How To Book Or Apply For Driving Theory Test Online In The UK

Booking your driving theory test can feel overwhelming, especially for learner drivers. But don’t worry. It’s a straightforward process that can be completed online with ease. With a little planning and preparation, you’ll be well on your way to getting your car or bike theory test booked. Here’s a breakdown of the steps involved.

Steps To Book Your Driving Theory Test Online

Booking your driving theory test is easier than you think. Here are some quick steps on how to book driving theory test.

1. Determine Your Eligibility

Before you start, make sure you meet the requirements to take the theory test. Typically, you’ll need a valid provisional driving licence which you can apply for if you’re 15 years and 9 months old.

2. Choose Your Test Centre

The next step is to pick a test centre that’s convenient for you. There are 150 test centres across the UK, so you should be able to find one that suits your needs. You can usually find the nearest theory test centre and its location on the government’s driving test booking service.

3. Book Your Test

Once you’ve picked your nearest test centre, it’s time to book your theory test. You can usually do this online. You’ll need to provide your provisional licence number, email, and a debit/credit card to pay the £23 test fee. Try to book theory test online in advance, especially if you’re aiming for a specific date or time. You can book a test up to 24 weeks later and there’s no waiting or cancellation list.

4. Prepare For Your Theory Test

Now that you’ve booked your test, it’s time to start studying. There are plenty of resources available to help you prepare for the theory test, such as Just Pass’s theory test training, theory test books, and advice from driving instructors. To pass the overall test, you need to score at least 43 out of 50 on the multiple-choice section and 44 out of 75 on the hazard perception test.

What Documents Are Needed For Driving Theory Test?

Don’t turn up for your theory test empty-handed. To sit your test, you’ll need to bring specific documents. If you forget, you won’t be allowed to take the test, and your test fee will be wasted.

So, what do you need?

• Photocard Provisional Driving Licence: This is the golden ticket. Make sure it’s valid and with you.
• Confirmation Email: Keep your booking confirmation email with you as it contains important details like test date, location, and time.
• Old-Style Paper Licence: If you have one of these, bring it along with a valid passport.

That’s it. Just these two simple documents are all you need to prove your identity and right to take the test, and to eventually receive your theory test certificate.

How Many Mistakes Are Allowed On A Theory Test?

After how to book a theory test in UK, a common query is about the allowed mistakes in the test. The theory test isn’t just one exam; it’s actually made up of two parts: Hazard Perception and Multiple Choice. Each part has its own rules about how many mistakes you can make.

• Hazard Perception: This part tests your ability to spot potential hazards on the road, such as vehicles creating dangerous situations. You’ll watch some hazard perception clips and click when you see something that might cause a problem. The theory test pass mark for this is 44 or more points out of 75.
• Multiple Choice: This is the classic test format. You’ll get 50 questions and need to answer at least 43 correctly to pass. So, you have a bit of wiggle room with seven incorrect answers.

Important Note: While you can make a certain number of mistakes in each part, you need to pass both theory tests to pass the overall test. So, even if you ace the Hazard Perception, you still need to do well in the other driving tests.

How Long Does the Driving Theory Test Last?

So, you’ve booked your theory test and you’re wondering how much time you’ll need to set aside. Let’s break it down.

You’ll have 57 minutes to answer 50 multiple-choice questions about road rules, signs, and safety. Don’t worry if you finish early – you can leave once you finish the questions.

Then comes the hazard perception test. This is a bit different. You’ll watch 14 video clips of real-life driving situations and you need to click a button when you spot a potential hazard. This part usually takes around 15 minutes.

So, in total, you can expect to spend about 72 minutes at the theory test centre. But these are just estimates. Some people finish quicker, while others might need the full-time.

Don’t stress about the time. Just focus on answering the questions to the best of your ability.

How Much Driving Theory Test Cost In The UK?

Booking your DVSA car theory test isn’t going to break the bank, but it’s definitely worth knowing what you’re in for.

The good news is the cost of driving theory test in UK is the same no matter where you live in the UK. You’ll pay a flat fee of £23 to sit your theory test. This covers both parts: the multiple-choice questions and hazard perception.

It’s important to note that this is the official price set by the government. Some dodgy websites might try to charge you more, so always book your test directly through the official channels to avoid getting ripped off.

Remember, this is just the cost of the test itself. You’ll need to factor in other expenses like theory test revision materials, driving lessons, and potentially retaking the test if you don’t pass the first time.

A top tip: Consider the cost of retaking the test if you fail. It might be worth investing in some good quality revision materials and be driving theory test ready to increase your chances of passing the first time and saving yourself some money in the long run.

How To Change Driving Theory Test Date Online?

Need to change your DVSA driving theory test date? Don’t worry, it’s usually pretty straightforward. Here’s how to do it online:

Changing Your Theory Test Date Online

• Visit The GOV Website: You’ll need to access the GOV website where you booked your test initially and click the Start Now button. This is the government’s driving test booking service.

• Enter Your Details: Enter your theory test booking reference number and UK driving licence number when asked.

• Choose a new date and time: Change or reschedule your appointment at any DVSA theory test centre. You’ll be presented with available slots. Select the date and time that suits you best. Be aware there might be restrictions on how far in advance or how close to the original date you can change it.
• Confirm the change: Double-check all the details of your new appointment before confirming. Once confirmed, you should receive an email or text message with the updated details.

Important Things To Remember

• Time limits: There’s usually a time limit on how early or late you can change your test date. Check the rules to avoid any issues.

• Fees: Some changes might incur a fee, especially if you’re changing the date within 3 full working days of the test date.

• Availability: Theory test appointments can be booked up quickly, so be flexible with your dates and times.

• Confirmation: Always keep a copy of your confirmation email or text message.

 

If you’re struggling to change your test online, don’t hesitate to contact the Driver and Vehicle Standards Agency (DVSA) directly. They can assist you with any issues or provide alternative methods for changing your appointment.

Planning ahead can save you a lot of stress. Allow plenty of time to reschedule your test if needed, and always double-check the details before confirming.

Conclusion

That was all on how to book a driving theory test. Booking the theory test is just the start of your driving journey. The next step is to study diligently to pass the theory test successfully. With commitment and suitable tools, such as resources from driving schools, theory test books, and driving instructor advice, the road to success becomes easier. Understand your theory test well, and you’ll be ready to proceed to the practical driving test. Best of luck!