How do I find a driving test cancellation at this centre?

To find a driving test cancellation at Bala, you can use a service like Find Me A Driving Test. They scan the DVSA website 24/7 for new test slots. This can help you secure an earlier test date than you might find through the standard booking system.

How busy is this driving test centre?

Bala Driving Test Centre has a pass rate of 60%, which is higher than the national average. This suggests it is a moderately busy centre with a consistent flow of tests, but well-prepared candidates have a good chance of success.

How early should I arrive at this test centre?

It is advisable to arrive at the Bala Driving Test Centre approximately 10-15 minutes before your scheduled test time. This allows you to check in, use the facilities, and mentally prepare for your test without feeling rushed.

How long does the practical test take here?

The practical driving test at Bala Driving Test Centre, like all others, typically lasts around 40 minutes. This includes various road conditions, one manoeuvre, and a period of independent driving.

Can a driving instructor sit in on the test?

Yes, your driving instructor can sit in on your practical test at Bala Driving Test Centre. This can be beneficial for your learning and for their understanding of your performance during the test.

How do I cancel or reschedule my test at this centre?

You can cancel or reschedule your driving test at Bala by visiting the DVSA website. You will need your driving licence number and booking reference. Ensure you give at least three working days' notice to avoid losing your test fee.

Bala Driving Test Centre: Practical Test Information

About Bala Test Centre

The Bala Driving Test Centre is situated at Unit 4 Penllyn Workshops, LL23 7SP, offering a distinctive test environment in Gwynedd. Test routes from Bala often encompass a blend of rural roads and the slightly more complex urban settings of nearby towns. Learners should prepare for varied road conditions, including narrow country lanes in the scenic Penllyn area, as well as junctions and pedestrian crossings within Bala itself. The test centre's location provides an excellent opportunity to demonstrate proficiency in handling different speed limits and reacting to diverse hazards, from agricultural vehicles to town traffic. With a pass rate of 60%, Bala stands above the national average, suggesting that candidates who are well-prepared for both rural and urban driving conditions have a strong chance of success.

Driving Test Cancellations at Bala

Finding driving test cancellations at Bala Driving Test Centre can be challenging due due to high demand. Learners often face long waiting times for practical tests. However, services like Find Me A Driving Test continuously scan the DVSA website 24/7 for new cancellations at Bala. This significantly increases the chances of securing an earlier test date. By monitoring the booking system around the clock, learners can receive notifications as soon as a suitable slot becomes available, helping them to take their test sooner.

Get cancellation alerts for Bala

Pass rate trend at Bala

Pass rate over time

Annual pass rate at Bala, from 2007-08 to 2024-25 (DVSA data).

Between 2007-08 and 2024-25, the pass rate at Bala has improved, moving from 37.9% to 61.1% (up 23.2 percentage points). It peaked at 61.1% in 2024-25 and was lowest at 37.9% in 2007-08, with a long-run average of 50.3%. 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	61.1%
2023-24	57%
2022-23	51.3%
2021-22	54.6%
2020-21	59.3%
2019-20	49.5%
2018-19	52.6%
2017-18	52.4%
2016-17	49.4%
2015-16	53.4%
2014-15	46%
2013-14	51.7%
2012-13	45.7%
2011-12	46.7%
2010-11	49.3%
2009-10	45.2%
2008-09	43.2%
2007-08	37.9%

Frequently asked questions