Driving Theory Test Centres in Manchester

With its location a stone’s throw away from the hustle and bustle of the city, Manchester theory test centre is a handy option for both local residents and out-of-towners. Keep reading if you want to know pass rates, contact details, directions to the centre and more!


Address

Red Block 5, Universal Square Devonshire Street North Ardwick Manchester Greater Manchester M12 6JH

Phone Number

0333 2001122 Please note: no direct phone number is available for this theory test centre.

Map


Arriving at Manchester Theory Test Centre

By public transport

Manchester is known as the beating heart of the North, so, as you’d imagine, there are plenty of options when it comes to public transport. Buses, trams, trains—it’s got ‘em all. The centre itself is only a 4-minute walk for Ardwick train station. Alternatively, from Piccadilly station (which is much larger and well-connected) it’s a 24-minute walk to the test centre.

If you’d rather hop on a bus, the closest stop is Devonshire Street, which is an 8-minute walk from the test centre. For more detailed information on transport routes, visit the Transport for Greater Manchester (TfGM) website.

By car

Getting to Manchester theory test centre by car is fairly straightforward—enter M12 6JH into your sat nav and follow the instructions! If you’re coming from outside of Manchester, you’re likely to find yourself on the Mancunian Way (A57/A635). From here, turning onto the A665 will bring you to the test centre.

Parking

The closest parking opportunities include Baring Street (M1 2PY) which will set you back £2.50 for 2 hours. You could also park at the nearby Curry's which is a 15-minute walk away and free of charge, but you do need to be a customer to park there.

Pass Rates by Year

As this theory test centre serves a major city, a high number of people select this location. The pass rate for this centre sits just under under the national average. This information is handy if you want to see where your results lie in terms of the location’s overall stats, but it’s not a reflection of the quality of the centre. Remember, everyone sits the same test—it’s the work of the individuals answering the questions that determines the stats!

2015-16 2016-17 2017-18 2018-19 2019-20 2020-21 2021-22
51.3% 49.3% 48.6% 46.8% 45.0% 51.5%  49.7% 

*In May 2017, the Manchester theory test centre moved to Universal Square. Previous years’ pass rates are those of the Piccadilly location.

Guides and Tips

What’s the best way to ensure success in the theory test? Study, learn and revise, of course! We’ve put together a short list of some great resources that can aid you in this task. Check them out below:

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Nearby Theory Test Centres

Hotels

Nothing sets you up to take on a test like a good night’s sleep. If you want to maximise your chances of heading into test day with a clear head and focused mind, it might be worth checking into a nearby hotel the night before the test. You certainly won’t be short of options in this bustling city. Check out some of our top picks:

Macdonald Manchester Hotel★★★★☆

You definitely can’t go wrong with Manchester’s largest 4 star hotel. Ideally situated in the city centre, right next to Piccadilly station, this spa hotel is the perfect place to unwind and calm your pre-test nerves. With an on-site steakhouse, technogym and luxury amenities, you won’t need to venture outside for anything!

Pendulum Hotel★★★☆☆

With free WiFi, modern, comfortable rooms and very reasonable prices, the Pendulum hotel is a great option if you’re looking for convenience and comfort. Its central location means the city is right on your doorstep and you have easy access to public transport. There’s also an onsite restaurant for those times you feel a little peckish!

Travelodge Upper Brook Street Manchester★★☆☆☆

If you just want somewhere convenient to lay your head and aren’t bothered about anything too fancy, this Travelodge will do the job. Within walking distance from Manchester’s famous Curry Mile, this place is perfect for a basic, no-frills short stay.

Places to Celebrate

Ready to celebrate your theory test success in style? You’re in the right city! From laid back bars to fancy cocktail joints, Manchester has a little something for everyone. Here are a few places we recommend:

Port Street Beer House

Fancy yourself as a bit of a beer connoisseur? You can’t leave town without grabbing a drink at Port Street. With friendly, knowledgeable staff and a huge selection of beers from all over the globe, this is a little slice of heaven for anyone who takes their hops seriously.

Cloud 23

If sipping on sophisticated cocktails while enjoying panoramic views of the city sounds right up your street, head to the Hilton hotel on Deansgate and take the lift all the way up to their famous Cloud 23 bar. With beautiful surroundings and a sumptuous bar menu to boot, this is a great spot for raising a glass to your big accomplishment!

Piccadilly Tap

Want to celebrate but don’t have much time? If you’re leaving by train, why not grab a pint just outside of the station? Piccadilly Tap is in an ideal location for anyone with a train to catch. Use your remaining minutes wisely by enjoying one of their fine ales or delicious wines. It would be rude not to, right?

What Happens Next?

Situated near the centre of one of the North’s most exciting cities, Manchester theory test centre is a great option for anyone wanting to take their test in the north-west. Once you’ve earned that pass certificate and had a chance to explore the local bar scene, what comes next? Well it’s time to take on the practical!

To kick things off you can use your theory test pass number to log into the online booking system and select a time slot for your practical test. If you would like more information on what to expect from here, check out our full guides to the Cheetham Hill and West Didsbury practical test centres.

If you don’t pass the theory test first time, do not get into a flap about it. First off—you are not alone. Plenty of people slip up on their first try. Secondly, it’s super simple to book yourself in for another go. You will have to wait 3 working days before you sit another theory test, but that just gives you some extra revision time. Now you know what to expect, it should be easy peasy!

Whether you pass first time or need another go, PassMeFast has your back. We’ve got a wide range of helpful articles on our website, brimming with advice on how to prepare for both tests. If you fancy speaking to someone directly about anything related to your driving journey, you can contact our friendly sales team on 0333 123 4949. They can offer general advice, recommend which course is right for you and fast-track your driving test. Web-savvy and already know what you want? Hit the button below!

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