Can You Book a Driving Test on a Weekend? Saturday and Sunday Tests Explained
Weekend Driving Tests: What’s Available?
The short answer is yes — you can book a driving test on a Saturday. However, Sunday tests are not available through the DVSA. Saturday slots do exist at many test centres across the UK, but they come with a couple of important differences compared to weekday bookings.
Saturday and evening tests are classed as “non-standard” by the DVSA, which means they cost more than a regular weekday test. As of 2026, a weekday practical test costs £62, while a Saturday or evening test costs £75. The test itself is identical — same routes, same marking criteria, same duration — the only difference is the timing and price.
Why Choose a Weekend Test?
For many learners, a Saturday test is the only practical option. If you work full-time Monday to Friday, taking time off for a driving test isn’t always easy. Students with classes during the week face the same issue. A Saturday booking means you don’t have to rearrange your schedule or lose a day’s pay.
There’s also the argument that traffic conditions on a Saturday morning may be slightly calmer in some areas, particularly around school zones and business districts. However, this varies hugely by location — some town centres are actually busier on Saturdays due to shopping traffic.
Are Saturday Slots Harder to Get?
Generally, yes. Because weekend slots are in high demand (especially among working learners), they tend to fill up faster than midweek appointments. If you’re set on a Saturday test, you’ll likely need to book well in advance or keep a close eye on cancellation slots.
It’s worth noting that not every test centre offers Saturday testing. Smaller or rural centres may only operate Monday to Friday, so check availability at your preferred location on the DVSA booking portal before making plans.
What About Sunday Tests?
The DVSA does not currently offer driving tests on Sundays. This applies across all test centres in England, Scotland, and Wales. There have been occasional discussions about expanding to Sundays to help clear backlogs, but as of early 2026, no Sunday testing is available.
Tips for Booking a Saturday Test
If a weekend slot is what you need, here are some practical tips. Book as far in advance as possible — Saturday slots at busy centres can disappear within days of being released. Consider less popular test centres where Saturday availability might be better. And check for cancellations regularly, as people often reschedule and free up weekend appointments.
The Exam Routes app is a handy companion for this process. It gives you detailed information about test centres across the UK, including the routes examiners use, so you can prepare thoroughly regardless of which centre or day you book. Knowing your test routes in advance can make a real difference to your confidence on the day.
Is It Worth Paying Extra for Saturday?
The £13 premium for a Saturday test is relatively small in the context of overall learning costs. If taking a weekday off work would cost you more than that in lost earnings, or if it would cause logistical headaches, the Saturday option makes solid financial sense. The test standard is exactly the same, so your chances of passing aren’t affected by which day you choose.
