Changing a test
How to Change or Cancel Your Theory Test
Change or cancel a theory test at gov.uk/change-theory-test using your driving licence number and theory booking reference. You keep the £23 fee if you give at least 3 clear working days' notice — a gentler rule than the 10 days for practical tests.
Theory and practical tests are managed separately
The theory test has its own booking system, its own reference number and its own notice rule. Changing your theory test does not touch your practical booking, and the practical's two-change limit does not apply here. The two do connect in one important way: you need a valid theory pass certificate to book and sit the practical.
The 3 working day notice rule
To change or cancel without losing the £23 fee, give at least 3 clear working days' notice. As with practical tests, working days run Monday to Saturday, excluding Sundays and public holidays. Cancel or change any later and the fee is lost, and you pay again for a new booking.
| Theory test | Practical test | |
|---|---|---|
| Fee | £23 | £62 weekday / £75 evening, weekend, bank holiday |
| Free change/cancel notice | 3 clear working days | 10 full working days |
| Change limit | No two-change limit | 2 changes per booking |
| Where | gov.uk/change-theory-test | gov.uk/change-driving-test |
How to change it
Open the theory change service
Go to gov.uk/change-theory-test and sign in with your driving licence number and theory booking reference (in your confirmation email).
Pick a new date, time or centre
Theory centres are separate from practical centres and usually more numerous, so checking a couple of nearby towns often finds an earlier slot.
Confirm and keep the email
Save the new confirmation — you will need the reference for any further change.
Watch your pass certificate expiry
A theory pass certificate is valid for exactly two years from the day you pass, with no extensions. If it expires before your practical test, your practical booking is cancelled and you must pass theory again. When moving either booking, always check the practical date sits comfortably inside the certificate's life.
Frequently asked questions
How much notice do I need to change my theory test?
At least 3 clear working days (Monday to Saturday, excluding Sundays and public holidays) to keep your £23 fee.
Can I get my theory certificate extended?
No. The two-year validity is fixed in law and DVSA cannot extend it. If it expires you must pass the theory test again before taking the practical.
Do the 2026 practical booking rules apply to theory tests?
No. The two-change limit and centre restrictions apply to car practical tests. Theory bookings follow their own rules with 3 working days' notice.
Official sources
Related guides
Book a practical test
What you need, the fees, and when to book under the 2026 rules.
Change your test online
The complete step-by-step walkthrough of the GOV.UK change service.
Fees and DVSA contact
Every fee and official link in one place, with DVSA's phone line.