Change or cancel your theory test: notice and refunds
Updated •5 min read
To change or cancel a theory test without paying again, give at least 3 full working days' notice. Inside that window you lose the fee, unless you qualify for a refund. Monday to Saturday count as working days, but Sundays and public holidays do not (gov.uk: change your theory test appointment).
How much notice do you need?
gov.uk says: "You must give at least 3 full working days' notice to change your test or you'll have to pay again." Cancelling works the same way: if you cancel within 3 full working days of the test date, you lose the original fee (gov.uk: cancel your theory test).
Because Sundays and public holidays do not count, count back from your test date carefully and leave a day of margin rather than changing it at the last minute.
What you can change
The official service lets you (gov.uk: change your theory test appointment):
- find an earlier theory test;
- move your test to a later date;
- change which test centre you take it at.
You need your UK driving licence number to do this online. If you no longer need the appointment at all, use gov.uk: cancel your theory test instead.
Can you get a refund for short-notice changes?
Sometimes. gov.uk says you can get a refund after a short-notice change or cancellation if you have (gov.uk: change your theory test appointment):
- an illness or injury that means you cannot take your test;
- suffered a bereavement;
- to take an exam at a school or college;
- had your driving licence stolen.
To claim, email the Driver and Vehicle Standards Agency (DVSA) with the subject title "Unavoidable short notice cancellation" and attach proof of the reason. gov.uk lists these as acceptable proof:
| Reason | Proof |
|---|---|
| Illness or injury | A fit note or medical certificate from a healthcare professional such as your GP |
| School or college exam | A letter from your school or college confirming the exam is at the same time |
| Stolen licence | A crime number and the contact name of the police officer |
gov.uk adds that if you were sick for 7 days or fewer, you might have to pay for a private medical certificate. Include your full name as it appears on your licence, address, postcode and date of birth, plus either your driving licence number or your booking reference number. DVSA tells you when the fee has been refunded.
What if you are not on the online service?
Contact DVSA theory test enquiries (gov.uk: change your theory test appointment):
| Contact | Detail |
|---|---|
| theorycustomerservices@dvsa.gov.uk | |
| Telephone | 0300 200 1122 |
| Hours | Monday to Friday, 8am to 5pm |
For phone or email changes, have your full name, date of birth, address with postcode, driving licence number and booking reference number ready. gov.uk says there is a separate service for changing or cancelling a theory test in Northern Ireland.
If you cannot find your booking details, see our guide to checking a lost theory test confirmation.
Rearranging because of ID problems
gov.uk says your test is cancelled, with no money back, if you do not bring the right ID. If a lost licence will not arrive in time, rearrange your test before the notice window closes. Our guide to what to bring and what happens on the day lists exactly what to take.
Moving your test because you are not ready
If the reason is that you do not feel ready, use the notice period to find out. The free diagnostic shows which topics are weak, and the free practice questions let you try a test-style run before you decide. Our guide to theory test cost and booking explains the £23 fee you would otherwise lose. theorytest.ai is independent and is not affiliated with the DVSA.
Frequently asked questions
How much notice do I need to change my theory test?
At least 3 full working days. Monday to Saturday count as working days; Sundays and public holidays do not.
Do I lose my money if I cancel late?
Yes, if you cancel within 3 full working days of the test date you lose the original fee, unless you qualify for a refund.
Who can get a refund for a short-notice change?
gov.uk lists illness or injury, bereavement, a school or college exam at the same time, and a stolen driving licence. You need proof.
How do I claim a refund?
Email DVSA at theorycustomerservices@dvsa.gov.uk with the subject "Unavoidable short notice cancellation", with proof and your details attached.
Can I change my theory test centre?
Yes. The gov.uk change service lets you move to a different test centre, as well as an earlier or later date.