Quick Overview
Changing, cancelling, or checking a practical driving test means managing the booking already made with the DVSA. It can involve moving the date, switching the test centre, or cancelling for a refund.
This guide covers:
✅ What it means to change or cancel a test
✅ Common reasons learners reschedule
✅ The rules for refunds and deadlines
✅ How to look for earlier test dates
✅ What happens if the DVSA cancels a booking
Booking your practical driving test is an exciting milestone—but sometimes life happens. Maybe you’re not feeling ready, your instructor is unavailable, or something urgent has come up. Whatever the reason, the good news is: you can easily change, cancel, or view your driving test online in the UK.
This guide walks you through everything you need to know about managing your practical driving test appointment, including how to reschedule it, the rules around cancellations, and what to expect after making changes.
Why You Might Need to Change Your Driving Test
There’s no shame in needing to reschedule. In fact, the DVSA (Driver and Vehicle Standards Agency) offers a flexible system to manage your booking. Here are some common reasons for making changes:
- You or your instructor aren’t available on the test date
- You don’t feel confident or ready yet
- You’re ill or dealing with a personal emergency
- There’s a clash with work, school, or another appointment
- You want an earlier test date (due to a cancellation opening up)
Whether you’re postponing or bringing it forward, changing your driving test online is quick and easy—as long as you meet the timing rules.
How to Change, Cancel or View Your Practical Driving Test
The official way to manage your test booking is through the GOV.UK website. Don’t be tempted by unofficial third-party services that charge unnecessary fees.
✅ Here’s what you’ll need:
- Your UK driving licence number
- Your booking reference number (from your confirmation email)
- Optionally, your driving instructor’s ADI number if you want to check their availability
🔗 Official Link to Manage Your Test:
👉 https://www.gov.uk/change-driving-test
This page allows you to:
- Change your test to a different date, time, or test centre
- Cancel your test
- View your current test details
- Rebook if your test was previously cancelled
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Rules for Rescheduling Your Driving Test
The DVSA has clear guidelines on when and how you can change or cancel your test:
⏳ Change your test at least 3 working days before
You must give at least 3 full working days’ notice if you want to:
- Move your test to a new date
- Change your test centre
- Cancel your test without losing your fee
For example, if your test is on a Friday, you must reschedule by Monday at the latest.
💸 What if you miss the deadline?
If you change or cancel with less than 3 working days’ notice, you’ll lose your fee (usually £62 for a weekday or £75 for evenings/weekends).
The only exceptions are if:
- You have a medical emergency (evidence required)
- A close relative has died
- You’ve been affected by bad weather or DVSA cancellations
How Many Times Can You Reschedule Your Test?
There’s no official limit to how many times you can reschedule your test—as long as you do it in time.
Some learners change their test multiple times until they feel 100% ready. Just make sure you don’t wait too long between attempts or forget to show up!
Can You Book an Earlier Test Date?
Yes! If you’re looking for an earlier slot, you can:
🔍 Use the ‘Change Your Driving Test’ page regularly
The DVSA site updates regularly with cancellations and new slots, especially in early mornings or late evenings.
📱 Use an App or Cancellation Checker (Optional)
While not officially endorsed by the DVSA, some apps and services help find earlier slots for a small fee. Be careful though—some are scams or offer poor value.
What Happens After You Change or Cancel?
Once you make changes via GOV.UK, you’ll receive a confirmation email. It’s crucial to:
- Check the new date, time, and location
- Inform your driving instructor ASAP
- Update your calendar and make any travel arrangements
If you’ve cancelled, you can rebook whenever you’re ready—your old booking reference becomes invalid, so save your new one.
Viewing Your Practical Driving Test Details
To check your current booking, visit:
🔗 https://www.gov.uk/view-driving-test
You’ll need:
- Your driving licence number
- Your booking reference or theory test number
This lets you double-check:
- Test date and time
- Test centre location
- Whether your instructor is listed
- Any special requirements
Special Circumstances: Illness, Emergencies, or COVID-19
Life can be unpredictable. If you’re suddenly ill or dealing with a serious issue, the DVSA may offer some flexibility—but you must contact them directly with evidence.
In some cases (e.g. COVID-19 symptoms, bereavement, hospitalisation), you may be allowed to reschedule without losing your fee, even after the 3-day deadline.
To contact the DVSA:
- Call 0300 200 1122 (Mon–Fri, 8am–4pm)
- Or use the DVSA contact page
Tips for Rescheduling Smartly
If you’re thinking about changing your test date, keep the following tips in mind:
✅ Don’t rush just to get it over with
It’s better to reschedule than fail. If you’re unsure about your readiness—take more lessons and rebook when you’re confident.
✅ Check test centre availability early
Some centres have long waiting lists. If your preferred centre is fully booked, consider neighbouring ones.
✅ Avoid peak times (school holidays, bank holidays)
Slots go quickly and instructors may be unavailable. Aim for off-peak hours where possible.
✅ Coordinate with your instructor
Always speak with your instructor before making changes—they may already have other tests or students booked.
What If the DVSA Cancels Your Test?
Occasionally, your test might be cancelled by the DVSA due to:
- Staff illness
- Poor weather
- Vehicle issues (if using a DVSA car)
In such cases, you’ll be offered a free rebooking and your fee will be refunded or carried over. You may also claim compensation for out-of-pocket expenses (e.g. fuel, time off work).
Can You Cancel and Get a Refund?
Yes—as long as you give at least 3 working days’ notice, you’ll receive a full refund automatically to your original payment method.
If you cancel later than that, unfortunately, no refund will be given, unless you fall under one of the exceptional circumstances mentioned earlier.
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Final Thoughts
Changing, cancelling, or checking your driving test is simple and stress-free—if you know how to do it and follow the rules. The DVSA makes it easy to manage everything online, but you must act promptly to avoid fees or missed opportunities.
Whether you’re adjusting your date to feel more prepared, avoid a scheduling clash, or grab an earlier slot, use the official GOV.UK site and keep your instructor in the loop.
Quick Checklist Before You Reschedule:
✅ Is it at least 3 working days before the test?
✅ Do you have your licence and booking reference?
✅ Have you checked with your instructor?
✅ Are you using the official GOV.UK site?
Getting ready to book or reschedule your driving test?
Take a deep breath, plan ahead, and trust yourself. The road to passing your test may take a few twists—but you’re steering in the right direction.
