Theory tests in England, Scotland and now Wales have restarted. Bear in mind that taking the theory test will require you to adhere to new safety and social distancing rules on test day:
On arrival at the test centre
First, you must come into the test centre by yourself to help maintain social distancing. In England, it is preferred that you also wear a face covering (so we strongly recommend you do), and you will only need to remove it briefly once so staff can check your face against your ID photo.
However, test centres do not want you to wear a mask if they may cause you problems, for example, exacerbate a respiratory condition.
In Scotland, you must bring and wear a face covering, unless you have a good reason not to. This includes if:
- you have a physical or mental illness or impairment, or a disability that means you cannot put on, wear or remove a face covering.
- putting on, wearing or removing a face covering would cause you severe distress.
Again, like England, you will be asked to remove your face covering briefly once so your face can be checked against your ID photo.
In Wales, you can wear a face covering if you want to. Do not wear one if you may find it difficult to manage, for example, you have a respiratory condition.
In the test centre
There have been several changes made that reduce risk plus ensure social distancing. These include:
- Floor markings to ensure you keep two metres apart from staff and other learners.
- Theory test workstations and chairs are now also placed two metres apart.
- Protective screens installed at reception desks.
- Hand sanitiser that should be used on arrival at the test centre, during the test itself, and on leaving the test centre.
- Antiviral wipes will also be made available so you can wipe your locker down before storing your belongings in it.
- Workstations (including computers and headphones) cleaned by staff before you use them.
- Workstations and chairs will be spaced so you’re two metres away from other people.
- Staff wearing face coverings and gloves (unless there is a medical reason they are unable to).
Theory test changes delayed
While new elements were set to be introduced to the theory test come 14 April, these have been delayed because of the COVID-19 outbreak. Theory Test Pro will let you know as soon as they are introduced. For now, you can read more about the planned changes here.
Who shouldn’t come for a theory test
The DVSA says you must not come for a theory test if:
• You or someone you live with has coronavirus symptoms.
• You have been told by the NHS Test and Trace service that you’ve been in contact with a person who has coronavirus.
• You have entered or returned to the UK in the last 14 days, except in very limited situations.
• You have to stay at home (self-isolate).
If you are self-isolating, you can change your theory test appointment here free of charge and at short notice (within 3 clear working days of the test).
Please remember if you are classified as clinically extremely vulnerable – your GP should have told you or you should have been sent a letter – you should wait until after August 1 before taking your theory test, or else you could be taking an unnecessary risk.
Again, if you have a test booked in before then, you can change it here.
Get Ready for Your Theory Test
