Please be aware that Harlow Test Centre has now closed. Please click here to see other test centres around Essex.

Driving Theory Test Centres in Harlow

Harlow theory test centre is a great option for anyone living in the western part of the county of Essex, and even those across the border in Hertfordshire. As test sites go, it doesn’t get much better for commuters than this one—you can practically see into the theory centre from the train station!

This guide will provide all of the information you need to know before sitting your test here, including waiting times, local amenities, pass rates and more.


Address

1st Floor, Cambridge House Cambridge Road Harlow Essex CM20 2EQ

Phone Number

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

Waiting Times

3-4 weeks Waiting times as recorded at the time of writing. Exact waiting times may vary.

Map

Street View


Arriving at Harlow Theory Test Centre

By public transport

As we’ve mentioned, Harlow theory test centre is in a very convenient location if you’re arriving by rail. Harlow Mill train station is right next door! We’re talking less than 500ft, so it should take you no more than 2 minutes to reach the test centre.

Taking the bus instead? Suit yourself. You’ll only be getting off at the Harlow Mill Railway Station bus stop anyway! That’s right—it’s also just a 2-minute walk to the theory test centre.

If you need any more information on transport links in Harlow, head to the travel section of the Harlow Council website.

By car

If public transport’s not for you and you’ve managed to bag a lift, tap CM20 2EQ into the sat nav and hit the road! The test centre is right by the A1184/Cambridge Road. Turn off at Hart Road and follow signs to Cambridge House.

Traffic on the larger roads in this area can get quite built-up, so be sure to leave yourself plenty of time to make your test appointment even if you’re not driving from out of town.

Parking

If whoever is chauffeuring you needs to park up for a couple of hours, you should warn them that there’s no available parking at the actual test centre. They do, however, have a few options nearby.

The closest option is Harlow Mill Station car park (CM20 2EL). It’s your best option in terms of location, but does charge a rather pricey £4 for 2 hours of parking. Plus, there are only 30 available spaces, so finding an empty one during busy daytime hours may be a challenge.

Failing that, the next closest option is Garden Terrace Road car park (CM17 0DT). Here you’ll find super cheap parking—85p for 2 hours! On the downside, it is 20 minutes away from the test centre, so you’ll need to either get dropped off or add on extra time for the walk.

Pass Rates by Year

The Harlow theory test centre is one of quite a few locations that has seen their pass rate go a little up and down in recent years. Although we always include them in our guides, pass rates don’t really have an impact on individual learners. Of course, it’s always reassuring to see high pass rates (although the most recent stat is just below the national average), but they don’t really reflect how well you personally are likely to perform on the day. The best approach is to focus on studying rather than statistics!

2015-16 2016-17 2017-18 2018-19 2019-20
48.5% 48.8% 47.9% 48.3% 46.9%

Guides and Tips

Determined to pass your theory test first time? That’s the spirit! Carve out some serious revision time and hit the books. Practice tests are also a great way to prepare yourself for exactly what’s to come. Check out some of these super handy theory test guides:

Ready to Go?

Nearby Theory Test Centres

Southgate
Cropped Google Map with pin over Southgate theory test centre

2nd Floor, Crown House
47 Chase Side
Southgate
Enfield
N14 5BP

15.6 miles away

By rail: Southgate tube station

2017/18 pass rate: 46.2%

View on Google Maps

Ilford
Cropped Google Map with pin over Ilford theory test centre

253 High Street
Ilford
Essex
IG1 1NE

16.1 miles away

By rail: Ilford

2017/18 pass rate: 43.5%

View on Google Maps

Hotels

If you don’t live in Harlow but still plan on travelling here for your test, you might be thinking about staying in a local hotel. This is a wise decision, as a good night’s sleep is imperative for a strong performance on test day. Have a gander at some of our top picks:

Premier Inn Harlow ★★★☆☆

This easy breezy hotel is situated in prime position, just down the road from Harlow theory test centre. Rooms are fairly priced to suit even the tightest budget and still provide plenty of convenience and comfort. Ideal for a short stay!

Manor of Groves ★★★☆☆

If you’re a bit of a golf fanatic (or even a casual player) you could combine your theory test expedition with the chance to have a few rounds on the green. Manor of Groves is a hotel and golf club, set in the picturesque surroundings of the Hertfordshire countryside. It may be across the county border, but it’s still only an 8-minute drive from the Harlow theory test centre. Winner!

Holiday Inn Express Harlow ★★★★☆

This stylish chain hotel is a step up from the rest and an excellent choice for any weary traveller looking for a clean and cost room to lay their head for the night. There’s even a free breakfast in the morning, so you can fuel up and conserve some energy for your theory test. Be warned—it’s a 12-15 minute drive from the theory test centre, so if you’re on foot it might be worth getting a taxi or bus to the test centre.

Places to Celebrate

When the theory test is over you should give yourself a pat on the back, or even a nice stiff drink! If you go for the latter, it’s well worth popping into one of Harlow’s fine local establishments. We’ve rounded up a few good ‘uns below.

Coho Brasserie

This family run restaurant sits right on the riverbank and also houses a fancy lounge bar for those who don’t require a full meal. If you do go for some grub, though, you won’t be disappointed. The food is locally sourced and the modern European menu is sure to get your tastebuds excited. As an added bonus, it’s only a few yards down the road from the test centre!

The Dusty Miller

This is a classic country pub offering a selection of top notch beers and wines. If you pop by at the right time you might even get to enjoy some quality live music. The Dusty Miller provides elegant surroundings, friendly staff and great food—what more could you want?! A beer garden? Yep, there’s one of them too.

The Rising Sun

Traditional pub downstairs, top quality restaurant upstairs, all set in the delightful Sawbridgeworth countryside. It’s a bit of a trek at a 40-minute walk from the theory test centre, but well worth it if you want to relax in a proper country pub.

What Happens Next?

If you’re from western Essex or across the border in Hertfordshire, the Harlow theory test centre could be the perfect choice for you. It sits right next to the local train station, making it a very convenient choice for anyone heading to Harlow by rail!

Once you’re done with the theory side of things, it’s time to get practical. Yes, it’s all well and good knowing your stuff, but can you actually drive? Get plenty of lessons with a qualified instructor and book yourself a practical test. If you’re from Harlow, the nearest test centre to you is likely to be in Loughton.

If the theory test is still blocking your way to achieving your driving dreams, it’s time to get serious about the studying. Book yourself another test so you have a clear date to aim for and revise, revise, revise!

PassMeFast believes that intensive and semi-intensive driving courses give you the best chance to learn the necessary skills and earn your licence as quickly as possible. Have a look at the different driving courses we offer online, or give us a bell on 0333 123 4949 to discuss your options. You might even find it useful to give our nifty little course recommender a go!

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