How to Cancel Your Driving Theory Test
If you have booked your driving theory test but can no longer attend, you should cancel your appointment as soon as possible.
Whether you have changed your plans, are not feeling ready for the test or have an unexpected problem, it is important to understand the cancellation rules.
This guide explains how to cancel your theory test, how much notice you need to give and when you may be able to get a refund.
1. How much notice do you need to give?
You must give at least 3 full working days’ notice to cancel your theory test without losing your test fee.
For this rule:
- Monday to Saturday count as working days.
- Sundays do not count.
- Public holidays do not count.
The three working days must fall before your test date.
For example, if your test is on a Friday, you would normally need to cancel by the previous Monday to give three full working days’ notice, provided there are no public holidays.
Important: This is the rule for theory tests. The longer 10-working-day notice period applies to car practical tests, not theory tests.
2. How to cancel your theory test online
The easiest way to cancel your appointment is through the official GOV.UK service.
You will need your UK driving licence number.
Follow these steps:
- Visit GOV.UK – Cancel your theory test.
- Select the option to start the cancellation service.
- Enter your driving licence details.
- Follow the instructions to find your booking.
- Check the appointment details before confirming the cancellation.
- Keep a record of the cancellation for your own reference.
Always use the official GOV.UK service rather than an unofficial booking website.
3. What happens if you cancel at short notice?
If you cancel within the three full working days before your test, you will normally lose the original test fee.
However, DVSA may consider a refund if you have to cancel at short notice for certain unavoidable reasons.
These include:
- An illness or injury that prevents you from taking the test.
- A bereavement.
- Having to take an exam at school or college at the same time.
- Having your driving licence stolen.
You will need to provide evidence to support your reason for cancelling. A refund is not automatic.
4. How to request a refund after a short-notice cancellation
If one of the qualifying circumstances applies, you can email DVSA to request a refund.
Use this email address:
theorycustomerservices@dvsa.gov.uk
Use the following email subject:
Unavoidable short notice cancellation
Explain why you could not attend and attach evidence where appropriate.
Examples of evidence include:
- Illness or injury: A fit note or medical certificate from a healthcare professional, such as your GP.
- School or college exam: A letter from your school or college confirming the exam date and time.
- Stolen driving licence: The crime reference number and the contact name of the police officer dealing with the matter.
- Bereavement: Supporting information relevant to your circumstances.
You should include the following details in your email:
- Your full name, as shown on your driving licence.
- Your address and postcode.
- Your date of birth.
- Your driving licence number or theory test booking reference number.
- The reason you had to cancel.
- Supporting evidence.
DVSA will review your request and let you know whether a refund has been approved.
If you were sick for seven days or fewer, you may have to pay for a private medical certificate.
5. How to contact DVSA about cancelling your test
If you cannot cancel your theory test online, or you need help with your booking, contact DVSA.
Email: theorycustomerservices@dvsa.gov.uk
Telephone: 0300 200 1122
Opening hours: Monday to Friday, 8am to 5pm.
You may be asked for your full name, date of birth, address, driving licence number and booking reference.
6. What if you need to book another theory test?
If you have cancelled your appointment and want to take the test at a later date, you can make a new booking through the official service.
You will need to pay the test fee again if you did not qualify for a refund.
Visit GOV.UK – Book your theory test to choose another appointment.
Before booking, make sure you have enough time to revise and practise. It is better to give yourself time to prepare properly than to rush into another test.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I cancel my theory test and get my money back?
You can normally get your test fee back if you cancel with at least three full working days’ notice. If you cancel at shorter notice, you may still qualify for a refund in certain unavoidable circumstances, such as illness, bereavement, a school or college exam, or a stolen driving licence. You will need to provide evidence.
Does Sunday count as a working day?
No. Monday to Saturday count as working days, but Sundays and public holidays do not.
Does the 10-day cancellation rule apply to theory tests?
No. The 10-full-working-day notice rule applies to car practical tests. Theory tests still require three full working days’ notice.
Can I cancel my theory test by phone?
If you cannot use the online service, you can contact DVSA by telephone on 0300 200 1122 or by email at theorycustomerservices@dvsa.gov.uk.
What if I simply do not turn up?
If you do not attend your test, you will normally lose your test fee. If you know you cannot attend, cancel as soon as possible and contact DVSA if you have an unavoidable reason for missing the appointment.
Official Information
For the latest cancellation rules and refund information, use the official government website:
Cancel your theory test – GOV.UK
FQ Driving Academy is an independent driving education resource and is not affiliated with DVSA. Last reviewed: November 2026
Need more help? Visit our Theory Test Revision section for advice and free resources to help you prepare for your next theory test.