NOVICE drivers across the borough will be able to get back behind the wheel as driving tests and lessons are set to resume in tier 3 - with additional restrictions in place.

In tier 3, the Driving Vehicle Standards Agency (DVSA) is reducing the number of tests an examiner can conduct each day.

From this week, examiners will only carry out five tests per day, meaning some drivers may find their tests postponed or cancelled.

Anyone whose test was cancelled during the most recent lockdown will have to rebook.

If your theory test pass certificate has expired during the lockdown you will need to resit the theory test before taking a practical test.

Any driver in tier 3 who cannot wear a face mask during their test may also have their test delayed unless an examiner is willing to conduct the test with a candidate not wearing a mask.

A spokesperson for South Yorkshire Safer Roads Partnership said: “To reduce the risk of spreading the Covid-19 infection, the DVSA has introduced new rules around driving tests.

“Candidates and instructors must wear a face covering unless they have a good reason not to.

“These reasons include a physical or mental illness or impairment, or a disability that means you cannot put on, wear or remove a face covering, or if putting on, wearing or removing a face covering would cause you severe distress.

“If you arrive for your test without a mask and do not have a valid reason for not wearing one your test will be cancelled.

“Candidates should arrive at the test centre no more than five minutes before their test and should ensure that their car interior is cleaned before the examiner gets in.

“Windows in the test vehicle must be kept open at all times.

Instructors are not allowed to remain in the car during the test but can listen to post-test feedback as long as social distancing is maintained.

“You should not attend for your test if you or someone you live with has coronavirus symptoms or if you have been told by the track and trace service that you’ve been in contact with someone who has the virus.”

For more information, visit the government website here.