Theory test: cars
When you arrive at the test centre
You must arrive 15 minutes before your theory test starts.
If you’re late for your test, it will be cancelled and you’ll lose your money. You’ll then have to book another test.
There is no waiting area at the test centre for any adults or children who come with you.
Before you enter the test centre
You must turn off all electronic devices before you enter the test centre. This includes:
- mobile phones
- smart watches
- fitness tracking devices
You will not be allowed to take your test if you bring a device you cannot turn off.
Monitoring devices for medical conditions
You can use your monitoring device for a medical condition, but the Driver and Vehicle Standards Agency (DVSA) must have approved this when you booked your theory test.
If you did not tell DVSA about your monitoring device when you booked your test, you need to cancel your current theory test appointment. You will get a full refund if you give at least 3 working days’ notice.
You can then book a new theory test appointment. When you start your booking, select ‘Yes’ when asked if you need support when you take your test.
Personal belongings
You can only take personal belongings into the test room if they were approved by DVSA when you booked your test.
You must store your personal items in a locker. These include:
- small bags (do not bring large bags with you)
- coats and jackets
- hats or caps
- earphones
- mobile phones
- watches
- wallets and purses
- books and pens
- anything in your pockets
If your test centre does not have lockers, you must put your belongings in a clear plastic box that will be given to you. The box will be kept in a safe place while you take your test.
Identity and security checks
You’ll need to pass identity and security checks before you can take your theory test.
Identity checks
The test centre staff will need to see your face so they can check you’re the person in your photo ID.
If you’re wearing headgear for religious or cultural reasons, you’ll need to remove it so your face can be seen. You’ll be allowed to do this in a private area with a female member of staff where possible.
Security checks
The test centre staff will check if you have anything with you that could be used to cheat at the test. You will not be allowed to take your test if you do not let them check.
They will not touch you during the security check, but they will ask you to:
- show your pockets are empty
- roll up your sleeves
- pat yourself down
- show the top of your socks
- stay still while they pass a handheld metal detector around you
- show them your ears to make sure you do not have a hidden earpiece
It’s illegal to cheat at the theory test. You can be sent to prison and banned from driving.