Booking your UK driving test can feel daunting—but it doesn’t have to be. Whether you’re eager to get on the road or just want to avoid delays, this straightforward guide covers exactly how to book your test and prepare properly to boost your chances of passing first time.
Step 1: Check If You’re Eligible
Before booking, make sure you meet these basic requirements:
- You’re at least 17 years old.
- You have a valid provisional driving licence.
- You’ve passed your theory test.
✅ Tip: As soon as you pass your theory, speak to your instructor about when you might be ready for the practical test and consider booking in it advance—slots go fast!
Step 2: How to Book Your Driving Test
Where to Book:
Only use the official GOV.UK website: 👉 www.gov.uk/book-driving-test
What You’ll Need:
- Your UK driving licence number
- Your theory test pass certificate number
- A debit or credit card (Fee: £62 weekdays / £75 evenings & weekends)
Pro Tip: Use cancellation apps to find earlier test slots if needed. (speak to your driving instructor first)
Step 3: Choose the Correct Test Centre
Familiarity = confidence.
Stick to a centre near where you’ve done most of your lessons. You’ll already know:
- Local speed limits
- Common tricky spots (roundabouts, tight junctions, hill starts)
- Traffic flow patterns
This reduces surprises on test day.
Step 4: What Documents to Bring on Test Day
- Your provisional driving licence
- Your theory test certificate
- A car that meets DVSA standards (your instructor’s car is fine!
- You can check your own car at www.gov.uk/driving-test/using-your-own-car
Step 5: How to Prepare for the Practical Driving Test
1. Master Core Driving Skills:
- Manoeuvres: Parallel parking, forward and reverse bay parking, pulling up on the right.
- Independent Driving: Following sat-nav directions or road signs.
- Show Me, Tell Me Questions: Know the vehicle safety Q&A.
2. Take Mock Tests:
Practice full mock driving tests under test conditions with your instructor. Helps manage nerves and iron out mistakes.
3. Learn local road knowledge:
Familiarise yourself with common routes around your test centre. Pay attention to tricky roundabouts, junctions, and speed limit changes.
Step 6: Prepare Your Mindset
- Rest well the night before.
- Visualise driving confidently.
- Arrive 10 minutes early on test day.
- Bring everything you need—double-check your documents!
Quick Recap:
✅ Check eligibility
✅ Book through GOV.UK
✅ Choose an appropriate test centre
✅ Gather required documents
✅ Perfect key skills & routes
✅ Stay calm, focused, and ready
Ready to Pass First Time?
Accelerate your success—watch our Driving Lessons at Home videos for expert tips, visual demos, and proven techniques to pass confidently.