The driving licence you need
Before you can take the theory test you need to have a valid provisional driving licence. You can apply for a provisional driving licence from Driver & Vehicle Agency (DVA). You can get the DL1 application form from an MOT centre or directly from DVA by calling 0300 200 7861.
NI Residency
If you want to take a theory or practical driving test in Northern Ireland, it is a legal requirement that you must be normally resident in Northern Ireland. If you have a GB provisional licence and want to take a motorcycle, car, bus or lorry theory test here, before booking your test you will need to complete a residency declaration form and send it to DVA with proof you are resident in Northern Ireland.
Book online
The quickest and easiest way to book your official DVA car, motorcycle, lorry or bus driving theory test is online. When you book using this service, you only pay the cost of the test – there’s no extra booking fee.
To book a theory test online you’ll need:
- a valid UK driving licence with a Northern Ireland address
- a valid debit or credit card for payment (Visa, Mastercard, Delta, Visa Electron and Switch cards are accepted)
- a valid email address to receive a booking confirmation (optional - if you do not have an email address, your booking confirmation will be sent to you by post)
Book by phone
To book a theory test by phone, contact the DVA driving theory test booking line.
Lines are open from 8.00 am to 12.00 pm, Monday to Friday, except on bank holidays.
You will need:
- a valid UK driving licence with a Northern Ireland address
- a valid debit or credit card for payment (Visa, Mastercard, Delta, Visa Electron and Switch cards are accepted)
Book by post
To book a theory test by post you will need to download the following application form:
These forms are also available from theory and practical test centres or from your driving instructor.
Payment can be made by cheque or postal order but cash payments aren’t accepted.
Application forms should be sent to the address at the following link:
Cancel or reschedule a test
You can reschedule or cancel a test online using the link below or over the phone using the booking line.
Providing you give DVA three clear working days' notice, you can:
- move or change your appointment
- cancel your appointment
- have a full refund of the test fee
If you need to reschedule or cancel your test, you must allow at least three clear working days before your test date to avoid losing your fee. For example, to cancel a test booked for a Friday you must inform DVA on the previous Monday.
Theory test fees
Comments and complaints
To comment on or complain about the online booking service, you can contact:
phone: 0345 600 6700
email: customercare@pearson.com
Or you can write to:
Driver & Vehicle Agency
Booking Department
PO Box 1286
Warrington
WA1 9GN