The driver theory testing service is operated as a public-private partnership project. A key performance standard contained in the customer charter for the driver theory testing service is that tests are to be offered at centres undertaking more than 250 tests per annum within two weeks of a candidate's preferred date. In other less used centres, tests are to be offered within two months of the preferred date at the chosen centre. Persons booking a test by telephone to the call centre are given their test appointment details at that stage. This is normally followed up with written confirmation of their appointment details within 24 hours or no later than three working days. Persons submitting postal applications are notified in writing of their appointment details within the same timescale.
The driver theory testing service has procedures in place for dealing with complaints, including any in relation to late receipt of notification of test appointments, which may be addressed to the customer service manager at PO box 144, Drogheda , County Louth. The granting of further tests without payment of fees would be a matter for determination by the driver theory testing service as part of the complaints consideration process. The service commenced on 11 June 2001 and, up to the end of October 2001, some 30,600 tests had been carried out. To date, I understand that the service has received some 18 formal written complaints regarding late receipt of notification of test appointments.
