£23
Theory test fee
As of June 2026. Verify at GOV.UK for the current DVSA rate.
£62
Practical test fee (weekday)
Weekend and bank holiday bookings cost £75. Verify at GOV.UK.
£75
Practical test fee (weekend)
Weekday bookings cost £62. Both verified June 2026. Check GOV.UK.
£34
Provisional licence (online)
Apply at 15 years 9 months. You cannot drive until 17. Verify at GOV.UK.
Guides for every stage
Theory test
50 multiple choice questions and 14 hazard perception clips. You need to pass both sections to pass the test. The certificate is valid for two years. If you do not pass your practical within that window, you have to retake it.
Practical driving test
Around 40 minutes of driving, including a 20-minute independent driving section. The examiner checks normal driving ability, not navigation skill. Waiting times have been long. Book as early as you can.
Driving licence
The photocard renews every 10 years, and most people do not realise their photo has quietly expired as an ID document. At 70, you must renew every 3 years. Address changes need updating separately.
Provisional licence
You can apply at 15 years and 9 months, even though you cannot drive until 17. Applying early means it is ready for your birthday. Costs £34 online. The rules around what you can do on a provisional are often misunderstood.
Once you have passed: what comes next
Passing your test is the start, not the end. A few things worth knowing for new drivers.
Insurance costs are high. Young drivers pay significantly more for car insurance than older drivers. The main factors affecting your premium: your age, the car you drive (engine size, value, insurance group), where you live, and your annual mileage. A telematics policy, sometimes called a black box policy, tracks your driving and can cut premiums substantially if you drive carefully. For many new drivers it is the cheapest option.
Pass Plus. A DVSA scheme of six extra driving modules covering motorways, night driving, rural roads, and other conditions. Some insurers offer a discount for completing it. Whether the cost is worth it depends on your insurer. Check before you book.
Your vehicle needs taxing and will need an MOT. Road tax (Vehicle Excise Duty) is a legal requirement before you drive on public roads. Any car over three years old also needs a valid MOT. Both can be checked and managed at GOV.UK.
Get a reminder when it's time to renew your driving licence or update your photo.
Common questions about driving in the UK
How do I book a driving test in the UK?▾
Book through the DVSA's official booking service on GOV.UK at book a driving test. You will need your driving licence number, a valid theory test pass certificate number (for practical test bookings), and a payment card. The DVSA is the only official booking channel. Third-party booking sites charge extra for the same slots.
Can I drive on a provisional licence?▾
Yes. With a provisional licence you can drive a car on public roads provided you are accompanied by a qualified driver who is at least 21 years old and has held a full UK licence for at least 3 years. L plates must be displayed at the front and rear of the vehicle. You cannot drive on a motorway with a provisional unless you are with an approved driving instructor in a dual-control car.
How long does it take to learn to drive?▾
It varies considerably. The DVSA's own data suggests around 45 hours of professional instruction plus 22 hours of private practice on average before candidates are test-ready. Some people are ready in less time, some need more. Anyone promising a specific number of lessons before you start is guessing.
What happens if I fail my theory test?▾
You can rebook immediately. There is no mandatory waiting period. Once you pass, your theory test certificate is valid for 2 years. If you do not pass your practical test within that window, you have to retake the theory.
How long is the wait for a driving test?▾
Waiting times have been long in recent years, often several months in busy areas. They change constantly and vary significantly by test centre. The only reliable way to check current availability is through the DVSA booking service at GOV.UK. Book as soon as you feel ready rather than waiting until you are certain.
Do I need to renew my driving licence?▾
Yes, the photocard renews every 10 years. The expiry date is on the back of the card. At age 70 you must renew every 3 years. DVLA sends a reminder. You must also update your licence when you change address or change your name. Most people do not realise the photocard photo has expired quietly and their licence is no longer valid as photo ID, though an expired photo does not affect your legal right to drive.