The UK practical driving test: cost, booking and what to bring in 2026

To get a full category B driving licence in the UK you must pass the practical driving test after the theory test. It checks whether you can drive safely in real traffic. Here are the official prices, the booking rules and what to bring.

How much does the test cost?

According to GOV.UK, the theory test costs £23 (the same on any day). The car practical test costs £62 on a weekday and £75 in the evening, at weekends and on bank holidays. Tests starting at 4:30pm or later count as “evening” tests and are charged at £75.

ADV · A003We build websites for tradespeople and sole traders — £219Customers see your work and prices and message you straight away. Ready in 3 days, £219 instead of £438.Advertise here

How far ahead does booking open?

New test slots are added 24 weeks in advance and are released at 6am every Monday. Earlier dates can appear at any time when another candidate reschedules or cancels. There is no official waiting list or cancellation list — you have to catch free slots in the booking system.

What do you need to bring?

Bring your provisional licence, proof you passed the theory test, and a car suitable for the test (this can be your instructor’s car). Without your licence the test will not go ahead. Check in advance that the car is insured for the test, roadworthy and meets DVSA requirements.

How do you know if you passed?

The test lasts about 40 minutes and includes driving in traffic, independent navigation and one manoeuvre. To pass you must make no serious or dangerous faults. A limited number of minor faults is allowed; too many of them counts as a fail. You are told the result straight after the test.

How do you book and reschedule?

Booking and rescheduling are done through the official service on GOV.UK. You will need your licence number and a bank card, and your instructor’s reference number if needed. You can reschedule without losing your fee if you do it in good time (the minimum notice is on GOV.UK); a late change or a no-show means you lose the fee.

Can you take the test in an automatic car?

Yes, but with a catch. If you take the test in a car with automatic transmission, your licence will be for automatics only. To drive a manual car you have to take a separate test in a manual. People who pass in a manual are allowed to drive automatics too.

What to do after you pass?

Straight after the test the examiner gives you a pass certificate. You can ask them to send your provisional licence to DVLA so your full licence is issued automatically — the new document arrives by post. From the moment you pass you can drive on your own, but remember the “new driver 2-year rule”: 6 penalty points in the first two years lead to your licence being revoked.