DRIVING TESTS Fees set to increase

Taking a driving test is to become more expensive from the start of April.

The Driving Standards Agency (DSA) has said that both the theory and practical elements for car drivers will increase in price. The practical test will go up by 8 to 56.50, while the theory test will rise by 1.50 to 30.

The increases were first mooted last summer but have now been confirmed.

Car learners aren't alone. From 29 September, motorcycle riders will see the cost of their practical test shoot up from 60 to 80. The sharp increase is partly justified by the inclusion of a new off- road element in the examination, which learners will have to pass before being allowed to take the road test.

"We are already planning to make efficiency savings of 4.8m this year and a further 6m in 2008-09," said Rosemary Thew, the DSA's chief executive. "But to make sure we continue to offer an excellent service, the fees must match our costs."

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