How to book your theory test: a 6 step guide

Booking your theory test is a small but important step on your journey to getting a full UK driving licence. It might feel a bit daunting at first, but once you know what to expect, it’s actually quite straightforward.

This guide walks you through everything you need to know: from eligibility and booking, to what to bring on the day and how to prepare. Let’s get started.

What's covered:

• What is the theory test?
• Make sure you’re eligible
• What you’ll need to book
• How to book your theory test
• When can I book my theory test?
• What to bring on the day
• If you need extra support
• Finally, make sure you're test ready!
• FAQs

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What is the theory test?

Before you can book your practical driving test, you’ll need to pass the theory test. It’s designed to check your understanding of the rules of the road and your ability to spot hazards while driving.

The test is split into two parts:

• Multiple-choice questions (based on the Highway Code)

• Hazard perception (video clips where you identify developing hazards)

You’ll need to pass both parts to move forward.

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1. Make sure you’re eligible

You can book your theory test once you've turned 17 - unless you receive the higher rate of the mobility component of Disability Living Allowance (DLA) - in which case you're allowed to take the theory test from 16. You'll also need:

• A valid UK provisional driving licence

• Have lived in England, Wales or Scotland for at least 185 days in the past 12 months

2. What you’ll need to book

Booking your theory test is quick and easy. Make sure you have the following ready:

• Your provisional licence number

• A valid email address ( if you don't have an email address, you'll have to book over the phone)

• A credit or debit card to pay the fee - £23 for cars and motorcycles

3. How to book your theory test

The safest and cheapest way to book is through the official DVSA website.

If you don’t have access to the internet or an email address, you can also book through the DVSA by phone 0300 200 1122 (Lines are open Mon–Fri, 8am–4pm).

Then, you'll be able to pick:

• A test centre near you

• A date and time that suits your schedule

Once you’ve booked, you’ll get a confirmation email with all the details. You'll need this on the day, so make sure it's somewhere accessible.

Tip: When booking your theory test online, make sure you’re using the official DVSA website. There are many third-party websites that charge additional booking fees on top of the test fee.

4. When can I book my theory test?

You can usually book your theory test up to six weeks in advance. Remember though, availability depends on how busy your chosen test centre is. It’s no secret that theory and practical test backlogs have been a common issue recently, with many learners stuck waiting for a slot.

Tip: Book early if you can. Popular centres fill up fast, especially during school holidays or weekends.

5. What to bring on the day

When you arrive at the test centre, make sure you bring:

• Your provisional licence - make sure it's valid and up to date

• Your confirmation email - this acts as proof of your booking and includes important information like the test centre, date, and time.

Make sure you bring everything you need on the day. If you forget the required documents, you won’t be able to sit the test and probably won't get your money back.

6. If you need extra support

If you have a disability, health condition, or reading difficulty, you can request additional support when booking your theory test.

The DVSA offers a range of adjustments to help make the test more accessible, including:

• Extra time to complete the test

• Voiceover options in English or Welsh

• A reader who can read the questions aloud

• British Sign Language (BSL) interpretation

• Separate rooms or quieter environments, if needed

These options are designed to make sure everyone has a fair chance to succeed. You’ll be asked about support needs during the booking process, so just follow the prompts and provide any relevant details.

Finally, make sure you're test ready!

There's no worse feeling than turning up to an exam unprepared. Before your theory test, make sure you've prepared thoroughly - this includes the Highway Code, practise mock questions, and hazard perception clips. A bit of preparation goes a long way, and you'll pass in no time. Happy studying!

Next guide: The 5 best theory test apps for learners in 2025 → 

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