What to bring to your driving test

Preparing for your practical driving test and wondering what you need to bring… There are three essential items:

• Your UK driving licence.
• Your theory pass certificate, if you have it (you do not need to get a replacement if you’ve lost it).
• A car.

You may also be wondering if you need another form of ID or more paperwork. To save you some stress in the days building up to the test, we’ve got you covered. First thing, are you taking the test in your own car or your instructor’s?

What do I need to take to my driving test in my own car?

The UK government confirms over 1,600 people were not allowed to take their driving test in July 2024 because they brought an unsuitable car, forgot their driving licence or were late.

If you’ve decided to take the test in your own car, there are a few extra considerations compared to if you were in your instructor’s:

• You have valid insurance*.
• The vehicle is taxed.
• The car is in roadworthy condition and no dashboard warning lights are flashing.
• All headlights, brake lights and indicators are working.
• The car has a valid MOT certificate if it is over three years old.
• The tyres are up to standard, with legal tread depth.
• The car has four wheels and can reach 62mph on a valid speedometer.

*You’ll need valid learner driver insurance to take the test. Once you have passed, this will no longer be valid so if you’re planning on driving home, make sure you have a valid full policy in place. Temporary car insurance could be perfect for this as it will get you home, giving you the chance to find the right annual policy.

You’ll also need to make sure your car has the following:

• L plates fitted to the front and back of the car.
• An interior rear-view mirror for the examiner. You’ll need one, too!
• All seatbelts are working and there is a head restraint on the passenger seat.
• Turn off any in-car cameras that record audio and make sure n

Check with your local test centre if you have any concerns or questions. They will be able to confirm if there are any issues with the validity of your car. If your car does not meet all of the rules, you will not get a refund.

Do I need my theory test certificate for my driving test?

You will need to have passed your theory test before taking your practical driving test. If you have your certificate on you, you may have to present this to your examiner ahead of taking the test. 

The theory test certificate contains important information including your name, driving licence number and its expiry date. If you don’t take your practical test within two years of passing your theory, you will have to resit your theory test.

If you lose your theory test certificate, it’s important to get it replaced as soon as possible. Contact the Driver and Vehicle Standards Agency (DVSA) and request a replacement. You’ll need to provide your full name, date of birth and provisional driving licence number. Once you’ve done this, you’ll receive a digital replacement via email.

If you’re based in Northern Ireland, you will need to contact the Driver and Vehicle Agency (DVA).

Do I need to take my passport to my driving test?

While it’s always worth taking a valid form of ID wherever you go, you only need to take your passport to your practical test if you don’t have a photocard licence. You will have to show your passport alongside your paper licence.

Now you know what to bring, you can focus fully on your final driving lessons. Getting some extra private practice with our learner driver insurance will help you master manoeuvres and gain even more confidence on the road. You can also read our advice on managing driving test nerves and what to expect from the ‘show me, tell me’ questions.