Driving Theory Test Centres in Bournemouth

You’ve landed on PassMeFast’s complete guide to the Bournemouth theory test centre. Learners living in and around eastern Dorset should listen up! We’re delving into everything you need to know before taking your theory test in this charming seaside town.

Keep reading to discover things like wait times, pass rates, local amenities and more!


Address

3rd Floor, Roddis House Old Christchurch Road Bournemouth Dorset BH1 1LG

Phone Number

0333 200 1122 Please note: no direct phone number is available for this theory test centre.

Map


Arriving at Bournemouth Theory Test Centre

By public transport

So, you’ve decided that Bournemouth theory test centre might be the best choice for you. First on the agenda, then, is how are you going to get there? Of course, if you live in the town, it might be a case of a quick stroll from your house. Learners living a little further afield, though, may need to navigate the local public transport.

Taking the train in? It’ll take you around 20 minutes to walk from Bournemouth train station to the theory test centre. If you were hoping to be dropped off much closer to your final destination, we recommend getting a bus instead. Disembark at the Bournemouth Square bus stop and you can be at your test in less than a minute!

For more information on Bournemouth public transport, check out the Bournemouth Council website.

By car

Some learners are lucky enough to get a lift from someone else to their theory test appointment. If you’re one of them, let the driver know that the postcode you’re aiming for is BH1 1LG. Warn them in advance that Old Christchurch Road, where the test centre is located, is pedestrianised. The closest they will be able to drop you off is Gervis Place, which is just around the corner.

Parking

If you’re also being driven home after your test, it might make sense for the person driving you to park their car for a while. Now, they won’t be able to park at the test centre itself, as this does not provide parking, but there are various options nearby.

The closest option is The Square car park (BH2 6EJ), which is only a 4-minute walk away. The problem is this does not come cheap. For 2 hours of parking you will be charged £5, which is a little steep, if you ask us! Those in agreement can always try The Eden Glen car park (BH2 5AU) instead. This is 6 minutes away but charges a much more reasonable £2.50 for 2 hours of parking.

Pass Rates by Year

The pass rates at Bournemouth theory test centre may be going down, but they still sit a couple of points higher than the national average. Plus, if you think about it, the theory test is going to be the same wherever you take it! The location of your test has little to no impact on your result. Stats like these reflect wider trends, and so shouldn’t really be used as an indication of how well individual learners might fare here.

2015-16 2016-17 2017-18 2018-19 2019-20 2020-21 2021-22
51.0% 50.8% 50.5% 49.5% 49.2% 56.1% 56.5%

Guides and Tips

What does have a bearing on how well you do in your theory test is how much revision you do. We recommend that all learners gain a strong understanding of exactly what the theory test requires of them. Remember, there’s a multiple choice section and a hazard perception test, and you must pass both parts to earn that pass certificate. Revise the relevant material and take plenty of mock tests.

The resources in the list below will really help with this process!

Ready to Go?

Nearby Theory Test Centres

 

Hotels

It is really important that you try to get a good night’s sleep before the day of your test. If you’re planning to travel into Bournemouth on the day, you might consider actually booking into a local hotel the night before. That way you can wake up fresh faced and ready to head to the test centre without worrying about traffic delays! Here are some nearby options:

Prime Backpackers Bournemouth ★★☆☆☆

If you’re on a budget, this safe and friendly hostel is a great place to stay. You can choose from the option of a shared dorm room or a private room and the staff will be more than happy to answer any questions about the local area you may have. The best news? It’s only a 4-minute walk from the theory test centre!

Premier Inn Bournemouth Central★★★☆☆

For a slight step up from a hostel, you can also check out the local Premier Inn. This one is located just 5 minutes around the corner from the test centre, on Westover Road. Rooms are bright, airy and clean and you can enjoy a few extra perks like free WiFi and an onsite restaurant. Perfect for an overnight pit stop!

The Norfolk Hotel ★★★★☆

If convenience is your number one priority, then you simply must book a room here. The Norfolk Hotel is only a 2-minute walk from the test centre, so you should have no trouble making your test on time! This is an elegant, 4-star hotel, so you can expect high quality service along with some luxury amenities. Rooms are beautifully decorated and include a satellite TV, free internet and luxury toiletries. You’ll also have access to the hotel’s leisure facilities, which includes a swimming pool. Book in before we beat you to it!

Places to Celebrate

No matter the outcome of your test, when it’s over you can treat yourself to some refreshments. We’ve scoured the local area and come up with these gems:

The Four Horsemen Pub

The name may be a little ominous, but we promise that once you’re inside this modern, funky, pub you’ll be having a great time. It boasts of offering a wide range of craft beers and unusual spirits, so why not sample the goods? Of course, you could also just order a soft drink and enjoy some of the homemade food. If you fancy paying a visit you can find it just a 5-minute walk from the test centre.

Brass Haus

If you enjoy live music or live sports games, then there’s a treat waiting for you just around the corner from the test centre! Brass Haus prides itself on providing both entertainment and refreshments. An homage to Germany’s bierkellers, this place is a cool underground restaurant and bar offering a tasty variety of food and drink. Go for the schnitzel and stick around for the great atmosphere!

The Dancing Moose Bar & Cookhouse

2 minutes down the road from the test centre sits this awesome cocktail bar and restaurant. They promise to make it feel like a weekend, no matter the actual day, so this is the perfect place to either celebrate or commiserate! Pop in for a swift drink or make yourself comfortable while you peruse their impressive menu of food. The choice is yours!

What Happens Next?

You now have the complete lowdown on Bournemouth theory test centre. It’s super easy to reach by public transport, making it a great option for locals and visitors alike. If you are in the latter group, you could even use your theory test appointment as an excuse to enjoy a day at the seaside. Just make sure you prioritise the test over fish and chips on the beach!

Struggling to earn that theory test pass certificate? It’s probably nothing a little more revision can’t fix. Have a read of our guide to reducing test day nerves, book yourself another test and study the areas that you found a bit tricky. The most important thing is that you do not give up!

Once the theory test is out of the way, it’s time to think about the practical test. We recommend booking a test appointment nice and early, to avoid long wait times. If you’re from Bournemouth, your nearest test centre is likely to be Poole.

Want to get on the road as soon as possible? Book yourself a course with PassMeFast! Our intensive approach to driving lessons means you could be passed in weeks, rather than months. Plus, we take care of all the boring admin stuff so that you can focus on the driving. We’ll even fast-track your test so that you can earn that licence as quickly as possible. Have a browse of our courses online or give us a call on 0333 123 4949 to discuss your options.

Of course, if you already know what you want, you can click the button below to get started now!

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