How much is a theory test?

Theory Test
Last updated: Wednesday, 15th May 2024
How much is a theory test

Do you want to get your UK driving licence? You can only get your full UK driving licence once you pass the DVSA practical driving test. However, learner drivers must pass the DVSA car theory test before taking the car practical driving test.

A common question learner drivers have is, 'How much does the theory test cost?' In this article, we'll break down the current theory test prices and what's included in the test, so you can focus on smashing your theory test the first time!

Key takeaways

  • The DVSA car driving theory test costs £23

  • The DVSA theory test fees vary depending on the test you take. For example, the multiple-choice questions and hazard perception HGV theory tests combined cost £37

  • There may be additional charges for rescheduling or cancelling the DVSA theory test

What is the DVSA theory test?

The DVSA theory test is a computer-based examination that assesses your knowledge and understanding of the UK Highway Code, road signs, and safe driving practices.

It consists of two parts: multiple-choice questions and hazard perception.

The multiple-choice section tests your knowledge on various topics such as traffic signs, rules of the road, and vehicle handling.

The hazard perception part shows a series of video clips featuring everyday road situations. You can identify developing hazards by clicking the mouse when you see them. The earlier you respond to the developing hazard, the higher your score will be.

It's important to note that the type of theory test you take depends on the category of vehicle you wish to drive. The DVSA offer theory tests for cars, motorcycles, lorries, and buses, as well as candidates training to become driving instructors.

How much does a DVSA theory test cost?

You can book your driving theory test as soon as you get your UK provisional driving licence. The cost of booking a DVSA (Driver and Vehicle Standards Agency) theory test is currently £23 for cars, motorcycles and moped tests in the UK.

Here are the current theory test fees in the UK:

It's important to note that these prices are subject to change, so always double-check the DVSA website for the most up-to-date theory test and driving test costs.

How much is a driving test booking? Find out how much it costs to book a driving test

How much does a car driving theory test cost?

The cost of a car driving theory test is £23. This fee includes both the multiple-choice questions and hazard perception sections.

The theory test pass mark is 86%. To pass the car theory test, you must answer at least 43 out of 50 multiple-choice questions correctly and score at least 44 out of 75 on the hazard perception section.

Do you need car theory test practice material? You can get everything you need to pass your car theory test with the Driving Theory 4 All car theory test app.

Download our Driving Theory Test Assistant app for FREE for the best chance of passing your theory test first time.

How much does a motorcycle theory test cost?

The cost of a motorcycle theory test is also £23, which includes both the multiple-choice questions and hazard perception test sections. The motorcycle test pass mark is the same as the car theory test.

Are you preparing for your motorcycle theory test? Download our motorcycle theory test app to get everything you need to pass.

How much does an HGV theory test cost?

You need to take and pass HGV theory tests if you want to become a lorry driver. The fees for the DVSA LGV theory tests vary depending on the test you take. However, the costs are the same for all lorry licence categories - C1, C1E, C and CE.

The multiple-choice questions and hazard perception tests combined cost £37. These are separate tests that need to be booked and paid for independently.

The LGV Driver CPC part 2 case studies test costs £23. You can take part 2 before taking the LGV Driver CPC part 1 theory test.

You can revise for the HGV theory test using Driving Theory 4 All's online HGV theory test practice platform and Driving Theory Test Assistant app.

How much does a PCV theory test cost?

Similar to the HGV theory test, the fees for bus theory tests vary depending on the specific test you take. The combined cost of the multiple-choice questions and hazard perception tests is also £37.

The PCV Driver CPC part 2 case studies test costs £23 and can be taken before or after completing the PCV Driver CPC part 1 theory test.

You can prepare for the test with our online PCV theory test practice material and the Driving Theory Test Assistant app.

How much does an ADI part 1 theory test cost?

The cost for the ADI part 1 theory test is £81. This includes both the multiple-choice questions and hazard perception sections.

To pass this test, you must score at least 85 out of 100 on the multiple-choice questions and at least 57 out of 75 on the hazard perception section.

Pass your Advanced Driving Instructor theory test with the latest DVSA theory test questions and hazard perception videos.

Rescheduling or cancelling your theory test

You can change or cancel your theory test with the DVSA without any further cost if you do so within three clear working dates before your theory test date.

For example, if your driving theory test is booked for a Friday, you must change or cancel it by the previous Monday.

If you cancel or reschedule your test within three clear working days, you will be charged the full amount for a new theory test.

Ready to change your theory test booking? Check out our comprehensive guide on how to change theory tests.

Need to cancel your theory test? Here's our detailed guide on how to cancel your driving theory test.

If you fail the DVSA theory test, you can book and pay for another test. There is no limit to the number of times you can retake the test, but you have to pay the test fee each time.

How to book a theory test

Ready to book your driving theory test?

You can book your theory test with the DVSA online or by phone.

Alternatively, we can book your driving theory test with the added benefit of a Pass Guarantee.

Why book with us?

  • Pass Guarantee: Retake your next tests for free if you fail, so you don't have to pay the DVSA test fee again. You need to meet our training and testing criteria to be eligible for unlimited re-sits.

  • Quick and easy booking: We'll book your driving theory test for a date and time slot that suits you best.

  • Access to our comprehensive theory test practice material: Our online platform and exclusive Driving Theory Test Assistant app will give you everything you need to pass.

  • Customer support: Our friendly team is available to assist you with any queries or concerns you may have throughout the process.

Book your theory test now with unlimited re-sits

Extra costs when learning to drive

When budgeting to learn to drive, it's important to consider the extra costs beyond the price of booking a theory test. These include:

  • Provisional licence: Before you can start taking driving lessons, you will need to apply for a provisional driving licence. This currently costs £34 if done online or £43 by post.

  • Driving lessons: The cost of driving lessons can vary depending on your location and the driving instructor you choose.

  • Insurance for learner drivers: If you plan to practise driving outside of your lessons, you'll need learner driver insurance. This insurance can be more expensive than regular coverage, adding to your overall costs.

  • Fuel costs: Practising in your car or a family member's car will also incur fuel costs. Regular practice is key to passing your test, so these costs can add up over time.

  • Practical driving test fee: In addition to the theory test, you'll need to budget for the practical driving test. The cost can vary depending on the time of day and whether you opt for a weekend slot. Discover the costs involved when booking a driving test

  • Theory test practice material: Investing in high-quality learning material, such as Driving Theory 4 All's online Learning Zone and theory test app is crucial if you want to pass your test on the first try.

Frequently asked questions about theory test fees

The cost of a DVSA theory test varies depending on the type of test. The UK car and motorcycle theory test costs £23, while the Driver CPC Part 1 multiple-choice test costs £26.

When booking your DVSA theory test, it is advisable to book at least two months in advance. This allows sufficient time to prepare and study. Booking well in advance increases the likelihood of getting your preferred date and time slot.

Test centres can become busy, especially during peak periods, so early booking ensures more options and flexibility.

Find driving theory test waiting times at every DVSA theory test centre

You can book your theory test at any DVSA theory test centre. Find your nearest theory test centre and everything you need to know about every DVSA theory test centre.

You can apply for a provisional UK driving licence either online or by post. The online application on the GOV.UK website costs £34, while the postal application costs £43.

Yes, you can change your theory test appointment on the DVSA website. You can do this up to three days before the test date without any additional cost. Finding an earlier appointment may be challenging. Here's our step-by-step guide on changing a theory test to an earlier date.

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