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.
There are around 150 test centres in the UK where you can take your driving theory test. When booking your driving theory test, you can visit the GOV website and find your nearest centre. You will be asked to enter your postcode, and the website will provide you with a list of test centres in your area and the availability.
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.
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.
The driving theory test has many different sections that require students to practice and familiarise themselves with the structure so they are prepared for the day of the test.
The Learn To Drive With RED app has it all. You can complete mock tests that cover the DVSA questions and hazard perception clips, learn all about the highway code and the variety of road signs and their meanings.
RED Driver Training has you covered and is here to help you pass.
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. Check out the GOV website for the most up-to-date pricing.
You can book your theory test up to 6 weeks in advance, however, it is important to note that some test centres might be harder to book due to that area having high demand and limited availability. It’s recommended to book as soon as possible so you can get the date and time that works for you.
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