Driving Theory Test Centres in Oxford

The city of Oxford is home to the oldest university in the English-speaking world and the only theory test centre in the county of Oxfordshire. For the duration of this guide, we’re going to be focusing on the latter. So, if you’re a learner from the area looking to earn your driving licence, we’re about to help you navigate the first step—the theory test!

In this guide you’ll find everything you need to know for a successful test day. We’re talking pass rates, wait times, directions and much, much more!


Address

58 St Aldates Oxford Oxfordshire OX1 1ST

Phone Number

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

Map


Arriving at Oxford Theory Test Centre

By public transport

Once you’ve managed to book a theory test, you need to start planning how you’re going to get to the test centre. For many learners, this means navigating public transport. If you’re heading in from out of town, arriving by rail is a good option. From Oxford train station, it should only take you around 17 minutes to walk to the test centre.

There’s also the option to take the bus. This will particularly suit those who don’t like to spend much time on their feet. The Police Station bus stop is less than 100 yards from the test centre entrance!

To learn more about the transport available in Oxford, make your way over to the Oxford City Council website.

By car

If you’re being driven to your theory test, a sat nav will probably come in handy. Tap in the postcode, OX1 1ST, and hit the road! The theory test centre sits on the left side of Christ Church Meadow, on a road just off the A420. The building itself is on a corner, with the main entrance facing a set of traffic lights.

As you’re heading to a major road in a busy city, we would recommend that you avoid travelling here during rush hour. Arriving late to the theory test may result in your appointment being cancelled!

Parking

Looking to park the car somewhere for the duration of the test? Let the driver know that the test centre does not provide any parking spots. The best option is to head to Westgate car park (OX1 1TR), which is a 14-minute walk away. It has over 1000 spaces and charges £4 for 2 hours of parking. If that sounds a little pricey, you can always try Hinksey Park car park (OX1 4PZ) instead. It’s a slightly longer 19-minute walk away, but only charges £2 for 2 hours of parking.

Pass Rates by Year

Let’s talk stats! If you’re familiar with theory test pass rates, you’ll know that these particular yearly figures are fairly impressive. Despite a slight decline in the last couple of years, the Oxford theory test centre pass rate is still firmly above the national average.

Please keep in mind, though, that this doesn’t necessarily mean that you’re more likely to pass your test here than at a centre with lower pass rates. How you perform on the day really all boils down to how much preparation you’ve done beforehand.

2015-16 2016-17 2017-18 2018-19 2019-20 2020-21 2021-22
52.6% 53.7% 51.8% 51.6% 51.1% 59.6% 58.0%

Guides and Tips

It might seem obvious, but the best way to prepare for the theory test is to study the material! You need to be able to answer questions on the Highway Code and spot developing hazards in a series of video clips. Remember: you need to pass both the multiple choice and hazard perception section of the test in order to achieve an overall pass.

Mock tests are a great way to ensure you’re test-ready. Get access to those and other study aids in the list below...

Ready to Go?

Nearby Theory Test Centres

Hotels

Some learners choose to stay at a hotel near the test centre the night before their test. This is a great way to avoid any last-minute stress the morning of the big day. Here are a few nearby options:

The Old Black Horse ★★★☆☆

This is a lovely little affordable B&B with some great extras thrown in. All rooms are equipped with an ensuite bathroom, television and include free WiFi. The building itself hails back to the 17th century, so it’s a great way to soak in the history of this impressive city. You can find The Old Black Horse just a 20-minute walk from the theory test centre.

Best Western Plus Linton Lodge ★★★☆☆

At just a 9-minute drive from the theory test centre, this Best Western Plus is also a great option for learner drivers heading to the area for a short stay. Linton Lodge sits in a quieter part of the city, so you can expect a more relaxing stay away from the hustle and bustle of the centre. Rooms are clean and comfortable and you have the option of kicking off the day with their on-site buffet breakfast. Free parking and WiFi are also available.

Museum Hotel ★★★★☆

If you’re willing to pay a little extra for an exceptional hotel experience, you simply must head to the Museum Hotel. It’s located in a historic neighbourhood, and is just a 6-minute walk from the test centre. Rooms are exceptionally furnished, with king-sized beds and an adjoining bathroom that boasts marbled walls, a rainfall shower and top of the line complimentary toiletries.

Places to Celebrate

When the theory test is done and dusted, you could always stick around the area for a bit and treat yourself to something nice to eat or drink. Oxford certainly isn’t short of options! Not sure where to start? Check out some of our favourite local spots:

The Alchemist

You may have visited one of these bars in another part of the country. If so, you’ll know that when it comes to cocktails, The Alchemist is head and shoulders above other bars. Their drinks selection is vast, imaginative and absolutely delicious! Plus, they have a full food menu, should you be feeling peckish. The decor is super trendy but the overall vibe remains laidback and welcoming.

The Cape of Good Hope

If you’re more of a pub person, you’ll probably enjoy a trip to The Cape of Good Hope. It’s a contemporary establishment that still retains the old charms of a classic pub. Expect a lively, friendly atmosphere and an intriguing menu to sink your teeth into. Good food, great drinks and lots of fun!

The Bear Inn

For a more traditional style pub, make your way to The Bear Inn. It’s a little place with a lot of character. They offer a great selection of real ales, lagers, stouts and wines from across the globe. There’s also some traditional pub grub on offer that’s sure to satisfy anyone with a grumbling stomach!

What Happens Next?

This complete guide should have given you a very clear idea of whether Oxford theory test centre is the right location for you. With its high pass rates and great transport links, it might even persuade those from outside the county to pay a visit!

The theory test is just one hurdle learners have to jump to earn a driving licence. When you pass this stage, next up on the list is the practical test. This means putting what you’ve learnt into action. In other words, it’s time to get in the driver’s seat!

Find yourself an instructor, organise some lessons, and book a test at your local centre. (Of course, you could also sign up for a course with PassMeFast and we’ll do all of the above for you!) If you’re from Oxford itself there’s a test centre on your doorstep, so it’s highly likely that this will be your most convenient option.

If you still haven’t managed to bag that theory test pass certificate, we urge you to not give up! Book yourself a new test and revise, revise, revise! As long as you put the work in, there’s no reason you can’t pass with flying colours!

To book in with PassMeFast, or sign up for one of our courses, give us a ring on 0333 123 4949. Then again, if you know exactly what you want and you’re eager to get started as soon as possible, click on the green button below. The road to driving doesn’t have to be long!

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