

For trainers, the message is clear: ensure pupils know how to book safely, and warn them that shortcuts could cost them hundreds of pounds.