LGV & PCV Theory Test Cost: Full 2026 Fee Guide
The LGV and PCV theory tests cost £60 in total, spread across three separate components. That is nearly three times the car theory test fee. Here is the full breakdown.
Fee Breakdown
Unlike the car theory test (one sitting, one fee), the LGV and PCV theory tests have three separate components. You can book them separately or together.
| Component | Fee |
|---|---|
| Multiple choice | £26 |
| Hazard perception | £11 |
| Case studies | £23 |
| Total | £60 |
Comparison with car theory: The car theory test is a single booking at £23 covering 50 questions and 14 hazard perception clips. The LGV/PCV test has twice as many questions, more hazard perception clips, and an additional case studies section. The higher fee reflects this additional testing.
LGV vs PCV: Which Do You Need?
LGV (Large Goods Vehicle)
For driving lorries and large vans over 3,500kg.
- C1 - Vehicles 3,500kg to 7,500kg
- C - Vehicles over 3,500kg (no upper limit)
- C1+E - C1 vehicle with trailer over 750kg
- C+E - Category C vehicle with trailer (artic)
PCV (Passenger Carrying Vehicle)
For driving buses, coaches and minibuses.
- D1 - Minibuses (9-16 passengers)
- D - Buses (more than 8 passengers)
- D1+E - D1 vehicle with trailer over 750kg
- D+E - Category D vehicle with trailer
The theory test content is the same for all LGV categories and the same for all PCV categories. You take the LGV theory test once and it covers C1, C, C1+E and C+E. Similarly, one PCV theory test covers D1, D, D1+E and D+E.
How the LGV/PCV Test Differs From Car
Questions
Car
50
LGV/PCV
100
Time limit
Car
57 min
LGV/PCV
115 min
Pass mark (MC)
Car
43/50
LGV/PCV
85/100
Hazard clips
Car
14
LGV/PCV
19
Case studies
Car
None
LGV/PCV
Yes (separate test)
Total fee
Car
£23
LGV/PCV
£60
Employer Funding and Career ROI
The UK has an ongoing shortage of HGV and bus drivers. Many haulage companies, logistics firms, and bus operators offer funded training programmes that cover all costs including theory tests, practical tests, and CPC. This can save you thousands of pounds.
Even if you self-fund, the return on investment is strong. HGV drivers typically earn £30,000 to £45,000 per year, with experienced long-distance drivers earning more. Bus and coach drivers earn £25,000 to £35,000. Against total training costs of £2,000 to £4,000, the payback period is short.
Check with the National Careers Service, local job centres, and recruitment agencies like Manpower and Pertemps for funded HGV training schemes.
Driver CPC: The Additional Requirement
To drive professionally (for hire or reward), you also need the Driver Certificate of Professional Competence (CPC). This is separate from the driving licence and involves:
| CPC Theory test (Part 1) | £23 |
| CPC Case studies (Part 2) | £23 |
| CPC Practical demonstration (Part 3) | £55 |
| CPC Practical driving (Part 4) | Combined with driving test |
| Periodic training (35 hours every 5 years) | £150 - £350 per year |
LGV & PCV Theory Test FAQ
How much does the LGV theory test cost?
The LGV theory test costs £60 in total: multiple choice (£26), hazard perception (£11), and case studies (£23). These three components can be booked separately or together at a DVSA test centre.
How much is the C1 theory test?
The C1 theory test costs the same as the full LGV theory test: £60 total. There is no separate, cheaper test for the C1 category. One LGV theory pass covers all LGV categories (C1, C, C1+E, C+E).
Will my employer pay for the LGV theory test?
Many do. The HGV driver shortage means employers are actively investing in training new drivers. Haulage firms, supermarket logistics operations, and bus companies often run funded training schemes. Ask potential employers directly and check with the National Careers Service.
Do I need CPC as well as the theory test?
If you are driving professionally (for hire or reward), yes. The Driver CPC is a separate qualification on top of your LGV or PCV licence. Initial CPC costs around £100 in test fees, plus periodic training (35 hours every 5 years) which costs £150-350 per year. Some employers pay for this.