How to Change Your Theory Test: Reschedule or Cancel Your Appointment
If you need to change your theory test appointment, this guide explains everything you need to know about rescheduling, cancelling, and getting a refund.
For a full list of theory test centre locations, visit the official DVSA find a test centre page .
How to Change Your Theory Test Appointment
You can change your theory test appointment online or by phone. You must give at least 3 full working days' notice.
| Working Days | Non-Working Days |
|---|---|
| Monday | Sunday |
| Tuesday | Public holidays |
| Wednesday | |
| Thursday | |
| Friday | |
| Saturday |
For official instructions, visit the GOV.UK change or cancel page .
What You Need Before You Start
To change your appointment online, you will need:
| Item | Where to Find It |
|---|---|
| Booking reference number | Your confirmation email |
| Driving licence number | On your photocard licence |
| Date of birth | As shown on your licence |
For help with your booking, contact DVSA :
📞 Telephone: 0300 200 1122
🕒 Monday to Friday, 8am – 4pm
Change or Cancel Your Theory Test Online
You can change or cancel your theory test appointment online using the official DVSA booking service .
| Action | Notice Required | Refund/Fee |
|---|---|---|
| Reschedule | 3+ working days | Free |
| Cancel | 3+ working days | Full refund |
| Reschedule | Less than 3 working days | No refund, must pay again |
| Cancel | Less than 3 working days | No refund |
Important: If you change or cancel by the deadline, your payment is carried over to your next appointment (for rescheduling) or refunded (for cancellation).
How Many Times Can You Change Your Appointment?
| Number of Changes | What Happens |
|---|---|
| Up to 10 times | You can reschedule online |
| More than 10 times | You must cancel your test and book a new one |
If you need to make more than 10 changes, cancel your existing test (with 3+ working days' notice for a refund) and book a new appointment.
If You Cannot Attend Your Test Due to Self-Isolation (COVID-19)
If you cannot attend your test because you are self-isolating:
Step 1: Email DVSA with the subject line 'COVID-19 short note cancellation'
Step 2: Include in your email:
-
Your full name (as on your driving licence)
-
Your address and postcode
-
Your date of birth
-
Your driving licence number OR test reference number
Step 3: DVSA will contact you to arrange a new appointment
You will not need to pay again.
Northern Ireland: Different Service
There is a different service to change your theory test in Northern Ireland .
| Region | Service |
|---|---|
| England, Scotland, Wales | DVSA (this guide) |
| Northern Ireland | DVA (Driver and Vehicle Agency) |
For Northern Ireland changes, visit the DVA theory test service .
Wearing a Face Covering at Your Test
A face covering is required at your theory test. If you do not wear one, you must have an acceptable excuse (e.g., medical exemption).
For more information, visit the DVSA test guidance .
NI Residency Requirement
To take a driving test in Northern Ireland , you must be a resident there. You will need to prove your residency by completing a declaration form for the Driver & Vehicle Agency (DVA) .
What to Bring to Your Theory Test
You must bring your photocard driving licence. You will not be admitted without it, and you will lose your booking fee.
| Accepted ID | Not Accepted |
|---|---|
| Photocard driving licence | Paper licence alone (must bring passport as well) |
| Passport (with paper licence) |
For full details, check the official test day guidance .
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: How do I change my theory test appointment?
A: Online through the GOV.UK booking service or by phone at 0300 200 1122.
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