Theory test appointments can be booked, and subject to three clear working days notice, be changed and canceled using the Driving Standards Agency online booking service or the telephone. You can also download an application form and apply by post.
The driving license you need
Before you can take your theory test youll need to make sure you have a valid provisional driving license. You can apply for a provisional driving license from the Driver and Vehicle Licensing Agency (DVLA). The application form D1 can be obtained from your local Post Office.
Once you have a valid provisional driving license you can book your theory test. Waiting times vary from region to region, but the target is that 95 per cent of
theory test candidates receive an appointment date within two weeks of their preferred date.
Booking Online
To book a theory test online you'll need:
1. Valid UK driving license
2. Valid debit or credit card for payment (Visa, MasterCard, Delta, Visa Electron, Switch/Maestro and Solo cards are accepted) booking by Phone
To book a theory test with an operator over the phone you'll need:
1. Valid UK driving license
2. Valid debit or credit card for payment (Visa, MasterCard, Delta, Visa Electron, Switch/Maestro and Solo cards are accepted)
You can book a theory test over the phone using the numbers below, from 8.00 am to 6.00 pm except on Bank Holidays. You can book a theory test over the phone on 0870 01 01 372, Monday to Friday except on Bank Holidays.
Booking by post
To book a theory test by post you will need an application form. Application forms are available online, on request from the Driving Standards Agency booking line or from theory and practical test centers. Payment can be made by Cheque or postal order, but cash payments are not accepted.
If you wish to change your theory test date, or cancel your test, you can either manage your test date using the online booking service by selecting 'change/cancel your theory test', or by telephoning the theory test booking line, using the numbers detailed above. You must give 3 full working days notice of change or cancellation to avoid losing your test fee.
When attending to sit your theory test you will be required to bring your theory test invitation letter and both parts of your valid provisional license. If you do not have a new style photographic license, you must bring additional photographic identification, in the form of a current, valid passport, along with your old style license.
If you do not bring the correct documentation to the theory test centre on the day of your test, you will not be allowed to sit the test and you will lose your booking fee. You are required to arrive at the test centre at least 15 minutes before the test start time.
At the end of the test you will be informed by the test centre staff whether you have passed or failed. If you pass, you will be given a theory pass certificate, which is valid for 2 years from the date of passing and is required to book your UK practical driving test. In the event that you fail you will be notified at the end of the test. To re-sit the test, you will then have to book your theory test again using one of the above booking procedures.
