Driving Theory Test Centres in Chichester

Arriving at Chichester Theory Test Centre

By public transport

Chichester theory test centre is a solid choice, even for those learners who don’t hail from the city. That’s because it’s easy to reach by various modes of public transport.

Let’s start with train travel. From Chichester train station, it will take you around 15 minutes to walk to the test centre. Take South St, then North St, and then turn left onto Northgate Road.

If you’re not feeling a 15-minute walk through the centre of Chichester, take a bus instead. Hop off at either Orchard Avenue or Franklin Place bus stop. It’ll take you 1 or 2 minutes to reach the test centre on foot, respectively.

Those who desire a deeper understanding of the transport options serving this area can head to the Chichester District Council website for more information.

By car

If public transport ain’t your thing and someone is happy to give you a lift, tell them that the postcode of your destination is PO19 1BE. Hopefully they have access to a sat nav that can do the rest of the work!

Should you run into any issues, it’s useful to keep in mind that the centre itself is on the A286. It’s also just down the road from the West Sussex Fire Brigade Headquarters. Your theory test is taking place in Metro House, which is a large, rectangular, teal-coloured building with lots of windows. There’s also a handy sign labelled ‘Metro House’ on the grass out front.

Parking

The first thing to acknowledge is that there are no parking spaces provided by the test centre. This is very normal for test centres in general, so don’t consider this a strike against Chichester as an option. In fact, Chichester has a bunch of nearby parking options that are very affordable—which is not always the case when it comes to test centres!

The closest one is Northgate car park (PO19 6AA), which is a 2-minute walk from the centre and charges just £1.60 for 2 hours of parking. There’s also the option of the St Cyriacs car park (PO19 1AJ). This is a 5-minute walk away and charges a still-reasonable £2.60 for 2 hours of parking. 

Pass Rates by Year

The Chichester theory test centre has only been around for a few years, but in that time it has managed to sustain above-average pass rates. This is great news if impressive statistics provide you with an extra sense of security. We have to be honest, though—pass rates aren’t an indicator of how well you personally are likely to do if you take your test here. That all depends on how hard you work!

2015-16	2016-17	2017-18	2018-19	2019-20	2020-21	2021-22
N/A	52.3%	50.8%	50.1%	49.2%	60.5%	55.4%

Guides and Tips

Yes, dear learner, we’re afraid passing the theory test requires some hard work. The material you’ll be tested on is not particularly basic or obvious. Those heading into their test will need a strong understanding of the Highway Code. Plus, for the hazard perception section, you’ll be expected to spot developing hazards as soon as possible.

Fancy some extra help with this? Have a look at the useful resources we’ve listed below.

• Official DVSA Theory Test App for Android
• Official DVSA Theory Test App for iOS
• Safe Driving for Life
• Theory Test Rundown: What to Expect on the Day

Ready to Go?

Nearby Theory Test Centres

• Fareham
• Portsmouth

Hotels

What’s sleep got to do with it? Well, quite a lot actually. Getting plenty of sleep before your theory will help you feel fresh, focused and test-ready. If you don’t live in Chichester and want to avoid any test day drama, consider staying in a local hotel the night before. Here are a few we recommend:

Travelodge Chichester Central ★★☆☆☆

This place is just a 5-minute walk from the test centre and provides all the essentials you need for a good night’s sleep. Rooms are modern, bright and come decked out with a comfortable bed and even a desk where you can squeeze in some last-minute revision. Friendly staff are on hand to provide any (within reason!) extras you may require.

Chichester Inn ★★★☆☆

If you’d rather support a local, independent joint, you could always book a room at the Chichester Inn. This Grade II listed building dates back to 1785 and currently serves as a pub, hotel and live music venue. Along with a cosy place to lay your head, you can enjoy some traditional home-cooked food, free WiFi and a free parking space. A great package!

Apuldram Manor ★★★★☆

Those willing to travel a little further afield (we’re talking an 8-minute car journey) can be rewarded with a night’s stay in an area of outstanding natural beauty. Apuldram Manor, located by Chichester Harbour, is surrounded by lush fields and glorious views of the countryside. Rooms at this Jacobean farmhouse are exquisitely decorated in a tasteful, traditional style. Treat yourself to a little bit of luxury.

Places to Celebrate

The test being over doesn’t necessarily spell the end of your time in central Chichester. There are plenty of things to see and do—starting with lots of delicious food and drink options. Check out a few places that caught our eye:

The Bell Inn

This traditional pub is only a 4-minute walk from the test centre and offers a fine selection of real ales and traditional pub grub. Mix with the locals or find a nice quiet corner in which to relax—either way this pub provides the perfect atmosphere for a post-test wind down.

The Rocking Horse

Heading back towards the city centre, you can find this quirky wine and cocktail bar that’s perfect for those looking for more than a basic pint. The bar staff here take their roles very seriously and are sure to wow you with their ability to create weird and wonderful concoctions. Fresh, modern decor rounds off a very enjoyable experience.

The Foundry

Simply looking to grab a swift one before jumping on a train home? We hear that! You’ll find the Foundry pub perfectly located to provide such a service. Right by the station, this recently refurbished drinking hole has a great selection of world beers and some fine food for those feeling a little peckish. Stop by for a quick one or allow yourself to be pulled in by a sports game or even some live music.

What Happens Next?

Well, that pretty much covers all of the information you need to know to take your theory test in Chichester! If you’re ready and raring to go, we suggest booking your test in as soon as possible and using that 3-4 week wait time to revise like a pro!

If you don’t manage to pass your theory test on the first attempt, there’s no need to worry. Quite a few people find themselves in this position, so don’t feel bad. All you need to do is get yourself another test appointment and go over the information until you know it like the back of your hand. Our fingers are crossed that you’ll come out with a certificate the second time around!

Once you do clear the hurdle that is the theory test, the attention shifts to the practical side of things. Having the knowledge to take on the roads is all well and good, but you need to be able to put it into practice! Find a good instructor, organise some lessons and book your test. If you’re from this area, you’ll be pleased to learn that there is a practical test centre in Chichester.

At PassMeFast, we believe that intensive lessons are the best way to learn to drive. Our courses are efficient, enjoyable and available for learners of all experience levels. Pair one with a fast-tracked test and you’ll be well on your way to earning a driving licence in no time! To find out more, give us a ring on 0333 123 4949.

Ready to get started today? Click the button below to book your course!

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