Taking a test to earn a driving licence might become much harder in the near future as a strike threatens testing operations for the Driver and Vehicle Standards Agency (DVSA).

The driving examiners are set to be balloted for strike action. This comes as plans were announced to increase the number of tests from seven a day to eight, the union says.

Officials said adding another test into an already tight schedule will have a damaging effect on an examiner’s performance and increase the risk of accidents.

If the change was to happen, the union said a survey of its members showed large numbers would leave the profession.

PCS general secretary Mark Serwotka said: “DVSA have shown scant regard for our members’ concerns over safety regarding their plans to increase the driving test rate for examiners.

“Our members are dedicated civil servants and enjoy doing such a vital role that keeps society functioning.

“For hundreds of them to now be saying that they would leave the profession if this new test schedule was introduced shows how serious the situation is.

“We are open to constructive talks with management to resolve this dispute, but they need to understand that PCS will fully support any action our members decide to take, up to and including strike action.”

Nearly 1,000 PCS members are involved in the dispute in England, Wales and Scotland.

DVSA chief executive Loveday Ryder said: “The country has endured so much as a result of COVID-19 so it is disappointing that the Public and Commercial Services union has chosen to take this course of action.

“Safely reducing the current driving test waiting times is a matter of national importance so people can access employment, education, health and social activities.

“As part of our plans to increase the number of tests available we have trialled examiners carrying out testing in an eight-test framework during their normal working hours.

“The safety and wellbeing of our customers, the general public and colleagues is paramount and we continue to work with them and PCS on these proposed changes.”