How do you Book a Theory Test?
Reviewed & fact checked
By: Verity Hogan - Finance Editor
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Book your theory test quickly and easily online at GOV.UK, or at nidirect if you live in Northern Ireland.
The theory test checks your Highway Code knowledge and hazard perception before you can take the practical test. To book, you’ll need your provisional driving licence details, a debit or credit card to pay the £23 fee, and an email address for confirmation.
Book online using the official sites below
Official government website – opens in new tab
Came here to change or cancel a booking? Change your theory test date.
How much does a theory test cost?
England, Scotland and Wales
- Apply online: £23
- Apply by phone: £23
Northern Ireland
- Apply online: £23
- Apply by phone: £23
Who can book a theory test?
You can book a theory test if you are:
At least 17 years old (or 16 if you receive the enhanced mobility component of PIP)
The holder of a valid UK provisional licence
(If you have a provisional licence, you have already proved you live in the UK.)
Screenshot: How to book your theory test
1. Check you are eligible
You must be at least 17, or 16 if you get the enhanced mobility rate of PIP, and hold a UK provisional licence.
2. Get your details ready
Have your provisional licence number, postcode, an email address you can access now, and make sure your name and address match your licence. If you need adjustments, note these now, for example extra time, BSL video, voiceover, a reader, a hearing loop, or a separate room.
3. Start the booking on GOV.UK or nidirect, the cost is £23
You will choose your test centre and see available dates during the process.
4. Pay online
Use a debit or credit card, then keep the confirmation email safe.
5. Stick to official websites
Only use GOV.UK or nidirect, third-party sites may charge extra with no benefit.
Before you confirm, double-check details
Make sure your name, date, time, test centre, and email are correct.
How to book your theory test online at GOV.UK
Most learners book using the official GOV.UK theory test booking service.
During the process, you’ll choose your test centre and preferred date.
You’ll need:
Your provisional licence number
A debit or credit card to pay the £23 fee
An email address for booking confirmation
Book a theory test at GOV.UK
Official government website – opens in new tab
Choosing a theory test centre
When you book your theory test online, you’ll select your test centre as part of the booking process.
The system shows centres near your postcode, with available dates and times.
If you want to check locations first, you can use the find a theory test centre tool to see addresses and directions.
England, Scotland and Wales
Find a theory test centre at GOV.UK
Official government website – opens in new tab
Northern Ireland
For Northern Ireland residents, nidirect lists six approved theory test centres: Belfast, Londonderry, Ballymena, Newry, Omagh, and Portadown.
See the list of NI theory test centres
Official government website – opens in new tab
How long will it take to get a theory test date?
Waiting times depend on how busy your chosen test centre is.
At quieter centres, you might get a date within a few weeks. In busier places, it can take several months.
When you book online, the GOV.UK system shows the earliest available dates in real time, so you can compare centres and choose the option that gets you a test soonest.
If you want an earlier date, try nearby centres when you book, or check back at quieter times, new slots appear during the day.
How to book a theory test in Northern Ireland
If you live in Northern Ireland, you must book with DVA via nidirect.
Book a theory test online at nidirect
Official government website – opens in new tab
Phone bookings are also available through the DVA.
See the DVA contact details →
Official government website – opens in new tab
Book your theory test by phone GOV.UK
If you cannot book online, you can book by phone:
- DVSA (England, Scotland, Wales): 0300 200 1122
- Email: theorycustomerservices@dvsa.gov.uk
- Open: Monday to Friday, 8am to 4pm
You will need:
Your full name, address, and date of birth
Your provisional licence number
Phone bookings are possible but less reliable.
Lines are often busy, and online booking is faster.
Phone booking is mainly helpful for learners with poor internet access or who need extra accessibility support.
Extra support when booking your theory test
If you have a disability, health condition, or reading difficulty, you can request extra support.
This may include:
Extra time to take the test
A voiceover with headphones
A separate room or a translator (if eligible)
Support for theory test accessibility
Official government website – opens in new tab
What happens on the day of your theory test?
Once you’ve booked your theory test appointment, make sure you know the date and have your confirmation email ready.
You’ll need to take your provisional licence to the test centre and follow the instructions on arrival.
Find out what to expect on the day
To pass, you need:
Need to move your date? Change your theory test.
Tips for passing your theory test first time
What if you fail the theory test?
You can rebook your theory test if you fail — there’s no limit to how many times you can take it.
You’ll need to wait at least 3 working days before retaking it and pay the £23 fee again.
How long is your theory test pass valid?
A pass certificate lasts for 2 years.
If you haven’t passed your practical test by then, you’ll need to take and pass the theory test again.
On the Day: Theory Test
Find out exactly what happens when you arrive for your theory test and what to bring with you.
Theory Test Revision Tips
Learn the best ways to prepare for the multiple‑choice and hazard perception parts of the test.
How to Choose a Driving Instructor
Tips for finding the right instructor to get you ready for your practical test.
❓ FAQs about provisional licences
How much does it cost to book a theory test?
It costs £23 in England, Scotland, Wales, and Northern Ireland.
What documents/details do I need to book?
You need your UK provisional licence number, postcode, a working email address, and a debit or credit card. Make sure your name and address match your licence.
Can I book my theory test by phone?
Yes. DVSA bookings for England, Scotland and Wales: 0300 200 1122 (Monday to Friday, 8am to 4pm). Northern Ireland bookings are via nidirect. The fee is the same, booking online is usually quicker.
Can I get adjustments or support when I book?
Yes. You can request support such as BSL video, a voiceover, a reader, a hearing loop, extra time, or a separate room. You may be asked for evidence. Add this request during the online booking.
What happens if I fail my theory test?
You can book another test straight away, the earliest available date will be at least 3 working days later. Use your result printout to focus revision, then rebook online on GOV.UK or nidirect.
Can foreign nationals book a theory test
Yes, if you hold a UK provisional licence and meet residency rules, usually living in Great Britain for at least 185 days in the last 12 months. If you live in Northern Ireland, book via nidirect.