Theory test centres

This page features a list of all theory test centres in the UK, offering access to their detailed guides.

If you are planning to take your test at the nearest driving theory test centre, you’ll find all information you need in our guides, including:

• Address & contact details

• Directions & map

• Test pass rates by year

• Other nearby centres

• Test structure and more.

Need a quick overview? Let’s dive right in!

How to choose the right theory test centre?

Clearly, the theory test is a crucial step toward becoming a fully qualified driver and earning your driving licence.

Therefore, learner drivers focus on choosing the right spot for their UK driving theory test to increase their chances of passing.

There are numerous points to consider when it comes to theory test locations. For example, you can check test pass rates of a particular centre to evaluate how others performed there in previous years.

In addition, you can decide your centre based on its location, transportation options, and available facilities around.

Check our detailed guides now to learn more about the theory test centres near you!

Pass rates for theory test centres in the UK

Just like in practical test centres, pass rates are a significant factor for learners when deciding the theory test centre.

Here are some interesting statistics.

According to GOV data between April 2023 and March 2024, the theory test pass rate for car learner drivers is 45.2%.

Of course, the pass rate has fluctuated quite a bit over time, reaching its peak at 65.4% in 2007/08 and 2008/09.

Take a look at the theory test pass rate based on car theory test data from 2018:

• 2018 - 48.7%
• 2019 - 47.3%
• 2020 - 47.1%
• 2021 - 55.7%
• 2022 - 50.1%
• 2023 - 44.2%
• 2024 - 45.2%

As you can see, supporting data shows that over half the learner drivers fail their UK theory test. Obviously, the test success all comes down to solid preparation of candidates. 

By practicing with reputable courses and exclusive exercises, you can give yourself the best chance to pass the first time.

Speaking of courses…

Practice for your test with theory test courses

If you want to ace your driving theory test at first attempt, practicing with engaging courses pays off.

Drivings.com offers comprehensive theory test courses to help you easily master the ins and outs of the theory test.

Our courses include complete and user-friendly material, including:

• Hazard perception clips

• Mock tests

• Interactive video tutorials

• Video case studies

• Progress tracking

• Expert support

You can simply select the vehicle and service type to customize your lessons, from car to motorcycle, LGV, and PCV.

During your theory test lessons, you can access well-structured classes organized into clear sections.

With material tailored to all learning styles, both written and visual, you can practice at your own pace and gain the knowledge you need to pass.

Start learning with our theory test courses and take a confident step toward passing your driving theory test.

What to expect on the theory test?

The theory test is designed to assess your driving knowledge and hazard perception skills.

Evaluating your up-to-date understanding of road traffic in the UK, the test is the first step toward obtaining a full UK driving licence.

Therefore, you need to fully understand the format of the test. Here’s what you’ll face:

The theory test is divided into two parts: a multiple-choice section and Hazard Perception. To pass, you need at least 43 out of 50 in the multiple-choice and 44 out of 75 in Hazard Perception. 

You have 57 minutes to finish the multiple-choice section of the UK theory test. Remember, you can revisit and change your answers, so leave enough time to review them before submitting.

On multiple-choice questions, the test covers the following DVSA topics:

• Accidents
• Alertness
• Attitude
• Safety and Your Vehicle
• Other Types of Vehicle
• Rules of the Road
• Hazard Awareness
• Documents
• Road and Traffic Signs
• Vulnerable Road Users
• Vehicle Loading
• Motorway Rules
• Vehicle Handling
• Safety Margins

Don’t forget to bring your provisional driving licence with you and try to arrive at your theory test centres early enough.

If you pass, you’ll be given a pass certificate at the test centre, which is valid for two years. During these two years, you can book a practical test to finalise your licence journey.

Faq

Can you take your theory test anywhere in the UK?

You can take your theory test at any centre you’d like. Check this page for all theory test centres across the UK and choose among the nearest theory test centres for taking your test.

How long is the wait for the theory test in the UK?

Depending on the location, theory test wait times typically range from 1 to 4 weeks at most theory test centres.

Is the UK theory test hard?

According to current data, half the learner drivers fail their theory test during the most years of the last 10 years. So, we can say that the theory test is challenging and requires solid preparation and understanding of driving rules.

What is the pass mark for the theory test?

The theory test pass mark is 86%. This means you need to score 43 out of 50 multiple-choice questions. Also, the hazard perception test pass mark is 44 out of 75. You have 57 minutes to answer all the multiple-choice questions. If you're unsure about any question, you can flag it and review it later.