Situated right at the heart of the city, Preston theory test centre is a convenient option for anyone in the Lancashire area. At just a stone’s throw from the main train station, you should have no problem making it to your test on time! Use this guide to find out more information, including pass rates, local amenities and more.
0333 200 1122 Please note: no direct phone number is available for this theory test centre.
By public transport
Preston theory test centre is very handily located just 9 minutes from Preston train station by foot. This is why it’s a great choice, even for those who aren’t from the Preston area itself. If you’re arriving at Bamber Bridge train station, which is slightly further out of town, we’d recommend taking a taxi to the test centre. This should take around 14 minutes.
There’s also the option of taking a bus. You’ll find that both the Ring Way bus stop is a 1-minute walk from the test centre.
For more information on the transport links in the area, hop online and explore the Preston City Council website. You’ll find information on everything from bus timetables to parking.
By car
Speaking of parking, if you’re lucky enough to be driven to the test centre, it should be a pretty straightforward journey. Tap PR1 2QD into a sat nav and hit the road! As this is a fairly busy city, be prepared for some traffic build-up—particularly around rush hour. You should bear this in mind when selecting a time for your test.
Parking
The theory test centre itself doesn’t provide parking, but you’ll find some great options very nearby. Trinity Square car park is only 4 minutes from your destination and charges a very reasonable £2.10 for 2 hours of parking.
Whether you pass or not is really down to how you perform on the day–not the test centre. The test is going to be the same format no matter where you take it. Going somewhere with a high pass rate doesn’t necessarily mean you’re more likely to pass. The current pass rate is still above the national average, so the Preston theory test centre is hardly in the red zone!
| 2015-16 | 2016-17 | 2017-18 | 2018-19 | 2019-20 | 2020-21 | 2021-22 |
| 49.7% | 48.9% | 48.7% | 48.1% | 47.3% | 55.3% | 52.6% |
Passing your theory test requires you to put some work into learning the material. You’d be surprised how many people think they can blag their way through and are then surprised when they fail! Taking the test costs money and time, so why would you want to risk having to take it multiple times? Study, revise and take it seriously. If you’d like some help you can always use some study tools. Check out some great options, below.
The best way to prepare for success is to get a great night’s sleep. Show up to your test rested and recharged and you should be good to go! We’d even suggest spending the night before your test in a local hotel–if you’re not from the Preston area, of course. Here are a few hotels we recommend:
The Ashwood Hotel is conveniently located right in the centre of Preston and just a 12-minute walk from where you’ll be taking your test. Rooms are clean, comfortable, and best of all, affordable. They even throw in a free full English breakfast–just what you need to start test day off right!
You know where you stand with a Holiday Inn. This one’s less than 6-minutes from the test centre and offers free WiFi, gym facilities and an on-site bar & grill. Basically, everything you need for an enjoyable evening, without having to leave the building!
Looking for something a bit fancier? This place will knock your socks off. Newly opened in December 2018, the Winckley Square Hotel provides luxurious accommodation in one of the most beautiful parts of the city. With rooms named The Chalet and J’Adore, you know you’re in for a treat! Book early to avoid being disappointed.
Theory test done and dusted and ready to hit the town? We like your style! Preston is a great city in which to enjoy a bite to eat or a couple of drinks. Before heading back home, be sure to try out some local hotspots. Here are a few we like the look of:
Fives is a cocktail bar and grill with a great atmosphere and bags of style. Depending on the time you’re visiting, you could sample a delicious brunch, treat yourself to a cheeky afternoon cocktail, or bop away to whatever tracks the DJ’s throwing down! Basically, there’s a good time to be had here, no matter the time of day.
This funky wine bar boasts fresh and exciting dishes, cool decor and a great selection of wine and beers. There are some great deals to be had on both food and drink, so it’s also a fun choice if you’re watching the pennies!
We know that sometimes you just want a nice pint in a good old pub. No muss, no fuss. Fishers provides exactly that. Nice pub food, a great selection of drinks, and a laid-back, informal atmosphere.