News story

Driving tests provided from 3 more Halfords stores

Plans to offer driving tests from Halfords stores in Ashton-under-Lyne, Bromsgrove and Hemel Hempstead have been given the go ahead.

This was published under the 2010 to 2015 Conservative and Liberal Democrat coalition government
Halfords

Driving tests from Halfords stores

Practical driving tests will be available from Halfords stores in:

  • Ashton-under-Lyne store every Tuesday and Thursday from Tuesday 4 June
  • Hemel Hempstead store every Wednesday and Friday from Wednesday 12 June
  • Bromsgrove store every Wednesday and Friday from Wednesday 19 June

All tests will be conducted by Driving Standards Agency (DSA) examiners.

Practical driving tests are already available from the Halfords store in Wellingborough and more branches are expected to start offering tests in coming months.

A more local services for candidates

Road Safety Minister Stephen Hammond said:

We are very pleased to be working with Halfords to provide a more local service for driving test candidates.

This is a great example of how we can work with partners in the public and private sector to provide a service that is convenient as well as being cost effective.

Halfords Commercial Director Paul McClenaghan, said:

Halfords is already a local destination for motorists, who come to us for a diverse range of automotive products and services.

We’re always seeking new ways in which to enhance our offer, so working with the Driving Standards Agency is a natural fit for the business and extends the help we are able to provide to motorists.

Working with public and private sector partners

As well as using conventional test centres, DSA is working with public and private sector partners to provide driving tests in areas that don’t have a local test centre.

DSA is also working with the fire service and universities; Nottingham Trent University and Salford fire station are both now offering practical driving tests.

Improving motoring services

The government recently consulted on proposals to improve the way all motoring services are provided.

The Motoring Services Strategy consultation outlined long term proposals to put customers firmly at the heart of the way motoring services are provided, so that they best serve the consumer while getting the best possible deal for the taxpayer.

The government’s response to the consultation is due to be published in the summer.

Published 7 May 2013