When it comes to booking the practical driving test, you will need your driving licence number, theory test certificate number and theory test pass date.
If you have lost your theory test certificate and do not have a copy of the theory test certificate number, you will need to contact the Driver and Vehicle Standards Agency (DVSA) who are responsible for practical driving test and theory test booking.
It is the DVSA who also issue theory test certificates and in the case of a lost theory test certificate can issue you a replacement.
The DVSA will ask for proof of identity and upon confirmation the DVSA will either issue you with a new theory test certificate or tell you what your theory test certificate number is.
Can you take the practical driving test if you have lost the theory test certificate?
Generally speaking yes. The test examiner normally only asks to see your driving licence. In the event of any complications it is recommended that you take along with you your theory test certificate and a print out of the driving test booking confirmation e-mail.
If you have lost your theory test certificate, go to the Gov.uk website where you’ll be asked for your driving licence number and your name. You’ll then be presented with your theory test pass number.
In our experience however, we have never had a examiner ask to see the theory test certificate. The examiner will check that you’ve passed your theory test before the practical test begins. It is important that you take with you your provisional driving licence to your practical driving test. Both parts of your licence must be taken;
- the plastic card licence
- the paper counterpart (if you have the old style licence)
If you have the old style driving licence, you will also need to take a valid passport for identification purposes. Failure to take these items will render your practical driving test terminated and a loss of the test fee. If your theory test certificate is stolen, the DVSA must be contacted immediately via the contact methods below.
Information for lost theory certificate
In the event that you have lost your theory test certificate, contact the DVSA between the hours of 8:00 AM to 6:00 PM Monday to Friday.
- Driver and Vehicle Standards Agency
PO BOX 381
M50 3UW - 0300 200 1122 Customer enquiries + Test booking
- 0300 200 1188 Customer enquiries
- Email: customercare@pearson.com
- Find your theory test certificate number: www.gov.uk
i have emailed about my certificate but i still have no reply. ive been told i dont need this for my practical but then ive been told you do. i still have not got a reply about this as i need my paper for my test.
Hello Cassie,
In my experience, you do not need your theory test pass certificate to take your practical test. However, just to be sure, perhaps try giving the DVSA a call on 0300 200 1122 and speak to someone directly in regards to obtaining your theory test pass certificate number.
Hii good afternoon i lost my theory certificate number can you help me please
MY Thanks
Hi Hani,
Can you follow the DVSA web link above for details on how to find your theory test number please.
I’ve lost my pass certificate but I have a photo, so I know the number. Will I still need to order a new certificate?
Hi Katie,
To avoid any potential of your driving test being cancelled on the day, I would recommend contacting the DVSA to have them officially clarify this.
I can’t get through to get a replacement theory test certificate
Hi Katy, You don’t need a replacement theory test certificate to take a driving test, the examiner will check that you’ve passed the theory before the practical test begins. If you need your theory test pass number, follow the links above.
I’ve been ringing DVSA for 3 months and still can’t get through to anyone!
I’ve emailed them several times and NEVER had a reply.
Will my son be able to take his driving test without his theory pass number?
Hi Diana,
Yes, they’re a bit of a nightmare at the moment aren’t they.
I have had several driving tests before now where the test candidate attended without their theory certificate / number. The provisional licence is the most important part and the examiner should be able to check on their system if they need to confirm a theory test pass. I can’t say that my experience is a guarantee to you, but if you hopefully get a sensible examiner then you shouldn’t have any problems.
Hi there , I have pass my theory test and my practical test but my instructor didnt apply for my driving license and I was away for while , so now I’m back I would like to get my license how do I that shall do everything all over again or I can apply for my license somewhere ? Thanks
Hi Maiwand.
This is something the examiner normally does once you’ve passed the test. You can do it yourself though. See:
Apply for your full driving licence
Ive lost my theory test sheet from when i passed. However have a photo of it with all the information. Will i need to contact the DVSA
Hi Keziah,
No, you do not need to contact the DVSA or arrange for a replacement certificate. When you take your practical driving test, the examiner will use your driving licence details to check on the DVSA database to ensure you have a valid theory test pass.