How to Book a Driving Test: Step-by-Step Guide for 2026

Booking a practical driving test is straightforward once you know what to expect. Here is a step-by-step walk-through for 2026. Remember that you must book your own test, so these are steps for you to take yourself.

Step 1: Check you are ready to book

You need to have passed your theory test, and be old enough to take the practical test. Check your theory pass is still valid: it lasts two years. See how long your theory test pass is valid.

GOV.UK also 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.

Step 2: Gather what you need

• Your driving licence number.
• Your theory test pass certificate number.
• A card to pay the fee.
• Your instructor's reference number, if you want it added (optional).

Our booking checklist covers each item.

Step 3: Use the official service

Go to the official booking service on GOV.UK. Be careful with search results, as adverts for other sites can appear above it. Read about booking scams.

Step 4: Enter your details and choose the test

You will be asked for your licence number and to choose the type of test, such as a car, and whether you will take it in a manual or automatic car. See manual or automatic test.

Step 5: Choose a centre, date and time

Pick the centres you are happy to use and look at the available dates. Remember that moving to a different centre later is limited to the centre you first booked or one of the three centres nearest to where your test is booked. Read how to choose a test centre.

Step 6: Pay and confirm

Check your details carefully before you pay. The fee is set by DVSA and depends on the day and time, and you should not pay anyone extra for a slot. See how much a driving test costs.

Step 7: Save your confirmation

You will receive a confirmation with your booking reference. Keep it, and note three dates: the test date, your refund deadline (10 full working days before the test) and your theory pass expiry date.

Step 8: Prepare for test day

Talk to your instructor about final preparation, and read our test day checklist.

If you cannot find a date you like

Dates can be months away. See why waiting times are so long and finding an earlier date.

Frequently asked questions

Can I book my driving test online?

Yes, using the official service on GOV.UK. You need your licence number and theory pass certificate number.

Can someone else book it for me?

No. Since 12 May 2026 only the learner can book.

What do I do after I book?

Save the confirmation, note your refund deadline and the theory pass expiry date, and plan your final lessons.

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 and fees change. This article was checked against GOV.UK and DVSA announcements in October 2026. Always confirm the current details 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.