Driving Test Booking Checklist: What You Need Before You Book

When a good practical test slot appears, you may only have minutes to take it. Having everything ready beforehand makes the difference between getting the date and missing it. Use this checklist before you start.

1. A passed theory test

You cannot book a practical car test until you have passed your theory test. Keep your theory test pass certificate number handy. Your theory pass is valid for two years, so make sure you take your practical test within that time.

2. Your driving licence number

You need your provisional driving licence number. It is on your licence. You must also be old enough to take the test.

Also check: where you have lived

GOV.UK says you must have lived in England, Wales or Scotland for at least 185 days in the last 12 months before the day you take your test.

3. A card to pay the fee

You pay when you book. At the time of writing, the official fee for a car test is £62 on a weekday and £75 for evenings, weekends and bank holidays. Check the current fees on GOV.UK, and never pay a third party more than the official fee for a slot.

4. The type of test

Decide whether you are taking your test in a manual or an automatic car. If you pass in an automatic, your licence only allows you to drive automatics. Your instructor can help you decide.

5. Your instructor's reference number (optional)

If you want your instructor to be available on the day, you can add their reference number when you book. The system then checks their availability. Adding or removing it later does not count as one of your two changes.

6. Your choice of centres and dates

Write down, before you start:

• The test centres you are happy to use, and how far you can travel.
• The dates and times you can do, including weekdays if you can take time off.
• That moving to a different centre later is limited to the centre you first booked or one of the three nearest to where your test is booked.

7. A booking you make yourself

Since 12 May 2026, only the learner can book their own test. Make sure you have your own login details and an email address you can access.

8. After you book

• Keep your confirmation email and booking reference.
• Note the date for cancelling with a refund: at least 10 full working days before the test.
• On test day, bring your photocard driving licence and arrive in good time.

Not sure you are ready? Our article on finding an earlier date explains why you should not rush a date you are not prepared for.

Frequently asked questions

What do I need to book my driving test?

Your driving licence number, your theory test pass certificate number and a card to pay the fee. An instructor's reference number is optional.

How long is a theory test pass valid?

Two years. You need to pass your practical test within that time.

Can I get a refund if I cancel?

Generally yes, if you cancel at least 10 full working days before the test.

Sources: GOV.UK: Book your driving test, Change your driving test, Cancel your driving test, Driving test cost, Theory test pass. DVSA bulletins of 17 and 26 March 2026 and the DVSA Despatch blog posts of March and May 2026.

Booking rules change. This article was checked against GOV.UK and DVSA announcements in October 2026. Always confirm the current rules on GOV.UK before you book, change or cancel a test. SlotBrowser is an independent service and is not affiliated with the DVSA or any government agency.