Requesting a swap of examiner is possible in the UK, but it is tightly controlled. Below you will find a step-by-step guide that explains the policy, legitimate grounds, and what to do if issues surface on test day.

1. Understanding How Driving Examiners Are Assigned by DVSA

1.1 Standard allocation process at test centres

Most test centres use an automated rota managed by the Driver and Vehicle Standards Agency (DVSA). Examiners are assigned according to:
• Daily staffing levels
• Category of test (car, motorcycle, etc.)
• Planned breaks and observation sessions for quality assurance
You are only told your examiner’s name minutes before the practical begins, making informal “examiner shopping” impossible.

1.2 Factors that influence which examiner you get

Variables such as examiner availability, seniority, or whether you require a manual or automatic car route can all affect allocation. Special-needs flags on the booking system may also direct you to examiners trained in accessibility.

2. Valid Reasons to Request a Different Driving Examiner

2.1 Conflicts of interest or prior acquaintance

If you are related to, have a close friendship with, or have recently been instructed by an examiner, the DVSA views this as a potential conflict. You may request re-allocation to protect exam integrity.

2.2 Medical, disability or language accommodations

Learners who require a signer, interpreter, or an examiner familiar with particular medical protocols (e.g., autism guidance) can ask for a change. Provide details when you book or as soon as circumstances arise.

2.3 Alleged bias, discrimination or misconduct

Evidence of previous discriminatory remarks, aggressive behaviour, or breaches of the DVSA Code of Practice are taken seriously. Complaints should reference dates, witnesses and, where possible, written records.

3. Requesting a Different Examiner Before Test Day

3.1 Time limits and notice periods for change requests

• 5 working days’ notice is ideal for weekday car tests.
• 10 working days are recommended for motorcycle, lorry or bus tests.
Last-minute requests are considered only for urgent conflicts (e.g., examiner becomes a family member’s partner after you booked).

3.2 How to contact DVSA by phone, email or online form

The quickest route is to phone 0300 200 1122 (Mon–Fri, 8 am–4 pm). Alternatively, use the “change driving test” option in your GOV.UK account or email customerservices@dvsa.gov.uk. Select “DVSA change test” if using the drop-down menus.

3.3 Supporting evidence that strengthens your case

• Doctor’s letters for disability accommodations
• Screenshots of inappropriate social-media contact with an examiner
• Statement from your Approved Driving Instructor (ADI) confirming a conflict of interest
Attach clear copies; original documents are not required.

4. What to Do if Concerns Arise on the Day of Your Test

4.1 Speaking to the test-centre manager before the assessment starts

Arrive 15 minutes early. Calmly explain your concern and reference any existing complaint numbers. Managers can re-allocate an examiner if another is free; if not, you may be offered a free rebooking.

4.2 Making a formal complaint or appeal after the test

Unhappy post-test? Complete form CT17 within 5 working days or email complaints@dvsa.gov.uk. Be factual—DVSA will listen to in-car audio, route logs and CCTV where available. They can void a test, arrange a retest, or dismiss the complaint.

5. Likelihood of Approval: Statistics and Real-World Outcomes

5.1 DVSA data on examiner change requests

A 2022 Freedom of Information response showed 1,310 requests to change examiners; 286 (22 %) were approved. The top accepted reasons were medical accommodations (46 %), conflict of interest (32 %), and proven misconduct (11 %).

5.2 Case studies from UK learner drivers

• Yasmin, Birmingham: Granted a change after discovering her allocated examiner was a neighbour—DVSA approved within 48 hours.
• Owen, Bristol: Claimed bias but lacked evidence; request refused, test proceeded, he later passed.
These examples highlight that documented proof is crucial.

6. Plan B: Rescheduling or Using Driving Test Cancellation Services

6.1 Pros and cons of rearranging the practical test

Pros:
• Guarantees a fresh examiner.
• Offers more prep time.
Cons:
• £62 weekday fee if moved inside the cancellation window.
• Possible 3-month wait in busy areas, unless you use a driving test cancellation checker.

6.2 Ethical use of driving test cancellation checkers

Third-party apps scan GOV.UK for earlier slots. Choose services that:
• Comply with DVSA terms (no bots causing site overload).
• Limit daily queries.
• Refund if they fail to “find driving test cancellations” by an agreed date.

7. Common Myths About Changing Your Driving Examiner

7.1 “You can choose any examiner you like”

False. You can only cite valid grounds; personal preference or rumours about strict pass rates are insufficient.

7.2 Impact on pass rates and examiner attitudes

DVSA statistics show pass rates vary by only 2-3 % between examiners. Requesting a change, when justified, does not label you a trouble-maker.

8. Preparing for Success Regardless of Examiner

8.1 Techniques to manage test-day nerves

• Box breathing or 4-7-8 method in waiting room.
• Visualise key manoeuvres.
• Avoid caffeine overload and arrive early to acclimatise.

8.2 Mock tests with instructors to simulate different examiner styles

Ask your ADI to role-play strict and relaxed personas. Rotate routes, including dual carriageways and busy roundabouts, so a surprise examiner feels routine.

9. Key UK Contacts and Resources for Further Help

9.1 DVSA customer service and complaints team

• Booking, changes, complaints: 0300 200 1122
• Textphone: 0300 201 0072

9.2 Approved Driving Instructor (ADI) professional bodies

• ADINJC (National Joint Council)
• MSA GB (Motor Schools Association of Great Britain)

9.3 Helplines and accessibility support services

• Disability Rights UK: 0330 995 0400
• RNID Text Relay for hearing-impaired candidates
• Scope helpline: 0808 800 3333

10. FAQ

10.1 Do I have to pay to change my driving examiner?

No. If DVSA accepts your reason, the allocation is swapped at no cost. However, rescheduling the entire test may incur the standard fee.

10.2 Can I request a different examiner for my theory test?

Yes, but only for accessibility reasons (e.g., reader/scribe service). Conflicts of interest rarely arise because theory tests are computer-based.

10.3 Will the examiner know I asked to avoid them?

DVSA keeps requests confidential. An examiner removed from your booking will not be told why or even that a request came from you.

10.4 Can I appeal a failed test by claiming examiner bias?

You may lodge an appeal with a magistrates’ court within six months, yet the court cannot overturn the result—only order a free retest if bias is proven.

10.5 Does changing my examiner affect my waiting-list priority?

DVSA aims to keep your original slot. If no suitable examiner is available, you’ll be offered the earliest alternative date matching your availability.