Where do I Go to Take my Driving Test?

Once you've been driving for a while and have logged up several hours of driving practice, you may feel that it is time to take your driving test. Most major towns and cities have a driving test centre, so it should not be too difficult to track down your local centre. But remember that in the UK you not only have to take the practical driving test, but also a theory test which also includes a hazard perception segment.

Find Your Nearest Centre

The easiest way to find your nearest test centre is to use the search facilities on the Driving Standards Agency website. You can take your test at any official test centre in the UK, but you will probably find it easier to use the most local centre. If you have two or three centres which are quite close to you, you can ask your driving instructor about their pass rates and how easy it is to drive on their test routes.

One important factor to consider when choosing your test centre is your experience of driving on their test routes. Your driving instructor will probably ask you early on which test centre you are planning on using, so that your lessons can be spent driving around the area which that particular test centre covers. If you opt for a test centre in a town you are unfamiliar with, you may be at a disadvantage in your test if you do not know the roads. Your test will always go better if you know what to expect.

The Theory Test

You will need to pass the theory test before you can take the practical. The Driving Standards Agency provides two practice theory tests on its website which you can use. They are designed to closely resemble the real test and it is a good idea to use them as a guide to whether you are ready to take your theory test. Unfortunately, the hazard perception part is not included in these online practice tests, but the best way to prepare for this section is by getting lots of real driving practice.

When you arrive at your theory test appointment, you must bring a number of items with you. You will need to turn up at least fifteen minutes early because the centre has to perform a number of checks. They will require your appointment letter or booking reference number to show that you should be there. They will also ask to see both your provisional paper driving licence and your photocard. However, if you only have an old provisional paper driving licence, you will need to bring your passport as well. Without these items you will not be able to take your test and your journey to the test centre will be in vain.

Once you have passed your theory test, you must pass your practical test within two years or you will need to retake your theory test. You will also need to keep your theory pass certificate in a safe place because you will be required to show it to your examiner when you take your practical test. You cannot take the practical test unless you have passed the theory.

When you book your practical test, you may have to wait for up to nine weeks to get an appointment. These times can vary around the country, so double check the approximate waiting times with your local centre or the centre you have chosen. You do not want your driving test to coincide with a holiday or other commitment, so it is best to plan ahead carefully.

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