Driving examiner strike in Essex

D riving test candidates booked to take their test on 30 November are urged to turn up at Tilbury, Basildon, Chelmsford & Brentwood test centres despite the threat of industrial action by examiners who are members of the Public and Commercial Services (PCS) union.

Not all examiners are members of the PCS union and therefore the DSA cannot be sure of those driving examiners who will not turn up for work.  Therefore candidates are urged to attend so that practical tests can be delivered if possible.  Theory tests are not affected and will be taking place as planned.

Candidates who turn up but are unable to take their tests because of industrial action will not have to contact DSA to re-book.  They should hear from the DSA with a new date within five to ten working days. 

If no examiner is available for a test, a new date will be rebooked automatically by DSA and the candidate will be sent details of the new test.  If candidates fail to attend they will not be able to claim out-of-pocket expenses if their tests are cancelled - and they will need to rebook their own tests.

DSA's customer service centre for practical tests might also be affected by the strike action.  Customers who wish to book a practical test will still be able to use our internet booking service.