Book your practical driving test online
The Driver & Vehicle Agency (DVA) release Category B (private car) driving test appointments three months ahead. Appointments are released on the first working day of each month. You can book driving tests on Saturdays and at certain centres on Sundays.
Citroën C3 and DS3 models 'stop drive' recall
From 20 June 2025, motoring manufacturer Citroën has issued a 'stop drive' recall on its C3 and DS3 models built between 2009-2017 and 2018-19 due to an airbag issue.
If you own one of the affected models, the guidance from the manufacturer is to immediately cease using the vehicle. This includes using it for driving lessons or on a driving test.
Before being taken out for your test, driving examiners and supervising examiners will be using the Citroën safety recall checker to verify that any Citroën C3 and DS3 models brought for test have had the necessary repairs carried out. If the recall checker shows the repair still needs to be carried out, the vehicle will not be able to be used on test, unless verifiable documentation from the manufacturer (a recall sign-off) is provided by the vehicle presenter.
You can check if your car is affected using the Citroën online checker tool and entering the cars Vehicle Identification Number (VIN).
Cancelling a test
If you need to cancel a test due to the recall you will not lose your fee if you cancel your test before the 7 August 2025.
If you are unable to cancel your test by 7 August 2025, because you are inside the three days cancellation period, contact Customer Services at dva.customerservices@infrastructure-ni.gov.uk to arrange for a refund of your fee.
Before you start
Depending on demand, it may take a while before you can book and take a driving test. If at first slots are not available at your preferred test centre, you can consider booking a test at another centre. Keep checking the booking system as the DVA release more slots as more resources become available and some customers cancel or change their appointments.
It is strongly recommended that you wear a face covering during the test. This also applies to any observers or interpreters present. Face coverings will still be available and may be worn by examiners.
When booking a driving test online you’ll need:
- driver licence number and date of birth
- a debit or credit card
- a valid email address (check your spam/ junk folders for emails)
Evening and weekend appointments are charged at a premium rate.
Logging in
You only need to log into the service if you’re a large vehicle or large driving school operator that has signed an agreement with the DVA.
Special needs
The DVA offers facilities for candidates with special needs or physical disabilities.
If you are deaf, have severe hearing problems, are restricted in your movements, or have any disability that may affect your driving, call the number at the link below to book a suitable appointment.
When you book your test, let the operator know that you're calling about a ‘Driving test for a candidate with a disability’, and tell them if you:
- are deaf or have severe hearing difficulties
- are in any way restricted in your movements
- have any physical disability
If you are deaf, have hearing loss, tinnitus, or speech difficulties, you can use the Relay UK service to talk with anyone over the phone.
You can also email the Customer Services team detailing your circumstances and provide the requested information above.
No matter how serious your disability might be, you will still take the same driving test as every other test candidate. However, more time may be allowed for the test. This is to allow the examiner to talk to you about your disability and any adaptations fitted to your vehicle.
Book by phone
You can book a practical driving test for a private car or motorcycle by phone. Lines are open from 9.00 am to 5.00 pm Monday to Friday. Calls are charged at local rate.
You don't need an application form but it is advisable to have your provisional driving licence, your theory test certificate and credit or debit card details handy when making the call.
Northern Ireland residency
If you want to take a theory or practical driving test in NI, you must be normally resident in NI. If you have a GB provisional licence and want to take a motorcycle, car, bus or lorry theory test in NI, before booking your test you'll need to fill in a residency declaration form and send it to DVA with proof you're resident in NI.
You can find out how any personal information you send to the Department for Infrastructure (Driver and Vehicle Agency) when using this service will be handled by viewing their privacy notice.