Theory test vs practical test: what each involves, the order and the cost
Updated •6 min read
You pass the theory test first, then book the practical driving test, and you must pass the practical within 2 years of passing the theory. The theory test is a computer test of 50 questions and 14 hazard clips; the practical test is a drive of around 35 minutes with an examiner.
Theory test vs practical test at a glance
| Theory test | Practical driving test | |
|---|---|---|
| What it tests | Highway Code knowledge and spotting developing hazards | Safe driving in different road and traffic conditions |
| Format | Two parts on a computer: multiple-choice questions, then hazard perception video clips | Eyesight check, "show me, tell me" questions, general driving including independent driving, and a reversing exercise |
| Length | 57 minutes for the questions, then 14 clips | Around 35 minutes of driving |
| Fee (car) | £23 | £62 on weekdays, £75 evenings, weekends and bank holidays |
| Pass mark | 43 out of 50 questions and 44 out of 75 for hazard perception | No more than 15 driving faults and no serious or dangerous faults |
| Needed to book | A provisional driving licence | A theory test pass (you usually do not need to quote the certificate number) |
| How long the pass lasts | The pass certificate number lasts 2 years | You can start driving straight away when you pass |
The order: theory first
You cannot skip ahead. gov.uk says you can book your driving test when you have passed your theory test (gov.uk: driving test). The one common exception is upgrading an automatic car licence to a manual one, which does not need another theory test.
The driving test itself checks that you can drive safely and show that you know the Highway Code by the way you drive.
The theory test
The theory test has two parts that you book and take as a single test, and you must pass both (gov.uk: theory test).
- Multiple-choice questions. You have 57 minutes to answer 50 questions, and the pass mark is 43 (gov.uk: pass mark and result).
- Hazard perception. You watch 14 video clips and click when a hazard starts to develop. The pass mark is 44 out of 75.
A car theory test costs £23 (gov.uk: cost of tests). If you pass, you get a letter with a pass certificate number at the test centre. For a closer look at each part, see our guide to how many questions are in the car theory test and our hazard perception test guide.
The practical test
You can book the practical test when you have passed the theory test. The driving test costs £62 on weekdays and £75 in the evenings, at weekends and on bank holidays (gov.uk: cost of tests).
There are 4 parts to the driving test (gov.uk: driving test):
- An eyesight check, where you read a number plate from 20 metres for a new-style plate.
- Two "show me, tell me" vehicle safety questions.
- General driving ability, including 20 to 35 minutes of independent driving. The test does not include motorways.
- One reversing exercise: parallel parking, parking in a bay, or pulling up on the right and reversing.
You pass with no more than 15 driving faults and no serious or dangerous faults. You can carry on if you make a mistake, and it may not affect the result if it is not serious.
You must book the practical test yourself. It is against the law to book a car driving test for someone else, and your driving instructor is not allowed to do it for you.
What you need for each test
- Theory test: a UK photocard driving licence. If you have a paper licence, bring a valid passport as well. Arrive 15 minutes before it starts. Our guide to what to take to your theory test has the full list.
- Practical test: a car (most people use their instructor's), your UK driving licence, and the car must meet gov.uk's rules if it is your own. Your examiner checks that you have passed the theory test before the test starts.
Who does what next
- Not booked your theory test yet? Check the minimum age and apply for a provisional licence first. You must have a provisional licence to book.
- Passed the theory test? Book your practical test yourself, and do it within 2 years. Our post on the theory test certificate's two-year expiry explains what happens if it lapses.
- Failed the theory test? You must book and take the full test again, even if you passed one part, and wait at least 3 working days. See what to do after failing the theory test.
- Failed the practical test? You pay again and choose a date at least 10 working days away.
Practise before you book
You can try our free practice questions at any time, or take the free diagnostic to see which topics need work before you spend £23. You can also find test centres near you.
theorytest.ai is independent and is not affiliated with the DVSA. The figures above come from gov.uk, so check there before you book in case they change.
Frequently asked questions
Do I have to pass the theory test before the practical test?
Yes, for a standard car licence. gov.uk says you can book your driving test when you have passed your theory test. Upgrading an automatic licence to manual is the main exception.
How much do the theory and practical tests cost?
A car theory test costs £23. The driving test costs £62 on weekdays and £75 in evenings, at weekends and on bank holidays.
How long does the practical driving test last?
You drive for around 35 minutes. This includes 20 to 35 minutes of independent driving.
How many mistakes can I make in the practical test?
You pass with no more than 15 driving faults and no serious or dangerous faults.
How long do I have to take the practical test after passing the theory?
Your pass certificate number lasts for 2 years. You must pass your driving test in that time, otherwise you have to pass the theory test again.