The real route

Theory test cost, and the practical test fees that follow

Short answer: The car and motorcycle theory test costs £23, according to GOV.UK, checked 4 October 2026. Lorry and bus theory costs £26 for part 1a, £11 for part 1b and £23 for part 2. The practical car test costs £62 to £75. Nothing sold on WhatsApp replaces these.

Last reviewed: · By Mark Dent

Key facts, checked 5 October 2026
  • Car and motorcycle theory test: £23.
  • Lorry and bus theory: £26 (part 1a), £11 (part 1b) and £23 (part 2).
  • Practical car test: £62 to £75.
  • If you turn up without the right ID, the test is cancelled and the fee is not refunded.

The fees

TestFee
Car or motorcycle theory£23
Lorry and bus theory, part 1a£26
Lorry and bus theory, part 1b£11
Lorry and bus theory, part 2£23
Practical car test£62 to £75

Figures are from GOV.UK. Added together, the three lorry and bus parts come to £60 if you sit them all.

Booking rules

Book through GOV.UK with your licence number, an email address and a card. Both tests need you to have lived in England, Wales or Scotland for at least 185 days in the last 12 months. It is against the law to book a car driving test for someone else. New practical slots are released at 6am on Mondays, 24 weeks ahead, and cancellations appear all week. Upgrade tests are booked by phone to DVSA on 0300 200 1122.

On the day

Take your photocard licence. Paper licence holders also need a valid passport, and a changed name needs proof such as a marriage certificate or deed poll. Without the right items the test is cancelled and you do not get your money back. If you have a reading difficulty, a health condition or a disability, say so at booking: GOV.UK lists headphones in English or Welsh, staff reading and recording answers, BSL support and extra time with evidence.

Where the scams sit

Because slots are scarce, fake booking services thrive; the scheme is in driving test booking scams. Fake pass certificates are in fake theory test certificates.

Myth and fact

MythFact
“A paid pass is cheaper than sitting it.”The car theory test is £23; fake pass offers run to hundreds.
“I can send someone to sit it.”DVSA reported a serial impersonator sentenced to 14 months.

The provisional licence comes first: see provisional licence fee.

Frequently asked questions

How much is the theory test?

£23 for a car or motorcycle, according to GOV.UK (checked 5 October 2026).

How much is the HGV theory test?

Part 1a is £26, part 1b is £11 and part 2 is £23.

Can someone book my driving test for me?

No. It is against the law to book a car driving test for someone else.

What happens if I forget my licence on test day?

The test is cancelled and you do not get your money back, according to GOV.UK.

How much is the practical driving test?

£62 to £75, depending on the day and time, on GOV.UK.

Can I get help with reading or language?

Say so when you book. GOV.UK describes headphones in English or Welsh, staff reading questions, BSL support and extra time.

About the author
Written by Mark Dent from official GOV.UK guidance, UK legislation and public reporting. We do not sell, issue or arrange any licence or document, and we are not part of DVLA, DVSA or any government body. See our editorial policy or report a mistake.