Lloyds Bank has issued an urgent warning to its customers, particularly those who use certain accounts online, such as WhatsApp, Facebook, TikTok, and Instagram.
The bank has alerted all learners about a dramatic surge in scams targeting those seeking driving tests or lessons on these popular social media platforms.
Waiting periods for driving tests across England remain exceptionally lengthy, averaging approximately 22-23 weeks as of mid-2025. However, certain test centres may face delays stretching up to six months.
These prolonged waiting times stem primarily from increased demand following the pandemic and a surge in early test bookings, reports the Liverpool Echo.
Over the past six months, the number of scams has rocketed by a staggering 92%, with victims losing an average of £244. Fraudsters are targeting victims through a three-stage approach that originates on social media.
Lloyds Bank said: “Fraudsters are posing as driving schools and test centres on Facebook, Instagram and TikTok – then moving the conversation into WhatsApp. They’ll ask for money upfront by bank transfer. Then either vanish or demand even more to cover fees.”
Providing guidance, the post continued: “Always book through trusted sites: Check instructors on the DVSA website. Book tests on Gov.uk. Pay by card or a secure service that protects your money.”
As a final point, it added: “Share this to protect your family and friends – and keep your money safe.”
Lloyds Bank has detailed how fraudsters are operating to help customers avoid falling victim. The bank warns that scammers typically advertise discounted driving lessons on social media platforms, primarily Facebook, often falsely associating themselves with legitimate driving schools.
Subsequently, you’ll receive a WhatsApp message requesting a £150 deposit for your lessons, plus an extra £100 to cover insurance costs. However, when the day of your first driving lesson comes around, the instructor is nowhere to be seen, leaving you out of pocket.
Another underhanded method involves fraudsters offering a specific date for a driving test, only providing the ‘details’ after you’ve paid. On the day of your test, you turn up only to discover there’s no booking, and you’re turned away, rendering all the stress and money spent utterly futile.
This warning from Lloyds follows a separate alert issued by the RAC last year concerning the exploitation of learners by a ‘driving test black market’. With lengthy waiting lists for practical tests persisting and available slots becoming highly coveted resources, fraudsters are capitalising on learners desperate to gain their driving qualifications but struggling to schedule lessons and tests.
It can be challenging to determine if an instructor is a genuine Approved Driving Instructor (ADI). The signs may not be clear, and everything you’ve seen or experienced before booking seems safe and reliable. If you’re unsure, it’s always wise to check the GOV website for instructor details, or contact the driving school directly.
If you believe you’ve fallen victim to a scam, reach out to your bank right away to stop any transactions and report the fraud. After that, notify Action Fraud at 0300 123 2040 for a broader investigation in England and Wales. If you’re in immediate danger, dial 999; otherwise, you can call 101 for police assistance. You might also find it helpful to contact the 159 number, and don’t hesitate to connect with support charities like Victim Support for emotional help.
