Coronavirus (COVID-19): driving tests and theory tests – Update for test bookings and theory test certificates
Theory test certificate expiry dates will not be extended
If your test was cancelled at short notice
You can apply for a refund of out-of-pocket expenses if your:
- theory test was due to take place on or before Monday 23 March 2020
- driving test was due to take place on or before Tuesday 24 March 2020
Theory tests
Theory tests are suspended up to and including 20 April 2020.
You’ll get an email to tell you that your test has been cancelled.
You’ll automatically get a refund. You’ll get an email to confirm this has been done – this may take a few weeks to arrive.
You’ll then have to book a new theory test for a date and time after 20 April 2020 that suits you.
You can still book, change or cancel tests for 21 April 2020 onwards.
Driving tests
Driving tests are suspended for up to 3 months.
You’ll get an email to tell you that your test has been rebooked. It will tell you the new date and time of your test. There’s a different process if you’re a driving instructor or trainer and booked tests for your pupils.
You will not get this email immediately – it should arrive around 2 weeks before your original test date.
In the meantime, do not call the DVSA customer service centre. They will not be able to help you.
It’s likely that your new test date will be around 3 months after your original date.
If you want to cancel your test
You can cancel your test if you want to get a full refund now. Email the Driver and Vehicle Standards Agency (DVSA) to request this.
You need to include your full name and 2 of the following pieces of information:
- your driving licence number
- your theory test pass certificate number
- your driving test booking reference
DVSA customer services
[email protected]
You cannot book a future driving test date
If you have not booked a driving test, you’ll be unable to do so at the moment.
When driving tests start again, priority will be given to people who had their test cancelled. This means you will have to wait longer than usual.
Check back for the latest updates.
If your theory test certificate expires soon
Legally, your theory test certificate cannot be extended in any circumstances.
You’ll need to book and pay to take another theory test.
You need to pass this before you can book your driving test.
If you’re a driving instructor or trainer who booked tests for your pupils
If you’ve booked car driving tests for your pupils which have been cancelled, you’ll be emailed with a new date.
If you’ve booked any other types of tests for your pupils which have been cancelled, your business will get a refund. You will need to rebook the tests when the booking service is available again.