The problem is a huge backlog of driving tests. Learners are waiting over four months on average for a test to take place; many places in Britain have it worse (see map). In July all but one test centre in London was booked solid for the next 24 weeks, which is as far out as tests are available, according to data obtained by The Economist under the Freedom of Information Act. At current rates, the backlog will take almost five years to clear.