Emergency Alert Test – What Drivers Need to Know

On Sunday 7 September 2025 at 3pm, the UK Government will carry out a national emergency alert test. Mobile phones across the country will vibrate, make a loud siren sound for around ten seconds, and display a test message for around twenty seconds.

The Emergency Alert system is designed to warn people about life-threatening situations such as severe flooding or terror attacks. While this test is only a practice, it’s important for drivers and learners to understand how it works.

What happens during the emergency alert test?

• A loud siren-like sound will play for about 10 seconds

• Your phone will vibrate and display a message on screen

• The alert will sound even if your phone is on silent

You do not need to take any action when the alert appears – it is only a test.

Advice for driving lessons on 7 September

If you’re taking a driving lesson around this time:

• Turn your phone off before the lesson starts

• Ask your instructor or pupil to do the same

• This avoids being distracted by the emergency alert test

Remember – it is illegal to use a hand-held phone while driving. If an alert comes through while you are driving, ignore it and continue as normal. Only check your phone once you have stopped in a safe and legal place.

Why is the test important?

The emergency alert system has already been used in the UK during major storms and other dangerous incidents. By testing the system regularly, the government ensures it works properly and that the public knows what to expect if a real emergency happens.

Can I opt out of emergency alerts?

While emergency alerts are recommended for safety, you can opt out on your phone if necessary (for example, if you use a concealed phone). On most devices, you’ll find this under settings → notifications → emergency alerts.

iPhone

To opt out:

1. Go to your settings and select the ‘notifications’ menu.
2. Scroll to the bottom.
3. Turn off ‘severe alerts’ and ‘extreme alerts’.

Android phones

To opt out:

1. Search your settings for ‘emergency alerts’.
2. Turn off ‘severe alerts’ and ‘extreme alerts’.