Welcome to PassMeFast’s comprehensive guide to the Bristol theory test centre! We’re about to delve deep and uncover everything you need to know about taking your test here. It’s actually the only theory test centre in the county, so likely to be the top option for most residents!
Read on to discover a plethora of useful information, including pass rates, wait times, local amenities and much more!
0333 200 1122 Please note: no direct phone number is available for this theory test centre.
By public transport
Before we get onto what happens at the test centre, let’s discuss how you’re going to get there. As you don’t have the ability to drive yet, we’ll go ahead and make the assumption that a lot of learners will be relying on public transport to get to the test centre.
Travelling by rail? The most convenient station to aim for is Bristol Parkway, which is a very convenient 7-minute drive from the theory test centre.
The most convenient public transport option overall, however, is likely to be a bus. Hop off at UWE The Gardens bus stop and you’ll only have to walk for 6 minutes before arriving at the test centre.
To learn more about transport options in Bristol, head over to the Bristol City Council website.
By car
Then again, maybe you know someone nice enough to drive you to your theory test. If this is the case, thank them by making the journey as straightforward as possible. You can start by letting them know that the test centre postcode is BS16 1EJ. You can hopefully let a sat nav take care of the rest!
Keep in mind that Bristol is a busy city, so heavy traffic can be an issue. If your test appointment falls around rush hours, be sure to leave yourself plenty of time to make the journey.
Parking
Unlike most theory test centres, this centre provides onsite parking for visitors. There are 20 spaces available, so you'll most likely be able to find a spot. It's worth noting that all of the other car parks on the business park are private and should not be used.
If you know anything about theory test pass rates, you’ll appreciate that the stats for Bristol are very good indeed.
Don’t let this make you too cocky, though—how you do on the theory test really boils down to how much revision you put in before you take it.
2015-16 | 2016-17 | 2017-18 | 2018-19 | 2019-20 | 2020-21 | 2021-22 |
51.2% | 51.1% | 52.2% | 51.6% | 50.5% | 57.9% | 56.3% |
Just like any other test, if you want to do well on your theory, you will need to put the work in. It’s not just basic driving knowledge that is being tested—you need to have a strong grasp of traffic signs and the Highway Code. There’s also the hazard perception test to consider. This can be a little tricky as it’s probably unlike any test you’ve taken before.
Check out the resources below to get an idea of the exact things you’ll be tested on when it comes to the big day and how you can prepare!
If you’re travelling into Bristol just to take your theory test, you could take some of the pressure off the day by staying in a local hotel the night before. Here are some nearby options we’ve found:
At a short 11-minute drive from the test centre, this Travelodge is an extremely convenient option for those keeping an eye on the pennies. For a very reasonable price you can get a clean, bright room with a king-size bed, shower and Freeview TV. Ideal if you’re only planning a short trip!
For a slight step up in terms of quality, you could also book in at the local Premier Inn. On top of all the basics for a good night’s sleep, you’ll also be treated to free WiFi and an onsite restaurant.
If you’re happy to splash a little more cash, get yourself a room at the Hilton Garden Inn. It sits just around the corner from the test centre. Rooms are comfortable, elegant and stylishly decorated. The higher price tag gets you access to extra amenities like a gym and room service.
Finished the theory test? Time to party! Or, rather, treat yourself to a drink or something to eat. Luckily, Bristol has plenty of nice places to try out. Here are a few we recommend:
The Rummer is an establishment that offers many things in one place. It’s a hotel, micro-distillery and cocktail bar. So, you’ll be hard pushed not to find something you like on the menu! Their cocktail bar in particular has won numerous awards, so we recommend letting their mixologists knock you up something tasty!
The Boardroom may not sound all that fun, but we can assure you that if you pop in here you’re likely to have a grand old time. It’s a large, lively bar offering up nice drinks, great food and even a board game or three! A great place to unwind after a potentially stressful day.
If you’re a fan of cider, we highly recommend that you make at least a pit stop at The Apple while you’re in town. This place is a haven for cider lovers and boat enthusiasts alike. Why? Because it’s a cider bar on a boat! There’s also quayside seating available for those who don’t enjoy being on the water.
That concludes pretty much everything you need to know to have a successful theory test day in Bristol. As we’ve mentioned, this is the only theory test centre in the county, so it’s a pretty safe option for Bristolians. With high pass rates and reasonable wait times, there isn’t much to complain about!
Sat the theory test but didn’t manage to earn a pass? You’re not alone! Over half of learners actually fail on their first attempt. Book a new test, do some more revision and really focus on the areas that you found tricky. It’s much easier the second time around—we promise!
If, on the other hand, you’re riding high because you have managed to pass your theory test, well done you! Now it’s time to start preparing for the practical test. To avoid long wait times hampering your progress, we suggest you get a test appointment booked nice and early. If you’re from this county, your local test centres will be Bristol (Avonmouth) and Bristol (Brislington).
Though we do say so ourselves, the best way to set yourself up for driving test success is to let PassMeFast do the hard work for you. We can find you an experienced, local instructor, book your tests and track your progress throughout your driving journey. Have a browse of our different course options online, or give us a ring on 0333 123 4949 for more information.
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