Learners in Wales take the same DVSA car theory test as in England and Scotland, but you can take it in Welsh, and Welsh roads have some rules of their own.
The test is the same
- Multiple choice: 50 questions in 57 minutes; you need 43.
- Hazard perception: 14 clips; you need 44 out of 75.
- Book on GOV.UK for £23, with a provisional licence.
- Available in English or Welsh (or British Sign Language), with an English or Welsh voiceover if you ask when booking.
The full details are in the England guides: how to pass the theory test, booking and hazard perception.
What is different in Wales
- 20 mph default: since 17 September 2023, the default limit on restricted roads (usually those with street lights) is 20 mph, not 30. Councils have kept or returned some roads to 30 mph, shown by signs. Because 20 mph is the default, you may not see repeater signs.
- D plates: you may display red D plates (dysgwr, Welsh for learner) instead of L plates.
- Bilingual signs: road signs show Welsh and English; learn to read them quickly.
Learning to drive in Wales
- Apply for a provisional licence from 15 years 9 months and drive from 17.
- Drive with a supervisor aged 21 or over who has held a full licence for 3 years.
- Learners may use motorways only with an approved driving instructor in a dual-control car.
- For 2 years after passing, 6 penalty points cancel your licence.
Take a free Wales theory mock test to see where you stand.
Checked against official sources on 17 October 2026.