• What's a driving theory test in the UK?

  A theory test (also known as a driving theory test or a car theory test) is a multiple-choice exam covering traffic signs, safe driving practices, and road rules in the United Kingdom, Isle of Man and the Channel Islands. The test is required to obtain a learner's permit or a provisional licence and upgrade to a full licence and periodically during the licence period. The DVSA administers the test in the UK and the DVA - in Northern Ireland. Applicants can take the theory test from their 17th birthday onwards. The test is available in English, Welsh or British sign language. The theory test consists of two parts. First, the applicants must answer 40 multiple-choice questions based on the information in the Highway Code. Then, they'll get a hazard perception test (a video test about spotting hazards on the road). Candidates must answer 35 out of 40 multiple-choice questions correctly to pass the first part (there is a time limit of 45 minutes). The theory test differs from the practical driving test. It tests knowledge of the Highway Code, a set of principles for safe driving rather than driving skills.

• How to get the UK driving licence?

  It costs £34 to apply for a provisional driving licence if applying online, or £43 if applying by post. You can pay by MasterCard, Visa, Electron, Maestro or Delta debit or credit card. The DVSA allows you to apply for a provisional driving licence when you're 15 years and nine months old. You'll need to pass your theory test (remember to book online or in person). To complete your application, you will need a valid UK biometric passport or another identity document. You'll also be required to provide your National Insurance card and the addresses you've lived at over the last three years. It usually takes from one to three weeks for your provisional licence to arrive.

How Can I Apply for my UK Driving Licence? Frequently Asked Questions

• Collapse all

• At what age can I apply for my provisional driving licence in the UK?

  The DVSA allows you to apply for a provisional driving licence when you’re 15 years and 9 months old. You can start driving a car when you’re 17, or a moped when you’re 16. You'll need to pass your theory test (remember to book online or in person).

• What documents do I need when applying for my licence in the UK?

  A valid form of identification:

  • UK passport
  • UK birth or adoption certificate, but this must be accompanied by one of the following:
    • National Insurance card or a letter from the Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) showing your National Insurance number
    • Photocopy of the front page of a benefits book or an original benefits claim letter
    • P45, P60 or pay slip
    • Marriage certificate or divorce papers (decree nisi or absolute)
    • College or university union card, school record or PASS CitizenCard
  • A biometric residence provisional licence (formerly known as the identity card for foreign nationals)
  • A UK certificate of naturalisation
  • An EU/EEA national identity card
  • Another travel document

  Your full legal name
  Your National Insurance number, if known
  Addresses where you’ve lived over the last 3 years
  D1 driving licence application form, which you can get from the official DVSA form ordering service or from a Post Office.
  Application fee -- £34 if applying online, or £43 if applying by post

• Where do I go to apply for my driving licence in the UK?

  You can visit your local DVSA office, or apply online or by post.

• How can I contact the UK DVSA office?

  The DVSA office can be reached at 0843 515 8104 or by going online to https://www.gov.uk/contact-the-dvla.

• Who needs to accompany me for the theory and practical driving tests in the UK? A parent? A driving instructor?

  There are no requirements about who needs to accompany you.

• Is a physical examination required to get a provisional licence in the UK?

  No, but the DVSA requires you to notify them if you have any eyesight problem or any other health condition that might affect your driving.

• Do I need to take a vision test when applying for a UK driving licence?

  Yes, the DVSA requires you to take a vision test when you apply for a UK driving licence. You must have visual acuity of at least decimal 0.5 (6/12) measured on the Snellen scale (with glasses or contact lenses, if necessary).

• Where can I get a photo taken for my UK driving licence?

  You can get your driving licence photo taken at any studio that takes passport photos. In fact, you can apply with your existing passport photo, as long as it’s current.

• What colours should I avoid wearing when I get my driving licence picture taken?

  There are no colours you should avoid. Wear any colour you like!

• Do I need to put up my hair when I get my driving licence picture taken?

  You may wear your hair the same way you’d normally wear it; however, it should not cover your face or your eyes. The purpose of the photo is to be able to identify who you really are. Besides, you wouldn’t want to hide that charming face!

• What makeup should I wear when I get my driving licence picture taken?

  Just wear your normal makeup; however, the less makeup, the better. As long as you’re not wearing so much makeup that you’re unrecognizable, you’ll be quite all right!

• Why is it best not to smile when you're having your driving licence picture taken?

  The DVSA says you must look straight into the camera without any smiling or frowning. A straight face on the photo helps distinguish who you really are, which helps prevent identity fraud.

• What are some tips for getting the best out of the driving licence picture?

  Simply look straight into the camera and keep a calm and relaxed face!

• I have already applied for my UK licence. What do I do next?

  If you’ve applied for your UK licence and passed the theory and practical driving tests, you will be issued a pass certificate, which will be valid until you receive your driving licence -- usually within four weeks. You can track your application online via the DVSA website.

• I have a question that’s not answered above. What do I do?

  If you can’t find the answer to your question above, please use our Beginner Driver Q & A Section to get a professional answer from our experts! If you need any further assistance, you’re welcome to contact us directly at [email protected].
• Collapse all

How Can I Get Ready for my UK Driving Theory Test? Frequently Asked Questions

• Collapse all

• What do I need to know for my UK driving theory test?

  Gov.uk lists three sources you’ll need to know:

  • The Highway Code
  • ‘Know your traffic signs’
  • The relevant book from the ‘essential skills’ range

• Where can I study for my UK driving theory test?

  Take our FREE Mock Theory Marathon Test as many times as you want until you’re 100% ready! You may also study at home, school, your local library, or any place where you can easily concentrate. Resources such as The Highway Code will be useful as well.

• Do I need to enrol in a Driving Program in order to be eligible for a UK provisional licence?

  No, the DVSA doesn’t require you to enrol in any driving program, but you must be accompanied by a driver aged at least 21, and with a minimum of three years' driving experience, at all times when you’re operating a vehicle.

• Where can I get a 2023 edition of The Highway Code?

  You may easily get one from your local DVSA office, or you can access it online on our website.

• Do I have to read the whole UK Highway Code to pass the driving theory test?

  Yes, you should read the entire book, and ‘Know Your Traffic Signs,’ as well as the relevant book from The ‘Essential Skills’ Range. These manuals are filled with all of the information you are required to know for your driving theory test.

• Is there a driving theory test mobile app for my iPhone/iPad?

  Yes, you can download it here! It’s a great way to study for your UK driving theory test.

• What are the questions on the UK driving theory test?

  The exact questions will differ from one test to another, but they cover topics such as alertness, attitude, hazard awareness, other types of vehicles, vehicle safety, vehicle handling, motorway rules, road and traffic signs, documents, accidents, vehicle loading, and vulnerable road users. Several websites offer sample test questions. Most of them will offer you a low-quality free test, but will charge you for the full test. Instead, our Mock Theory Marathon Test is completely free and written by experts who based it closely on questions from the real DVSA theory test!

• Where can I find free practise tests for the UK driving theory test?

  You may find practise tests by going online to https://www.gov.uk/take-practice-theory-test. We also invite you to take our tests on this website, and finally take the FREE Mock Theory Marathon Test here right before heading to the DVSA office!

• Where can I take my driving theory test in the UK?

  You may take your permit test at your local DVSA office. Be sure to schedule an appointment by either calling 0843 515 8104 or by going online to https://www.gov.uk/contact-the-dvla.

• What should I do the night before my driving theory test?

  The absolute most important thing to do the night before the written test is to RELAX! By the time the night before your written test comes, you should be very familiar with the The Highway Code. Get a good night’s rest and remain positive.

• How many people in the UK, on average, pass their first driving theory test?

  The national average pass rate for males is 49.1% and for females it’s 42.8%.

• How do I know when I’m ready to take my UK driving theory test?

  When you are familiar with The Highway Code and can easily take the practise tests (including the Marathon) on our website, you are ready. You should also take the practise test available for free at https://www.gov.uk/take-practice-theory-test!

• I think I’m ready for my UK driving theory test! What do I do next?

  Now that you've prepared yourself by studying and taking the practise test, your next step is to contact your local DVSA office and schedule an appointment!
• Collapse all

Taking Your Driving Theory Test: Frequently Asked Questions

• Collapse all

• Where do I sign up for a UK provisional licence?

  You must sign up for your provisional licence through the DVSA office. Call or go online to https://www.gov.uk/contact-the-dvla in order to schedule an appointment.

• When can I get my provisional licence in the UK?

  The DVSA allows you to apply for a provisional driving licence when you’re 15 years and 9 months old.

• What do I need to take my driving theory test in the UK?

  • Your Great Britain or Northern Ireland provisional driving licence number
  • Your email address to get your booking confirmation -- you can’t book online if you don’t have one
  • A debit or credit card
  • £25 application fee

• How much is the UK driving theory test?

  In order to apply, you must pay a £25 application fee.

• When I take my UK driving theory test, do my parents have to go with me?

  No, your parents are not required to go with you. In fact, there are no requirements about who needs to accompany you. Make sure you book online or in person.

• What do I need to know to pass my UK driving theory test?

  Gov.uk lists three sources you’ll need to know:

  • The Highway Code
  • ‘Know your traffic signs’
  • The relevant book from the ‘essential skills’ range

• How many questions are on the UK driving theory test?

  Section one has 50 randomly selected multiple-choice questions. Section two consists of 14 video clips (also known as Hazard Perception Test, each about a minute in length) in which you must spot as many hazards as possible.

• What is the passing score on the UK driving theory test?

  In order to pass section one, you must answer at least 43 of 50 questions correctly. In order to pass section two, you must score at least 44 of 75 points (on the Hazard Perception Test, each hazard is worth up to five points).

• How many questions can I miss on the 2023 UK driving theory test?

  You cannot miss more than 7 questions in section one, or more than 31 points in section two.

• What common errors must I avoid when taking the UK driving theory test?

  After putting so much effort into studying, you definitely don’t want to make mistakes that you can easily avoid! The biggest error to avoid is rushing through questions. The DVSA explicitly states that they’re not trying to “trick” you. Just take your time and remember what you’ve studied.

• Can I use the UK Highway Code when I take the actual permit test at the DVSA?

  Absolutely NOT! This is not an open book test. The purpose of the test is to make sure you understand and apply the rules of the road.

• Do I get a drug test when I get a provisional licence in the UK?

  Yes you do. You agree to submit a chemical test when you sign the application for your learner’s permit and driving licence. The drug test determines the alcohol and drug content in your bloodstream.

• Where is the easiest DVSA office to pass my driving theory test?

  There is no “easy” place. The ONLY place to take a permit test is at the DVSA office. The easiest thing to do is be prepared. The test is computerized and the questions are randomly picked.

• How do I read some feedback from people who already passed their UK driving theory test?

  Check out all the success stories here! They’re all written by real people who have taken and PASSED the theory test.

• What if I don’t pass my driving theory test?

  The DVSA will require you to wait at least 3 working days before you can take your test again.

• If I fail my driving theory test, when is the next time I can take it?

  The DVSA will require you to wait at least 3 working days before you can take your test again. During this time, you should take the practise test available at https://www.gov.uk/take-practice-theory-test. We also encourage you to take ALL of our mock theory tests on this website, including the FREE Mock Theory Marathon Test here.

• Who can I drive with a UK provisional licence?

  You must be accompanied by a driver aged at least 21, who has a minimum of three years' driving experience, at all times when you’re operating a vehicle. You must also fix learner plates known as 'L' plates ('D' plates in Wales) to the front and back of the car. You must also apply for and receive third-party insurance in order to drive legally in the UK.

• Where can I drive with a UK provisional licence?

  You may drive anywhere as long as you’re accompanied by a driver aged at least 21, who has a minimum of three years' driving experience, as long as you have learner plates known as 'L' plates ('D' plates in Wales) affixed to the front and back of the car, and as long as you have third-party insurance.

• I have passed my UK driving theory test! What are my next steps?

  Congratulations! Now you can apply for your practical driving test.
• Collapse all

Getting Ready for Your UK Practical Driving Test: Frequently Asked Questions

• Collapse all

• What things should I practise for my UK practical driving test?

  You should practise all of the skills required in order to handle a vehicle safely. You should know how to:

  • Make a stop
  • Make an angle start (pulling out from behind a parked vehicle)
  • Make a hill start
  • Make an emergency stop
  • Reverse around a corner
  • Turn in the road
  • Park in reverse
  • Drive safely on your own for 10 minutes

• Where can I practise driving in the UK?

  You may practise driving anywhere. Ideally, you’ll want to drive in streets with which you’re familiar.

• Why is it important to spend time practising before taking the practical driving test?

  Without practice, you can’t be sure you’re prepared for the pressures of the road. Practice not only prepares you for your test; it also keeps you and others safe… and most importantly, ALIVE!

• Where can I go in the UK to learn driving?

  It is best to learn how to drive on streets that you are familiar with before branching off into other places. If you’re looking for a driving school, you can find dozens of schools online. Make sure the school you choose has behind-the-wheel training.

• What should I expect on my UK practical driving test?

  You should expect this exam to test your ability to drive safely and accurately. The test will consist of several sections:

  • Your DVSA examiner will give you an eyesight test, in which you’ll have to read a number plate from a distance of 20 metres for vehicles with a new-style number plate, or 20.5 metres for vehicles with an old-style number plate.
  • You’ll be asked 2 vehicle safety questions -- also known as ‘show me, tell me’ questions. The ‘show me’ question will require you to demonstrate how you’d carry out a vehicle safety check, and the ‘tell me’ question will require you to explain how you’d perform that check. See our example ‘Show Me Tell Me’ test here.
  • You’ll be tested on your driving ability for about 40 minutes. This will include various kinds of stops and starts, reverses, turns, and similar maneuvers.
  • For the independent driving section, your examiner will watch as you drive for about 10 minutes, and note any major mistakes you might make.

• Is the UK practical driving test hard?

  Only if you’re NOT well-prepared. It may also be difficult to those who are extremely nervous because they aren’t sure of what to expect. The test only lasts about an hour. Your DVSA examiner will not try to trick you (the last thing he or she wants to do is trick you and cause an accident). He or she will be testing your ability to obey traffic laws and drive safely.

• What should I do the night before my practical driving test?

  The best thing to do at this point is RELAX and look forward to the following night as a licenced driver.

• How do I schedule a practical driving test in the UK?

  The DVSA offers a free online booking system. Or if you like, you can call booking support at 0300 200 11 22, or send an email to [email protected].

• Where do I go to take my UK practical driving test?

  You must take your practical driving test at your local DVSA office.

• Where do I get a car for my UK practical driving test?

  You are required to supply your own car for the driving test. The vehicle must be safe to drive. The examiner will check for the following:

  • Front and rear licence plates
  • Front signal and back signal lights
  • Working brake lights
  • Good tires
  • Emergency parking brake
  • Two rear view mirrors
  • A windshield without cracks in the field of vision
• Collapse all

Taking Your UK Practical Driving Test: Frequently Asked Questions

• Collapse all

• Who can I take with me for my UK practical driving test?

  You aren’t required to bring anyone along with you, but you’re allowed to invite your driving instructor, a friend or relative, or any other person over 16 to ride along in the back seat during your test.

• How do I pass my UK practical driving test the first time?

  The only way you will pass this test is by showing the examiner that you can drive safely and effectively. The examiner will observe you to see if you watched for pedestrians, judged the traffic and used your mirrors. Be sure to also:

  • Signal when merging into traffic
  • Do not drive too fast or too slow
  • Stay in control of the vehicle

• What things should I remember when taking a practical driving test in the UK?

  You have to show the examiner that you are a good enough driver to drive alone. So, when taking the test, remember what you’ve learned during your road practice. Additional things to remember include:

  • Adjusting your mirrors when getting in the car
  • Fastening your safety belt
  • Looking in the mirror and over your shoulder before merging into traffic
  • Keeping both hands on the steering wheel
  • Stopping behind crosswalks and limit lines

• What are the most common mistakes people make on the UK practical driving test?

  Believe it or not, people sometimes make critical driving errors that result in automatic failure. Some of the errors you should avoid include:

  • Driving 10 km over or under the speed limit
  • Not looking over your shoulder when merging into traffic or changing lanes
  • Running a red light
  • Lingering beside a lorry while passing
  • Hitting the brakes too aggressively
  • Not driving defensively

• When taking the practical driving test in the UK, what does the examiner ask?

  • The first thing the examiner will do is ask to see your provisional licence, proof that you’ve passed your driving theory test, and proof of third-party insurance.
  • Afterwards, the examiner will check for front and rear licence plates, front signal and back signal lights, and other important safety features on the vehicle you’ve brought with you.
  • The next step is eyesight check. The examiner will ask you to read a number plate from a distance of 20 metres for vehicles with a new-style number plate, or 20.5 metres for vehicles with an old-style number plate.
  • Next you’ll be asked 2 vehicle safety questions, also known as the ‘show me, tell me’ questions (click here to see our example Show Me Tell Me Test). The ‘show me’ question will require you to demonstrate how you’d carry out a vehicle safety check, and the ‘tell me’ question will require you to explain how you’d perform that check.
  • After that, you’ll be tested on your driving ability for about 40 minutes. This will include various kinds of stops and starts, reverses, turns, and similar maneuvers.
  • And finally comes the independent driving section, where your examiner will watch as you drive for about 10 minutes, and note any major mistakes you might make.

• What will I have to do on the UK practical driving test?

  You’ll have to show the examiner that you know how to control your vehicle while:

  • Making a stop
  • Making an angle start (pulling out from behind a parked vehicle)
  • Making a hill start
  • Making an emergency stop
  • Reversing around a corner
  • Turning in the road
  • Parking in reverse
  • Driving independently for 10 minutes

• Can I wear contact lenses when taking the UK practical driving test?

  Yes, you may wear contacts or glasses if you need them in order to see properly.

• Will I have to take the theory exam once again when taking my practical driving test?

  No, there is no need to take the written exam again.

• How many other people can I have in the car with me during my practical driving test?

  Your driving instructor, a friend or relative, or any other person over 16 may ride along in the back seat during your test.

• How many times can I fail my UK practical driving test?

  The DVSA allows you to retake the practical driving test as many times as necessary within the 2 years until your theory test certificate expires. However, you must wait 10 business days before taking the test again.

• Why do people fear driving? How do I get over the fear of driving?

  Some people develop a fear for driving after they have had an accident. The human brain has realized there is a danger involved and as a result your subconscious blows this phobia out of proportion.
• Collapse all

I’ve Passed My UK Practical Driving Test! What’s Next? Frequently Asked Questions

• Collapse all

• What happens after I pass my UK practical driving test?

  Hooray! You passed! Your examiner will give you a pass certificate. Once you have passed your test, you can start driving straight away. Your full licence will arrive in the mail within 2 weeks.

• Are there any limitations on my UK driving licence after I get it?

  No, the UK doesn’t place any restrictions on newly passed drivers.

• What should I know when driving in the UK for the first time?

  You should know that the average speed limit is 30 mph (48 km/h) in built-up areas, and 60 mph (97 km/h) on carriageways. Speed limits increase to 70 mph (113 km/h) on larger motorways. Be sure to watch out for bikeways (bicycle lanes). These lanes are painted on some streets, and it is illegal for a car to enter these lanes. Another thing you should know is that DUI (driving under the influence of alcohol) is a serious offense in the UK, so don’t drink and drive.

• What type of motor insurance should I get in the UK?

  The DVSA requires all drivers to carry third-party motor insurance at all times. This insurance will cover damage or injury to any other person, vehicle, animal or property in any accident you’re involved in. However, it won’t cover the costs of repairs to your own vehicle. So you may also want to purchase insurance that covers your own vehicle as well.

• What do I need in order to get my first UK motor insurance?

  You simply need a car and a driving licence.

• How much does motor insurance cost in the UK?

  How much you will pay for motor insurance will all depend on the following: which insurance company you choose, how old you are, how many people will be on your policy, what type of car you will drive, and your driving record.

• What is the cheapest car insurance I can get in the UK?

  A wide variety of car insurance companies offer a wide range of pricing op. You will have to do your research. Some insurance companies will offer discounts if you’re a student, or if you’ve taken a driving education class. Some of the not-so-big name car insurance companies offer the best competitive rates. You can end up paying less by choosing a car that is in a low insurance group. You begin by researching different insurance companies and seeing if they offer the best deal for you. Once you have narrowed it down to about 5 companies, just begin calling and take it from there.

• Why is car insurance in UK more expensive when my driving licence is new?

  Approximately 50% of drivers under 20 get some sort of traffic violation within their first year on the road. The most common mistake is speeding. Speeding can cause a driver to lose control of a car quite easily. Because new drivers (especially teens) have a higher risk of being in an accident, insurance companies charge more to cover them.
• Collapse all

I’ve Failed My UK Practical Driving Test! What’s Next? Frequently Asked Questions

• Collapse all

• I’ve failed my UK practical driving test. When can I take it again?

  The DVSA allows you to retake the practical driving test as many times as necessary within the 2 years until your theory test certificate expires. However, you must wait 10 business days before taking the test again.

• I’ve failed my UK practical driving test. What should I do next?

  If you fail your test, the examiner will tell you the areas in which you need to improve. If your driving instructor rode along for your test, he can give you specific tips as well. Take the advice and practise. You must wait 10 business days before you can take a retest. As soon as you feel you are ready, though, you may pay the retest fee and schedule to retake the test again.
• Collapse all

How Can I Renew My UK Driving Licence? Frequently Asked Questions

• Collapse all

• Where can I renew my UK driving licence?

  You can apply online, by post, or at any post office.

• What documents do I need to renew my UK driving licence?

  To apply online, you’ll need:

  • A valid UK passport
  • To be a resident of Great Britain -- there’s a different service in Northern Ireland
  • To pay £14 by MasterCard, Visa, Electron, Maestro or Delta debit or credit card
  • Addresses of where you’ve lived over the last 3 years
  • Your current driving licence, including the paper counterpart if you have a photocard licence (if you don’t have your licence you must say why in your application)
  • Your National Insurance number
  • To not be disqualified from driving

  To apply at a post office, you’ll need:

  • The completed renewal form D798
  • Your photocard licence and paper counterpart if you have them
  • The fee of £17

  To apply by post, you’ll need:

  • The completed renewal form D798
  • A new passport type photo taken within the last month (don’t sign the back of the photo)
  • The photocard and paper counterpart of your current licence (you need to tick the relevant box on the D798 form if you’ve lost either part)
  • A cheque or postal order for £17, payable to DVSA

• Do I need to take an eye exam when renewing my UK driving licence?

  No, it isn’t required, unless otherwise specified by a physician.
• Collapse all

I’m Moving to the UK! Frequently Asked Questions

• Collapse all

• Do I need to pass a driving test when moving to the UK from another country?

  You can drive on your full, valid out-of-country driving licence for 12 months from the day when you become resident in the UK. After 12 months, you’ll need to apply for a provisional licence and pass the theory and practical driving tests in order to continue driving.

• I have a permit from another country. Will it be accepted in the UK?

  No, your out-of-country permit will NOT be accepted in the UK. However, you can apply for your UK provisional driving licence as soon as you become resident in the UK.

• How long can I drive in the UK with my out-of-country licence?

  You can drive on your full, valid out-of-country driving licence for 12 months from the day when you become resident in the UK.

• Where can I get more driving-related information related to moving to the UK?

  You can easily find all of the answers to your driving-related questions by visiting https://www.gov.uk/browse/driving.
• Collapse all

General Questions About UK Driving Licences

• Collapse all

• When can I legally drive in the UK?

  You may legally drive in the UK at the age of 17, as long as you have a provisional licence and a licenced driver aged 21 or older in the car with you. You may not drive alone in the UK until you have your full driving licence.

• What is the legal limit for drinking and driving in the UK?

  Please understand that drinking and driving is dangerous and foolish. There is ZERO TOLERANCE for drinking and driving, and penalties are even harsher if you’re under 21. You are in criminal violation if your blood alcohol content is 0.08% or higher.

• What is defensive driving?

  Defensive driving is when you are driving for yourself and others. You are looking out for potential dangers ahead of time and avoiding them. According to the Safe Practices for Motor Vehicle Operations, defensive driving is “driving to save lives, time and money, in spite of the conditions around you and the actions of others”. Studies show that 90% of accidents are caused by driver errors.
  Although these skills are often taught in a driving education course, here are some ways you can begin defensive driving now:

  • Leave plenty of space between you and the car in front
  • Check all of your mirrors often and look at conditions far ahead of you
  • Keep your speed reasonable, and under the speed limit
  • Position your vehicle so you can see and be seen
  • Don’t depend on other drivers to drive safely!

• Why do some people choose not to get a driving licence?

  Anyone who chooses not to get a driving licence has their own personal reasons. Some people choose not get behind the wheel out of fear of the road, some choose not to because they may have a person who drives for them.
• Collapse all