Can I change my test to this centre after booking?

Yes, you can change your test centre after booking through the DVSA website. Ensure you choose Durham Driving Test Centre as your preferred location, subject to availability.

What are the test routes like at this centre?

Test routes at Durham typically include a mix of urban roads, residential areas, and main roads with varying speed limits. Be prepared for roundabouts, crossroads, and pedestrian crossings.

What identification do I need to bring?

You must bring your provisional driving licence. If you have an old-style paper licence, you'll also need to bring a valid passport.

Are there parking facilities at this test centre?

It is advisable to check directly with the Durham Driving Test Centre regarding specific parking arrangements for test candidates. Street parking might be available nearby, but it's best to confirm.

What manoeuvres might I be asked to perform here?

During your test at Durham, you could be asked to perform one of the following manoeuvres: parallel park at the side of the road, park in a bay (forward or reverse), or pull up on the right-hand side of the road and reverse for two car lengths.

What happens if it's raining or icy on test day?

Driving tests usually proceed in most weather conditions, including rain. However, in severe weather like heavy snow or ice, the DVSA may cancel tests for safety. You will be contacted if your test is cancelled, and you can rebook without charge.

Durham Driving Test Centre - Book Your Driving Test

About Durham Test Centre

Durham Driving Test Centre is conveniently located at Unit 10C, MarMion House, Maingate, Durham, DH1 1SA, making it easily accessible for learners across the county. The centre is situated in an urban area, providing a diverse range of driving conditions for test candidates. Expect test routes to incorporate busy town roads, residential streets with potential hazards, and some faster-paced main roads connecting different parts of the city. Examiners will be looking for a high standard of driving in varied traffic situations, including intersections, roundabouts, and pedestrian crossings. With the general driving test pass rate in the North East of England being around 49.3% in 2022/2023, Durham

Driving Test Cancellations at Durham

Finding an earlier driving test at Durham Driving Test Centre can be challenging due to high demand. Learners often face long waiting times for practical tests. However, cancellations do occur, offering opportunities for those ready to take their test sooner. Find Me A Driving Test constantly scans the DVSA booking system 24/7 for new test slots and cancellations specifically at Durham, increasing your chances of securing an earlier appointment that fits your schedule. Stay prepared and let us help you find that ideal test date quicker.

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Pass rate trend at Durham

Pass rate over time

Annual pass rate at Durham, from 2011-12 to 2024-25 (DVSA data).

Between 2011-12 and 2024-25, the pass rate at Durham has declined, moving from 60.1% to 49.6% (down 10.5 percentage points). It peaked at 62.6% in 2020-21 and was lowest at 48.1% in 2023-24, with a long-run average of 58.1%. Pass rates vary year-to-year due to changes in test demand, examiner availability, candidate readiness and local route difficulty — these figures are taken directly from DVSA's published statistics.

Year-by-year pass rate

Year	Pass rate
2024-25	49.6%
2023-24	48.1%
2022-23	55.7%
2021-22	62.5%
2020-21	62.6%
2019-20	56.9%
2018-19	60%
2017-18	59.6%
2016-17	60%
2015-16	60.5%
2014-15	60%
2013-14	60.7%
2012-13	57.1%
2011-12	60.1%

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