When can I take my theory test for driving?
The Driver & Vehicle Standards Agency (DVSA) Theory Test is one of the first things you should do to get full driving licence in the UK. You must pass this test before you can take your practical driving test, plus the work you do to prepare for the theory test will help you to become a better driver.
How old must I be?
In the UK, you must be 17 before you can book a theory test. You must also have a provisional driving licence. You can apply for this when you are 16.
What must I do before I can sit the theory driving test?
Provisional Licence. The first thing to do is to apply for your provisional driving licence. To do this, you must live in Great Britain and you will have to provide your addresses for the past three years. You must also meet minimum eyesight requirements (which will be checked at the start of your practical driving test). You can apply for a provisional driving licence online (www.direct.gov.uk), or you can pick up an application form from any Post Office.
Identification documents. However you apply, you will have to provide original copies of identification documents (e.g. a valid UK passport, or a birth certificate with supporting documentation), unless you have a biometric UK passport (where the photograph and signature are on the same page). In this case you can enter the 9-digit passport number online. A full list of acceptable ID is available here. You will also need to provide a passport sized photograph.
Your provisional driving licence application will cost you £50.
You should receive your licence within three weeks, although it can take longer (e.g. if they have to check medical records). Of course, you don’t need to wait for your licence to arrive before you start preparing for your theory test.
Booking driving test. The last thing to do is to book the actual test. You can only take the official theory test at registered DVSA Test Centres and you must book your test ahead of time. You can book a test online (at www.direct.gov.uk), and will need to provide your provisional driving licence number and an email address. Alternatively, you can book a test over the telephone (0300 200 1122 – English bookings, or 0300 200 1133 – Welsh bookings). The test costs £31, which must be paid when you book the test.
What do I need on the day of the test?
On the day of the test, remember to take both parts of your driving licence with you. If you have an old paper licence, you should also take your passport. You will not be able to take your test without these documents and your fee will not be refunded! Also, you are not allowed to take any notes or personal items into the test room, so don’t be tempted.
If you have prepared well, you should have no problem passing the theory test. Then you can move on to the practical test. Good luck!