Understanding the costs associated with obtaining your driving licence is crucial for effective planning. Here’s a breakdown of the current fees for theory and practical driving tests in the UK, as of 2025.
📘 Theory Test Fees
The theory test is a mandatory step before booking your practical driving test. The fees are as follows:
- Car and motorcycle theory test: £23
- Bus and lorry theory test:
- Part 1a (multiple-choice questions): £26
- Part 1b (hazard perception): £11
- Part 2 (case studies): £23
- Taxi driver theory test: £34
These fees apply when booking through the official DVSA service. Be cautious of unofficial websites that may charge higher fees.
🚗 Practical Driving Test Fees
The practical driving test assesses your ability to drive safely and competently. The fees vary depending on the time of day:
- Weekday (Monday to Friday):
- Car: £62
- Car and trailer: £87
- Taxi driver: £70
- Motorcycle, moped, tricycle: £80
- Motorcycle manoeuvres test: £45
- Lorry and bus: £87
- Tractor and other specialist vehicles: £65
- Evening, weekend, and bank holidays:
- Car: £75
- Car and trailer: £110
- Taxi driver: £95
- Motorcycle, moped, tricycle: £110
- Motorcycle manoeuvres test: £60
- Lorry and bus: £137
- Tractor and other specialist vehicles: Not applicable
These fees apply when booking through the official DVSA service. Be cautious of unofficial websites that may charge higher fees.
🔄 Changes and Cancellations
As of 8 April 2025, the DVSA requires learner drivers to provide 10 full working days’ notice to change or cancel a car driving test without losing the test fee. This change aims to reduce waiting times and make appointments available to other learners.
For other types of tests, such as theory tests, motorcycle tests, lorry and bus driving tests, and driving instructor qualification tests, the notice period remains at 3 full working days.
💳 Payment Methods
You can pay for your driving tests using:
- Debit or credit cards
- A pre-funded account (for driving instructors)
Ensure you have a valid payment method when booking your test.
🧠 Instructor Tip
“As an instructor, I advise all learners to budget for both the theory and practical tests, as well as any potential retests. Planning can help reduce stress and ensure you’re financially prepared for each stage of the licensing process.”
For more detailed information and to book your tests, visit the official DVSA websites:
