DVSA driving test centre

Birmingham (Sutton Coldfield)

Updated with DVSA figures to May 2023

Find driving instructors near the Birmingham (Sutton Coldfield) test centre in Sutton Coldfield. Browse local instructors, view test centre statistics, and prepare for your driving test with local instructors who know the area.

The Birmingham (Sutton Coldfield) driving test centre has a 44.06% pass rate across 2,712 tests (DVSA figures, 2023-24). The median wait between booking and taking a test here is 15.1 weeks as of May 2023.

Got a test booked at Birmingham (Sutton Coldfield)?

Local instructors know the test routes here better than anyone. Get a few lessons on them before your date.

See local instructors

Official DVSA figures

44.06%

Pass rate

DVSA figures, 2023-24

15.1 weeks

Average wait

DVSA figures for May 2023

2,712

Tests

Conducted over the period reported

1,195

Passes

Candidates who passed here

Local instructors

Birmingham (Sutton Coldfield) Driving Instructors

Find driving instructors within 10 miles of the Birmingham (Sutton Coldfield) test centre. Working with a local instructor who knows the test routes and area can significantly improve your preparation and confidence.

Rajeev Chadha

Male

Birminghamunder 1 mile

RC
£40per lesson
Email
Experience
15+ years
Avg. to pass
25-85 lessons
Gearbox
Automatic
Block bookingsMock tests
Vehicle
Unknown
Dual controlsSensorsCameraHill assist
SpeaksEnglish

Lesson availability

MoTuWeThFrSaSuMorningAfternoonEvening

Sukhi

Male

Birmingham1 mile

S
£34-£38per lesson
Email
Experience
4+ years
Avg. to pass
20-60 lessons
Gearbox
Manual
Block bookingsMock tests
Vehicle
Unknown
Dual controlsSensorsCameraHill assist
SpeaksEnglishHindiPunjabi

Lesson availability

MoTuWeThFrSaSuMorningAfternoonEvening

Pass With Dave -Driver Training--Driving Coach & Instructor

Male

Birmingham1 mile

PW
£34-£36per hour
Email
Experience
23+ years
Avg. to pass
25-45 lessons
Gearbox
Manual
Block bookingsMock tests
Vehicle
2026 Hyundai i20Manual · Petrol
Dual controlsSensorsCameraHill assist
SpeaksEnglish

Lesson availability

MoTuWeThFrSaSuMorningAfternoonEvening

Dildhar Khan

Male

Birmingham2 miles

DK
£40-£45per lesson
Email
Experience
17+ years
Avg. to pass
25-45 lessons
Gearbox
Manual
Block bookingsMock tests
Vehicle
Unknown
Dual controlsSensorsCameraHill assist
SpeaksEnglishBengali

Lesson availability

MoTuWeThFrSaSuMorningAfternoonEvening

Ahmed Sher

Male

Birmingham2 miles

AS
£36-£38per lesson
Email
Experience
8+ years
Avg. to pass
40-45 lessons
Gearbox
Manual
Block bookingsMock tests
Vehicle
Unknown
Dual controlsSensorsCameraHill assist
SpeaksEnglishUrduHindiPunjabi

Lesson availability

MoTuWeThFrSaSuMorningAfternoonEvening

Jody Finney

Female

Birmingham2 miles

JF
£42-£100per lesson
Email
Experience
8+ years
Avg. to pass
20-40 lessons
Gearbox
BothManual & auto
Block bookingsMock tests
Vehicle
Unknown
Dual controlsSensorsCameraHill assist
SpeaksEnglish

Lesson availability

MoTuWeThFrSaSuMorningAfternoonEvening
Test centre review

Birmingham (Sutton Coldfield) test centre review: what the DVSA figures say

We don't publish learner reviews of test centres, and we won't make any up. Instead, this is what the official DVSA figures say about Birmingham (Sutton Coldfield).

Our verdict

What the figures say

The latest DVSA pass rate for Birmingham (Sutton Coldfield) is 44.06% in 2023-24. That is older than the figures for most centres, so we don't compare it with the rest of Britain.

The pass rate is up 1.3 percentage points on 2022-23.

The latest DVSA figure for the wait here is 15.1 weeks, for May 2023.

Scorecard

Pass rate (2023-24)
44.06%
Change on 2022-23
Up 1.3 percentage points
First-time pass rate (2023-24)
41.56%
Automatic pass rate (2023-24)
39.23%
Male / female pass rate (2023-24)
47.59% / 40.23%
Average wait (May 2023)
15.1 weeks
Tests DVSA cancelled (2023-24)
64

A pass rate reflects who tests here as well as the centre itself: how old candidates are, how many are on a first attempt and how ready they are. A lower rate does not mean the examiners are stricter.

Nearby centres

How Birmingham (Sutton Coldfield) compares with nearby test centres

Open test centres within 20 miles of Birmingham (Sutton Coldfield), with their latest DVSA pass rate and average wait. If you can travel a little further, a nearby centre may have a shorter wait.

Pass rate and average wait at Birmingham (Sutton Coldfield) and nearby test centres
Test centrePass rateWait
Birmingham (Sutton Coldfield)This centre44.06%2023-2415.1 weeksMay 2023
Birmingham (Kingstanding)2.1 miles away48.53%16.1 weeks
Birmingham (Garretts Green)6 miles away44.40%11.4 weeks
Birmingham (South Yardley)6.6 miles away42.84%11.9 weeks
Wednesbury7.2 miles away34.98%13.1 weeks
Birmingham (Cocks Moors Woods Leisure Centre)9.2 miles away53.50%4.7 weeks
Lichfield9.3 miles away53.05%17 weeks

Pass rates are for 2025-26 and waits are the median for September 2026, unless another period is shown. Distances are in a straight line from Birmingham (Sutton Coldfield).

About Birmingham (Sutton Coldfield)

The Birmingham (Sutton Coldfield) test centre serves the Sutton Coldfield area as a key location for practical driving tests. With a pass rate of 44.06% based on 2,712 tests conducted, this test centre provides valuable insights for learner drivers preparing for their practical examination. Understanding the local area and practicing with an instructor familiar with the test centre can make a significant difference in your preparation and confidence on test day.

Success at any test centre comes down to thorough preparation. Working with a local driving instructor who knows the Sutton Coldfield area means you'll practice on roads similar to those used during your test, become familiar with local traffic patterns, and build the skills and confidence needed to pass. We've listed instructors near this test centre to help you prepare effectively.

Location & Directions

Address

110 - 116 Boldmere Road
Sutton Coldfield
B73 5UB

View on Google Maps

Book Your Test

Visit gov.uk/book-driving-test to book your driving test.

Waiting times

How long is the wait at Birmingham (Sutton Coldfield)?

Official DVSA figures for May 2023

Average wait for a test

15.1 weeks

The median time between booking a test here and taking it.

Until appointments free up

12.6 weeks

How far ahead you have to look before this centre has a reasonable choice of slots.

Tests DVSA cancelled here

64

Over 2023-24, mostly examiner medical absence. These are cancellations by DVSA - examiner absence, weather, industrial action - not by candidates. A cancelled test is rebooked at no charge.

See how Birmingham (Sutton Coldfield) compares: waiting times at every UK test centre

The numbers

Test Centre Statistics

Official DVSA figures for 2023-24

Overall Pass Rate

44.06%

Based on 2,712 tests

Tests Conducted

2,712

In the year reported

Total Passes

1,195

Successful candidates in the year reported

Trends

Pass Rate in Context

DVSA publish a year total for Birmingham (Sutton Coldfield) but no month-by-month breakdown, so there is no monthly trend to show. Your result depends far more on your preparation than on when you book - an instructor who knows the local roads is one of the most effective ways to improve your chances.

Overall Pass Rate

2023-24

1,195 passes from 2,712 tests
Source: DVSA, 2023-24 release
The breakdown

Who passes at Birmingham (Sutton Coldfield)

The headline rate mixes first tests with retakes. DVSA break it down further (2023-24).

First-time candidates

41.56%

Across 1,066 first attempts, of which 14 passed with no faults at all. If this is your first test, this is the closer comparison.

Automatic car tests

39.23%

Across 729 automatic tests. An automatic licence only lets you drive automatics.

Pass rate by age

Younger candidates tend to pass more often - worth knowing before comparing yourself to the headline number. The number on the right is how many tests that age group took.

Age 17
48.57%105
Age 18
54.67%225
Age 19
42.13%235
Age 20
47.09%223
Age 21
45.51%178
Age 22
42.41%158
Age 23
36.59%123
Age 24
46.39%97
Age 25
41.51%106
Since 2007

Pass rate year by year

Every year DVSA have published for Birmingham (Sutton Coldfield), from 2007-08 to 2023-24

2007-082008-092009-102010-112011-122012-132013-142014-152015-162016-172017-182018-192019-202020-212021-222022-232023-24

Financial years 2007-08 to 2023-24, ranging between 35.11% and 47.63%

Pass rate at Birmingham (Sutton Coldfield) by financial year
Financial yearPass rateTests conducted
2007-0847.63%6,693
2008-0944.42%6,961
2009-1045.33%6,578
2010-1143.14%6,998
2011-1242.95%6,075
2012-1341.62%5,944
2013-1442.71%6,587
2014-1540.61%6,326
2015-1641.69%5,944
2016-1737.88%6,748
2017-1840.28%9,841
2018-1937.56%6,481
2019-2035.26%7,184
2020-2136.26%2,201
2021-2235.11%7,709
2022-2342.81%11,783
2023-2444.06%2,712
Becoming an instructor

ADI qualifying tests at Birmingham (Sutton Coldfield)

Trainee driving instructors sit their qualifying tests at ordinary test centres - these are the figures for this one.

ADI Part 3 pass rate (2023-24)

12.5%

The instructional-ability test - nationally the hardest step. Every centre's Part 3 rate

From the archive

Birmingham (Sutton Coldfield) driving test routes (2008–2010)

These are the official DSA route documents, last reviewed 2008–2010. DVSA stopped publishing test routes in October 2010 when independent driving was introduced; today's routes are different and unpublished, and the test centre itself may have moved site since these were written. Use these to get familiar with the general area - not to memorise a route.

Source: Driving Standards Agency, via The National Archives (OGL v3.0).

On the day

Test Centre Facilities & Services

Important information about the Birmingham (Sutton Coldfield) test centre

Available Test Types

This test centre provides these types of tests: car.

Accessibility Information

DVSA will make arrangements for you at this test centre if you have a disability.

What to Expect on Test Day

Your driving test at Birmingham (Sutton Coldfield) will follow the standard DVSA practical test format. Plan to arrive at least 10-15 minutes before your scheduled time to allow for check-in procedures.

  • Bring your provisional driving licence and theory test pass certificate
  • Your test will begin with an eyesight check (reading a number plate)
  • You'll be asked two vehicle safety questions ('show me, tell me')
  • The driving portion lasts approximately 40 minutes
  • You'll be asked to perform one manoeuvre and may be required to follow sat-nav directions
Preparation

Preparing for Your Driving Test at Birmingham (Sutton Coldfield)

Expert advice to help you succeed on test day

Preparing for your driving test requires more than just learning to drive - it's about building confidence, understanding the local area, and practicing under test-like conditions. At the Birmingham (Sutton Coldfield) test centre, success starts with thorough preparation and the right support.

Work With a Local Instructor

One of the most valuable investments you can make is working with a driving instructor who knows the Sutton Coldfield area well. Local instructors understand the roads commonly used for tests from Birmingham (Sutton Coldfield), know the local traffic patterns, and can provide targeted practice on manoeuvres and situations you're likely to encounter. They can also offer mock tests that simulate the real experience, helping you build confidence and identify areas that need more work.

Practice in the Local Area

Familiarity with the roads around Birmingham (Sutton Coldfield) can make a significant difference on test day. Spend time practicing in the area with your instructor, paying attention to speed limits, road layouts, and common hazards. This local knowledge helps reduce anxiety and allows you to focus on demonstrating your driving skills rather than trying to navigate unfamiliar roads.

Understand the Statistics

The 44.06% pass rate at Birmingham (Sutton Coldfield) provides context but shouldn't define your expectations. Every candidate's journey is different, and with proper preparation, you can exceed these statistics. Focus on mastering the skills, building your confidence, and taking your test only when you and your instructor agree you're ready.

FAQ

Common Questions About Birmingham (Sutton Coldfield)

Find answers to frequently asked questions about this test centre, pass rates, and preparing for your driving test.

We don't publish learner reviews of test centres, so there are no star ratings for Birmingham (Sutton Coldfield) here. What we can tell you is what the official DVSA figures say. The latest DVSA pass rate for Birmingham (Sutton Coldfield) is 44.06% in 2023-24. That is older than the figures for most centres, so we don't compare it with the rest of Britain. The pass rate is up 1.3 percentage points on 2022-23. The latest DVSA figure for the wait here is 15.1 weeks, for May 2023.

41.56% of candidates taking their first driving test at Birmingham (Sutton Coldfield) passed it, across 1,066 first attempts in 2023-24. 14 of those passed with no driving faults at all. The centre's overall pass rate of 44.06% includes retakes, so first-time candidates should compare against this figure instead.

39.23% of automatic car tests taken at Birmingham (Sutton Coldfield) were passed, across 729 tests in 2023-24. Passing in an automatic gives you an automatic-only licence.

According to DVSA figures for May 2023, the average (median) wait between booking a test at Birmingham (Sutton Coldfield) and taking it is 15.1 weeks. Appointments generally start to free up around 12.6 weeks ahead. Waiting times change every month, and this page updates when DVSA publish new figures.

Based on recent data, the Birmingham (Sutton Coldfield) test centre has a pass rate of 44.06%. Out of 2,712 tests conducted, 1,195 candidates passed their driving test.

This test centre provides these types of tests: car.

DVSA will make arrangements for you at this test centre if you have a disability.

To prepare for your driving test at the Birmingham (Sutton Coldfield) test centre, we recommend: practicing in the local area with a local instructor (see our instructors below), getting additional practice with family members between lessons (ensuring they're over 21 and have held a full UK licence for at least 3 years), watching instructional YouTube videos for tips and techniques, and completing mock tests. Consider the centre's 44.06% pass rate when planning your preparation timeline.

The Birmingham (Sutton Coldfield) test centre is located at 110 - 116 Boldmere Road, Sutton Coldfield, B73 5UB. You can find detailed directions using the Google Maps link on this page.

On your test day at the Birmingham (Sutton Coldfield) test centre, arrive at least 10-15 minutes early with your provisional licence and theory test certificate. Your examiner will ask you to read a number plate, perform 'show me, tell me' questions, and then conduct a driving test lasting approximately 40 minutes. Based on recent data, 44.06% of candidates pass at this test centre. Remember to stay calm and drive as you've been taught.

Officially no - DVSA stopped publishing test routes in October 2010 when independent driving was introduced, and today's routes are unpublished. However, the official DSA route documents used at Birmingham (Sutton Coldfield) until then are preserved by The National Archives, and you can view them on this page. Use them to get familiar with the roads around the test centre rather than to memorise a route.

We've listed driving instructors within 10 miles of the Birmingham (Sutton Coldfield) test centre at the top of this page. Working with a local instructor who knows the area and test routes can significantly improve your chances of passing. You can also search by your own postcode to see instructors who cover exactly where you live.

Cite these figures

Writing about this test centre? You're welcome to quote these figures. Please credit The Driving Instructor Directory and link to this page.

Source: The Driving Instructor Directory, using DVSA data (DRT122A, DRT122F) for 2023-24 pass rates and May 2023 waiting times. https://www.thedrivinginstructordirectory.co.uk/driving-test-centres/birmingham-sutton-coldfield

The figures are DVSA's. Contains public sector information licensed under the Open Government Licence v3.0.