Oldham Council eases taxi testing pressures with new DVSA centre option
- Perry Richardson
- 19 hours ago
- 1 min read
Oldham Council has introduced a major change to its vehicle testing system to improve efficiency and reduce waiting times for local taxi and private hire drivers.
From this month, drivers will be able to complete their mid-year vehicle tests at any DVSA-approved test centre rather than being limited to the council’s own facility. The move follows discussions with the trade and aims to relieve the strain on the council’s testing capacity.
The number of licensed drivers registered with Oldham Council has increased significantly, creating high demand for test appointments. Officials expect the change to free up around 2,000 test slots a year, allowing quicker processing for new licences, renewals and re-tests.
All first-time vehicle inspections will continue to take place at the council’s testing site to maintain safety and compliance standards.
Oldham Council confirmed that its Licensing Department will contact affected drivers directly in the coming weeks to outline the new arrangements.
Cllr Elaine Taylor, Cabinet Member for Housing and Licensing, said: “We’ve seen a significant rise in the number of licensed vehicles across Oldham, and we know how vital it is for drivers to stay on the road and earning.
“These changes will make a real difference by freeing up testing capacity, cutting waiting times, and ensuring vehicles remain safe and roadworthy. It’s about being practical, responsive, and forward-thinking.”
Cllr Sajed Hussain, Chair of the Licensing Committee, said: “This change in policy is another example of how the council and the Licensing Authority are working to grow the taxi trade in a safe and effective way, while maintaining excellent standards for our residents.”
