What to bring to your theory test

Make sure you’re comfortable when you take your theory test. Wear the clothes you feel happiest in, but be aware personal belongings will have to be stored in a locker or handed over to test centre staff while you take the test.

You may want to take a bottle of water to keep hydrated during the theory test. It should be see-through but the test centre staff can advise you if you can take it into the test room. Many centres may have water fountains with cups so you can enjoy a drink while taking the test.

All personal belongings must be stored at the test centre, either in a locker or in a safe space indicated by test centre staff. The list of personal belongings not allowed into the testing room includes:

• Small bags (do not bring large bags with you).
• Coats and jackets.
• Hats or caps.
• Earphones.
• Mobile phones.
• Watches.
• Wallets and purses.
• Books and pens.
• Anything in your pockets

When taking your theory test, store personal belongings in the provided locker. Only approved items, including small bags, are permitted in the test room, so avoid large ones. Check with the DVSA during test booking to understand the allowed items.

Ensure you carry your photocard provisional driving licence for your theory driving test; without it, you'll be denied entry and lose your fee. If you have an old-style paper provisional licence, bring it with a valid passport. Double-check these items before leaving for your test to avoid cancellation.

Dress comfortably for your UK car theory test, similar to attire for a driving lesson. Avoid formal wear or anything obstructing your view. Remember your photocard driving licence and necessary glasses or contact lenses. Ensure all electronic devices are off before entering the test centre. Store personal belongings in a locker or give them to the test centre staff.

You cannot take your theory test without a valid provisional licence, as required by the Driver and Vehicle Standards Agency (DVSA). Apply for your provisional licence at the local Post Office or through the Driver & Vehicle Agency (DVA). Once received, you can book your theory test on the official GOV.UK website. This licence also allows you to gain supervised practical driving experience.

If you lose your provisional licence before your theory test, promptly apply for a £20 replacement on the GOV.UK website, which may take up to 15 days to arrive. If it won't arrive in time, reschedule your test to avoid losing your fee. Without a valid passport, you can't prove your identity at the test centre.

To book a driving test, ensure you have three key details: your UK driving licence number for identity confirmation, a credit or debit card for payment, and your driving instructor's personal reference number for scheduling. These will expedite your booking process, advancing you towards road-readiness.

To pass your theory test, two weeks of concentrated study is usually sufficient. Some learners have covered the entire theory kit in a weekend, but it's advisable not to rush. The aim is not just to pass, but to become a safer, more knowledgeable driver. With consistent effort, you'll be driving soon.

UK driving lessons typically cost between £25-£30 per hour. Although it often takes around 45 hours of lessons to pass, each learner's experience varies. It's crucial to select a learning pace that matches your comfort and confidence, ensuring full preparation for the test. Prioritise a solid understanding of driving rules and practices over rushing to pass.

Don't worry if you've misplaced your theory test certificate; there's no need for a replacement. Your driving examiner can access the necessary records and confirm your pass status before your driving test. Your theory test pass is logged electronically, ensuring your pass status remains intact even if your certificate is lost. However, safeguard your driving licence details as they're needed for booking your practical test.

If you've lost your theory test pass certificate, retrieve the number online via the GOV.UK website using your driving licence number and full name. This number is needed to book your practical driving test. You'll receive a letter for your practical test, not a new certificate. Remember, the certificate is valid for two years, so pass your practical test within this period.

If you misplace your driving licence, simply apply for a replacement; there's no need to retake your theory test. Your results are still valid and recorded by the Driver and Vehicle Licensing Agency (DVLA). Despite losing your licence, your theory test result remains intact. Ensure to promptly apply for a replacement to remain law-abiding.

The UK driving theory test takes approximately 1 hour and 20 minutes to complete in total, though it can be finished sooner, with up to 57 minutes for the multiple-choice section and about 20 minutes for the hazard perception section. You are allowed a 3-minute break between the two parts. Structure of the Theory Test

The test is divided into two parts:

Multiple-Choice Questions

1. You have 57 minutes to answer 50 questions.
2. These questions can cover road signs, road safety, and other driving practices.
3. You must get a minimum of 43 out of 50 to pass this section.

Hazard Perception Test

1. You are shown 14 video clips that show developing hazards on the road.
2. You need to click the mouse as soon as you see a developing hazard.
3. You must score at least 44 out of 75 to pass this part.

Before the Test

• You should arrive 15 minutes before your scheduled test time.
• Before starting, there is a brief introduction where you will be shown the instructions and given the chance to do a practice question to get familiar with the system.

The car or motorcycle theory test costs £23, covering both multiple-choice questions and hazard perception, irrespective of the day or time. However, for lorries and buses, the test is split into £26 for multiple-choice and £11 for hazard perception. The taxi driving test is priced at £34.

Ensure you bring your UK photocard provisional driving licence for your theory test. If you have a paper licence, also bring your passport for identity verification. Without these, you may be denied entry to the test. Check their validity in advance to avoid rescheduling. In essence, correct documentation is crucial to proceed with your theory test.

A UK driving theory test usually takes around 80 minutes, but can be completed in about 60 minutes if you're fast with multiple-choice questions. It's important to pace yourself and use the time effectively to accurately understand and answer each question.

From 2026, the driving theory test will incorporate new CPR and defibrillator questions, aiming to boost cardiac arrest survival rates. This enhancement emphasises first aid knowledge, building on existing content in driver education. Therefore, expect a greater focus on first aid in your revision from 2026 onwards.

For a UK driving test in your own car, you need a provisional licence, valid insurance, tax, and MOT (if necessary). Your roadworthy, legal car should have L plates, an interior rear-view mirror for the examiner, and suitable passenger seat head restraint and seatbelt. Ensure no dashboard warning lights are on, tyres are in good condition, and the car is clean and smoke-free.

To pass the UK car or motorcycle theory test, score at least 43/50 in the multiple-choice questions and 44/75 in the hazard perception section. The test includes 50 questions to be completed in 57 minutes and 14 video clips identifying potential road hazards. Both sections must be passed; failure in one necessitates a full retake. Results are provided immediately at the test centre.

Ensure you arrive at least 15 minutes before your theory test start time to settle in. If you're late and miss the start, the test will be cancelled, and you'll lose the fee paid. Plan ahead for possible traffic or public transport delays to avoid missing the test.

To pass your theory test, you must score at least 43/50 on multiple-choice questions about road signs and safety, and 44/75 on the hazard perception test, which involves identifying hazards in video clips promptly. You must pass both sections to succeed overall. Good luck!

The theory test, with recent pass rates of 45-50%, can be challenging due to inadequate preparation, hazard perception difficulties, and test environment pressure. To increase your chances of passing, study the Highway Code thoroughly, practice hazard perception, utilise online resources for mock exams, and learn all road signs. Never underestimate the test's difficulty; diligent preparation is key. It's a demanding but achievable task with the right effort and commitment.

There's no formal dress code for the driving theory test, but comfort is key. Choose casual, layered clothing for temperature adjustment and comfortable shoes like trainers or flats for easy movement. Avoid restrictive clothing, thick-soled shoes or flip-flops that may hinder pedal operation. Consider not wearing hats as they could obstruct staff's view at the test centre. Dressing comfortably can help maintain focus during the test.

You can use the toilet during your theory test, but it's advised to do so beforehand to prevent disruptions. If necessary, you're permitted to use the facilities during the test, but your test time won't be paused. Any time spent outside the exam room will reduce your remaining test time. Therefore, it's preferable to use the toilet before the test starts.

To pass your theory test, focus on mock tests, the Highway Code, and road signs. Arrive early at the test centre with your provisional licence. Stay calm, read questions carefully, simplify answers, and earmark difficult questions for later. Efficiently manage your time to cover all sections. Remember, practice, preparation, and composure are key.

Yes, you can bring water into your theory test. You'll be given a booth and computer in the test room. Before the test starts, you'll have 15 minutes to acquaint yourself with the touch screen and question format. Remain calm and confident in your preparation.

Yes, you can bring a clear water bottle into your theory test, although rules may differ across centres. It's advisable to confirm with the centre staff beforehand. Alternatively, many centres offer water fountains and cups for your convenience during the test.

You should try to avoid alcohol before your driving theory test as it impairs focus and response accuracy, and can encourage rash decision-making. To increase your chances of success, it's advisable to abstain from alcohol.

Yes, you can bring a bag to your theory test, but it must be stored in a locker as per the Driver and Vehicle Standards Agency (DVSA) rules to prevent cheating and maintain test integrity. You won't have access to your bag during the test, ensuring a fair, distraction-free environment. Only bring essential items to streamline the process.

Theory Test Centres should provide moderate-sized lockers for secure storage of essentials like mobile phones and driving licences. Larger items, such as laptops in bags, should also fit. However, it's recommended you bring only necessary items to the test centre.

Dress casually and comfortably for your UK car theory test to maintain focus. Ensure your view isn't obstructed and bring your photocard driving licence. If required, bring glasses or contact lenses. Before entering the test centre, turn off all electronic devices like mobile phones and smartwatches. Dressing appropriately and having essentials helps you concentrate on the test without distractions.

Yes, you can bring a water bottle to your UK driving theory test, but remove the label to prevent issues. Consult test centre staff about drink rules and available facilities. Store all other items, including bags and mobile phones, in the provided lockers. Arrive early with your provisional driving license and avoid distracting others during the test.