How much is the car driving test and how much is it going up in 2022?

Along with long waiting lists at test centres, learner drivers could soon be hit with a rise in  the cost of driving tests going up as the DVSA looks at charging more for the theory and practical test.

Here we look at how much both of these tests could be going up for drivers in 2022.

Booking your driving test could be more expensive soon (Credit: gdsteam)

How much are theory and practical driving tests at the moment?

Currently a theory test will cost £23 for a cars, with the practical driving test at £62. The costs for the likes of tests buses, lorries and motor bikes are listed further down this page.

Why are fees for driving tests going up?

At present, the increase in driving test fees are just proposed rises, but it is possible the price hikes will be brought in over the course of 2022.

The DVSA, which oversees driving tests, is attempting to modernise the testing system to help streamline the entire process, with updates such as giving examiners electronic tablets to speed up the recording of results – meaning driving licences arrive sooner – and to help reduce the potential for driving test fraud.

The agency is also planning to bring the theory test under its own roof – currently it is administered by a third-party operator. Bringing it in-house will make it “better and more flexible for customers” to use, according to the DVSA.

The increase in the uptake of electric vehicles will also mean theory and practical exams will need a shift in focus to reflect how using such vehicles will differ from motoring in petrol and diesel cars.

Why is the DVSA proposing to increase charges for driving tests now?

The DVSA says that fees for services such as driving tests have stayed largely the same for more than ten years. It points out the current test has not changed since 2009 when it was increased to £62.

The DVSA also points out that had prices kept pace with inflation, it would cost £75 rather than £62 for a driving test.

The agency has also claimed that failure to increase the cost of examinations will see the waiting list grow longer – with many learner drivers currently waiting up to six months to take their test.

Proposed price rises for the theory and practical driving test?

Fees for these tests are set out in law, so increasing them will need to be approved by parliament. The following tables set out the proposed changes that are likely to go before the house in 2022 – and then put into law if passed.

Motorcycle and moped driving test

Fee type	Current cost	Proposed cost
Replacement compulsory basic training (CBT) certificate	£20	£20.30
Theory test	£23	£23.40
Motorcycle module 1 (off-road) test	£15.50	£15.70
Motorcycle module 2 (on-road) test (weekdays)	£75	£76.10
Motorcycle module 2 (on-road) test (evenings, weekends and bank holidays)	£88.50	£89.80
Extended test for disqualified riders (weekdays)	£150	£152.30
Extended test for disqualified riders (evenings, weekends and bank holidays)	£177	£179.70

 

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