A step-by-step guide to booking your official DVSA theory test online. The process is quick. you'll be done in under 5 minutes.
£23
Test fee
GOV.UK
Official site only
5 min
To book
Have these details ready and the booking process will be quick and simple.
Your UK provisional driving licence number.
A credit or debit card to pay the £23 test fee.
To receive your booking confirmation and reference number.
Only use the official GOV.UK website. Unofficial sites charge extra fees.
Navigate to the official "Book your theory test" page. Only use GOV.UK. never third-party sites that charge extra.
Enter your provisional driving licence number. Make sure you have it to hand before starting.
Search by postcode to find your nearest centres. You'll see available dates for each location.
Select from available slots. Be flexible. popular times fill up fast. Early morning or midweek often has more availability.
Pay the £23 fee with a debit or credit card. You'll receive confirmation by email immediately.
Check your email for the booking confirmation. Save the reference number. you'll need it to manage your booking.
Arrive at the test centre at least 15 minutes early. You'll need your UK photocard provisional driving licence. Without it, you will not be able to take your test and you'll lose your fee.
50 questions in 57 minutes. You need 43/50 (86%) to pass.
14 video clips where you identify developing hazards. You need 44/75 to pass.
No licence = No test. Your £23 fee will not be refunded.
Test centre availability can be tight. Here's how to get the slot you want.
Midweek slots (Tuesday-Thursday) are often easier to find than weekends or Mondays.
Search by postcode and consider centres a bit further away. they may have earlier availability.
Log in regularly to check for last-minute cancellations, especially in the mornings.
Book 2-3 weeks ahead during quiet periods, or 4-6 weeks during school holidays and exam seasons.
Book a few weeks ahead, as centres get busy during school holidays and peak periods. However, last-minute cancellations do appear. check the site regularly if you need an earlier slot.
You can change or cancel for free with at least 3 clear working days' notice. Less notice means you lose your £23 fee. Manage your booking on GOV.UK.
No. You can start practical lessons before passing your theory. in fact, it helps because you can apply theory to real driving. However, you MUST pass your theory before booking your practical test.
Yes, you can call the DVSA on 0300 200 1122 (Monday to Friday, 8am to 4pm). However, online booking is usually faster and shows all available slots.
You need a valid UK provisional driving licence to book. If you hold an EU or international licence, check GOV.UK for the specific rules that apply to your situation.
Make sure you're scoring 43+ on mock tests before booking. When you're ready, use the official GOV.UK site.