Lloyds Bank has issued a warning to its customers about a rising wave of scams targeting individuals seeking driving lessons and test dates. Fraudsters are exploiting long waiting times for driving tests in the UK, taking advantage of learners’ frustration.
According to a report by Devon Live, the scams have increased in frequency, with many victims losing hundreds of pounds. The bank’s alert highlights how scammers use various online platforms, including social media and messaging apps, to deceive unsuspecting customers. These fraudulent operations have become increasingly sophisticated, preying on those eager to secure their driving qualifications amid lengthy delays.
A 92% Surge in Driving Test Scams
Scammers have been exploiting social media platforms like Facebook, Instagram, TikTok, and WhatsApp to reach potential victims. According to recent reports, the number of driving test scams has increased by 92% in the last six months alone.
This surge is largely driven by the prolonged delays in booking driving tests, which, in some areas, can stretch up to six months. As of mid-2025, the average waiting time for a test in England is between 22 to 23 weeks, with some centres seeing even longer waits.
Fraudsters are aware of this backlog and have tailored their schemes to appeal to frustrated learners eager to get their licences. Lloyds Bank has identified a worrying pattern where scammers initially offer discounted driving lessons or test bookings on social media.
Once a victim expresses interest, they are moved to a private WhatsApp conversation, where the scammer requests payment—typically a deposit of £150 for lessons, plus an additional £100 for insurance costs.
How Scammers Operate
These fraudulent operations often begin innocuously enough, with scammers posing as legitimate driving schools or test centres. They advertise tempting offers on social media, claiming to have access to quick driving test dates or discounted lessons.
Unfortunately, once victims make the payment, they never see the services they paid for. In some cases, victims are even asked for more money, claiming it’s needed for additional fees or insurance, only to find that the instructor doesn’t show up on the day of the lesson or the driving test doesn’t exist.
Lloyds Bank has outlined how these scams typically unfold:
“Fraudsters are posing as driving schools and test centres on Facebook, Instagram & TikTok – then moving the conversation into WhatsApp. They’ll ask for money upfront by bank transfer, and then either vanish or demand even more to cover fees,” the bank said in a statement.
Victims, frustrated by the delays in securing legitimate tests, find themselves vulnerable to these deceitful tactics. The bank warns that these fraudsters are also taking advantage of the driving test black market, a term that was highlighted by the RAC in a 2024 report. With driving test slots scarce, scammers are capitalizing on the desperation of learners.
Protect Yourself from Scams
Lloyds Bank has issued clear advice to help consumers avoid falling victim to these scams. It’s crucial to book driving lessons and tests only through trusted, official channels. The bank urges customers to check driving instructors on the DVSA (Driver and Vehicle Standards Agency) website, and to make test bookings via the official Gov.uk platform.
Furthermore, it’s safer to pay by credit card or other secure payment methods that offer fraud protection.
As Lloyds Bank advises,
“Always book through trusted sites: Check instructors on the DVSA website. Book tests on Gov.uk. Pay by card or a secure service that protects your money.”
“Additionally, sharing this information with friends and family can help spread awareness and protect others from falling victim to these scams.”
By following these steps, individuals can reduce their risk of becoming victims of fraud and ensure their driving test bookings are legitimate. Additionally, sharing this information with friends and family can help spread awareness and protect others from falling victim to these scams.
