Booking a driving theory test in the UK is an essential step in obtaining your full driving licence. The theory driving test is designed to assess your knowledge of the Highway Code, road signs and rules of the road. Booking your driving theory test online can be completed in a few simple steps:
Before you book your theory test, you must ensure that you meet the eligibility criteria. To be eligible, you must hold a valid UK provisional driving licence.
You can apply for your provisional licence before you turn 17 however, you have to wait until you’re 17 years old to take the theory test. If you haven’t got your provisional licence yet then you can follow our helpful guide on applying for a licence.
You can take your driving theory test at any of the 150 test centres across the UK. You can find your nearest test centre by visiting the official government website. You will be asked to enter your postcode, and the website will provide you with a list of test centres in your area.
Once you have chosen your test centre, you can book your driving theory test online through the government website. You will need to provide:
Beware of unofficial third-party websites that charge to book the test for you. Ensure you’re using the .gov.uk website. Some sites will charge as much as £50 or more for something that you can do yourself for FREE within a few minutes.
After booking your test, it is essential to prepare for it. The driving theory test consists of two parts: the multiple-choice section and the hazard perception section. The multiple-choice section consists of 50 questions, and you must score at least 43 to pass. The hazard perception section consists of 14 video clips, and you must score at least 44 out of 75 to pass.
To find out more on how to prepare for your driving theory test, please visit the link below.
Tired of flipping through dull textbooks and struggling with complicated rules? Say hello to stress-free learning with our cutting-edge Driving Theory App! Designed to make learning fun, effective, and convenient. Get the knowledge you need to pass first-time!
You can change your theory driving test booking online at the GOV website. This service allows you to change your test centre as well as move the date of your test.
It’s important to note that changes must be made at least 3 working days before your test date to avoid making another payment. Sundays and public holidays are not considered working days.
However, if you’re dealing with an illness or injury and can provide medical evidence, or if you’re dealing with a bereavement or your test appointment clashes with a school exam, you may rebook your test at no extra charge. Please note that in these instances, you won’t be issued with a refund.
To cancel your theory driving test booking, you can follow these steps:
If you are unable to cancel your appointment online, you can call DVSA customer support on 0300 200 1122 from Monday to Friday, 8 am to 4 pm. Note that you must cancel your test at least 3 clear working days before the test date to receive a full refund. If you cancel within 3 working days of the test date, you will not receive a refund.
To book, you need your provisional driving license number. On the test day, bring your provisional driving license (both the photo card and counterpart if you have one) as well as any confirmation of your booking.
The cost varies depending on location and type of vehicle. For cars in the UK, the test costs £23.
It’s recommended to book as early as possible, especially if you're in a busy area. Appointment availability can range from a few days to several weeks out, depending on the location and time of year.
The test duration is around 1 hour and 15 minutes in total—57 minutes for the multiple-choice section (50 questions) and 20 minutes for the hazard perception test.
The theory test pass certificate is valid for two years. If you don’t pass your practical driving test within this time, you’ll need to retake the theory test.
Yes, the DVSA provides accommodations for candidates with disabilities or learning needs, such as extra time or a one-on-one assistant. Request these accommodations when booking your test.
The UK driving theory test case studies section is designed to assess your ability to apply your knowledge of road rules and safe driving practices in real-world scenarios. Learn more with RED.
Learn more
The Hazard Perception Test is crucial to the overall driving theory test, as it is designed to test a candidate’s ability to spot and respond to potential hazards while driving. At RED, we have everything to help you prepare for your theory test - find out more.
Find out more
The DVSA developed the Official Highway Code to protect vulnerable road users, and to minimise the number of road accidents and casualties. Find out more on what is included and how to start practising.
Find out more