If you have lost your driving theory test certificate, there’s no need to panic as you usually don’t need this to take your driving test. In this blog, we explain what you need to know if you lose your theory test certificate.
Do I need my certificate to book my practical test?
No, you do not need your theory test certificate to book your driving test. When you book your practical, you have to enter your driving licence number to proceed. At this point, the Driver and Vehicle Standards Agency (DVSA) system automatically checks that you have passed your theory test.
Of course, you still need to pass your theory test, including the hazard perception section, to be able to take your practical test, but you do not need the theory test certificate to book it.
In some rare cases, the DVSA might ask you to verify your theory test pass certificate number in order to proceed with your driving test.
Even in this situation, you do not need the physical certificate; if you have the certificate number, you can simply provide this to the DVSA and proceed with your driving test. If you’ve lost the certificate number, it’s a good idea to get in touch with the DVSA, who will be able to assist you with your query. You can find the DVSA’s contact details on this page. Make sure that when you contact them, you have the following information close to hand:
- Full name (as it appears on your driving licence)
- UK driving licence number
- Date of birth
How long does my theory test certificate last before it expires?
Your theory test certificate will last for two years from the date you passed the test. You will not receive a reminder that your theory test is expiring so it is a good idea to make a note of the date you passed.
Do I need the certificate when I take my driving test?
If you’re taking the car driving test, you do not need your theory test certificate. So if you’ve lost your certificate, don’t worry; you don’t need to do anything. Before the test begins, your examiner will check that you’ve passed the theory test.
If you’re taking any other type of driving test, you might be asked to show the certificate. If this applies to you, get in touch with the DVSA and they can provide you with a letter to take to your driving test instead of your certificate. You can use the contact details on this page to get in touch.
Make sure you have the following information close to hand when you contact them:
- Full name (as it appears on your driving licence)
- Address
- Driving licence number
- Date of birth
Do I have to send my test pass certificate to the DVLA in order to get my full driving licence?
No. When you pass your practical driving test, the Driver and Vehicle Licensing Agency (DVLA) will send you your full licence automatically.
After the test, the examiner will take your provisional photocard driving licence, give you a driving test pass certificate, and arrange for DVLA to send you your full licence.
As long as you have valid insurance in place, you can start driving as soon as you’ve passed the practical test. You can use the driving test pass certificate to prove you’ve passed while you wait for the full licence to arrive.
What happens if I lose my driving licence? Does the DVLA charge for this?
You will need to replace your full or provisional driving licence online with the DVLA if it’s been lost, stolen, damaged or destroyed. The replacement will cost you £20. If you subsequently find your old licence, you must return it to the DVLA.
Insurance for learner drivers and drivers who have just passed
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