More than 16,000 learner drivers in the Region of Murcia are currently waiting to sit their practical driving test, according to the latest figures released on Monday. Driving schools say the situation has deteriorated further with the arrival of the summer holidays.

In summer 2025, more than 14,000 students were waiting to take the practical exam. One year on, that figure has risen by at least 2,000, and instructors expect it to increase again after the holiday period, when even more candidates complete their lessons.

Driving schools report that many young people, having finished the academic year, now have time to complete their final practice sessions and attempt the test. However, they say the system is overwhelmed, leading to mounting frustration among both students and teachers.

The Provincial Traffic Headquarters has insisted that there is “no problem” with the current arrangements. Even so, industry representatives argue that long waits mean candidates can no longer quickly rebook a test after failing, as was often possible in previous years.