To ask the Minister for Infrastructure to detail the timeframe for the resumption of practical driving tests for taxi drivers.

As part of the phased resumption of practical driving tests, the Driver and Vehicle Agency (DVA) has reinstated some driver testing services, where testing can be done safely in line with Public Health Agency advice and guidance on social distancing requirements. This includes motorcycle driver testing from 6 July and tests for drivers of buses, tractors and module 4 CPC tests for lorry, bus and coach drivers from 20 July. Practical car and lorry driving tests resumed from 1 September 2020, initially prioritising those requests from key workers followed by those customers whose tests were cancelled due to lockdown. The online booking service for car and motorcycle practical driving tests is reopening to other customers from 5 October.

The DVA is working hard to reinstate other practical driving tests as soon as possible, including the practical driving test for taxi drivers. However, due to the longer duration of this test, it must be fully risk assessed to ensure it can be delivered safely in line with PHA advice and guidance. Once this service can resume safely I will ensure this is clearly communicated to all affected customers.