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The Competition and Markets Authority (CMA) has, for the first time, issued a penalty in relation to its work to clamp down on illegal online pricing practices. The move follows the Authority having strengthened consumer powers, which came into force in April 2025.
The CMA found that drip pricing was being used by two driving schools when online bookings were being placed. Drip pricing is a practice where mandatory fees – in this case a £3 booking fee – are not shown in upfront pricing. The CMA has ordered £760,000 to be paid back to affected customers, in addition to a £4.2m fine.
BVRLA Members should review the information from the CMA against their own pricing practices. Drip pricing is a banned practice and other banned practices can be found in the CMA guidance: Unfair commercial practices - GOV.UK.
The CMA has also referenced ongoing investigations into firms suspected of posting misleading or fake reviews.
CMA orders the AA and BSM driving schools to refund learner drivers over drip pricing - GOV.UK
