What to take to your theory test and what happens on the day
Updated •4 min read
Take your UK photocard driving licence to your theory test and arrive 15 minutes before it starts. If you are late or bring the wrong ID, the test is cancelled and you lose your fee.
What to take
gov.uk says you must bring your UK photocard driving licence (gov.uk: what to take to your test). Other points from the same page:
- If your licence is from Northern Ireland, bring the photocard and the paper counterpart.
- If you have an old paper licence, bring a valid passport as well. Without a passport, you need to get a photocard licence first.
- If you changed your name after booking, bring proof such as a marriage certificate or deed poll. Without proof, you must cancel and book again in your new name.
- If you do not bring the right things, your test is cancelled and you do not get your money back.
If you have lost your licence, you need to apply for a replacement, which can take up to 15 days according to gov.uk. If it will not arrive in time, rearrange your test.
When to arrive
The page says you must arrive 15 minutes before your theory test starts (gov.uk: when you arrive). If you are late, the test is cancelled, you lose your fee and you must book a new test. There is no waiting area for people who come with you.
Before you go in
gov.uk lists these rules at the test centre (gov.uk: when you arrive):
- Turn off all electronic devices, including mobile phones, smart watches and fitness trackers.
- Put personal items in a locker: small bags, coats, hats, earphones, wallets, books, pens and anything in your pockets. Large bags are not allowed.
- Staff must be able to see your face to match it to your photo ID. Headgear worn for religious or cultural reasons must be removed, where possible in a private area.
- Staff carry out security checks for anything that could be used to cheat. If you refuse, you cannot take the test.
If you use a medical device, it is allowed only if DVSA approved it when you booked. If you did not declare it, cancel and rebook choosing support, which gets a full refund with at least 3 working days' notice.
What happens in the test
The test has two parts and you must pass both (gov.uk: theory test).
| Part | What happens | Pass mark |
|---|---|---|
| Multiple choice | 50 questions, 57 minutes | 43 out of 50 |
| Hazard perception | 14 video clips | 44 out of 75 |
You get your result at the test centre after the test (gov.uk: pass mark and result). Our guide to the questions and pass mark and the hazard perception explainer cover what to expect in each part. The question count and time come from gov.uk: multiple-choice questions.
Changing or cancelling your test
You must give at least 3 full working days' notice to change or cancel, or you will have to pay again. Monday to Saturday count as working days; Sundays and public holidays do not (gov.uk: change, gov.uk: cancel).
You can change or cancel online with your UK driving licence number, by phone on 0300 200 1122 (Monday to Friday, 8am to 5pm) or by email to theorycustomerservices@dvsa.gov.uk.
You may get a refund after short notice if you have an illness or injury that stops you taking the test, a bereavement, an exam at a school or college at the same time, or a stolen driving licence. Email DVSA with the subject "Unavoidable short notice cancellation" and include proof.
If you fail
You can rebook straight away for a date at least 3 working days away. See the theory test resit guide.
Warm up with a free diagnostic
If you want to check your readiness in the last days before the test, try the free theorytest.ai diagnostic. theorytest.ai is independent and is not affiliated with the DVSA.
Frequently asked questions
What ID do I need for the theory test?
Your UK photocard driving licence. With a paper licence, also bring a valid passport.
What happens if I am late for my theory test?
The test is cancelled, you lose your fee and you must book a new test. gov.uk says to arrive 15 minutes before it starts.
Can I take my phone into the theory test?
You must turn off all electronic devices before entering, and personal items go in a locker.
How much notice do I need to cancel?
At least 3 full working days, or you will have to pay again.