Driving Licence Cost UK (2026 Guide)
Driving Licence Cost UK Updated for 2026 – full breakdown of application fees, test prices, renewals and typical learner costs in the UK.
Getting your driving licence in the UK involves several fees including provisional licence cost, theory test fee, practical test fee, and ongoing renewal charges. This complete 2026 guide explains every cost in detail.
1. Provisional Driving Licence Cost (2026)
A provisional licence is required before you can start learning to drive.
- Online application: £34
- Postal application (D1 form): £43
Requirements:
- 15 years 9 months old minimum
- UK passport or identity document
- Address history for the last 3 years
Apply on GOV.UK: “Apply for provisional driving licence”.
2. Driving Theory Test Cost (2026)
- Car Theory Test: £23
- Motorcycle Theory Test: £23
- HGV / LGV Theory Test: £26
If you fail, you must pay again to rebook.
For more details, see:
Driving Theory Test Cost UK (2026 Guide) – /driving-theory-test-cost-uk-2026/
3. Practical Driving Test Cost (2026)
Weekday price: £62
Evening/weekend price: £75
Extended driving test (if previously disqualified):
- Weekday: £124
- Weekend/evening: £150
Important: The test fee does not include using your instructor’s car.
Typical instructor charges:
- Car hire for test: £60–£90
- Optional pre-test lesson: extra hourly charge
4. Driving Licence Renewal Costs (2026)
- 10-year photo renewal online: £14
- Renewal by post: £17
- Renewal age 70+: Free
- Change of address: Free
Renew on time to avoid insurance issues.
5. Total Cost To Get a Driving Licence in 2026
Most learners will pay between £1,100 and £1,400 in total.
Breakdown:
- Provisional licence: £34
- Theory test: £23
- Practical test: £62
- Lessons (30–40 hours at ~£30/hour): £900–£1,200
- Instructor car hire for test: £70
Passing quickly reduces overall cost significantly.
Once you have your licence, you must budget for additional costs such as insurance, MOT, servicing, and fuel.
Related guides:
- MOT Test Cost UK 2026 – /mot-test-cost-uk-2026/
- Car Service Cost UK 2026 – /car-service-cost-uk-2026/
- Car Insurance Cost UK 2026 – /car-insurance-cost-uk-2026/
6. Optional or Hidden Costs
- Fast-track ID check: £16
- Third-party booking websites: £20–£40 extra (avoid these)
- Lost licence replacement: £20
- Extra lessons before test: £30–£60 per hour
Always use the official GOV.UK booking site to avoid unnecessary fees.
7. After You Pass – MOT, Insurance & Car Checks
Before driving your own vehicle, you must ensure it has:
- Valid MOT
- Valid insurance
- Valid road tax
If buying a used car, check its MOT history.
See: How to Check MOT Status of a Car (2026) – /check-mot-status-uk-2026/
To understand insurance costs, see:
Car Insurance Cost UK (2026) – /car-insurance-cost-uk-2026/
8. FAQs – UK Driving Licence Costs (2026)
How many lessons do most people need?
DVSA says the average is 45 hours of lessons plus 22 hours of private practice.
Is it cheaper to learn with family?
Yes, but you still need professional lessons for test preparation.
Can I get financial help?
Some councils/charities offer support for young adults or job seekers.
Can I drive after passing before the full licence arrives?
Yes, as long as the DVSA has recorded your pass and you are insured.
