Cars are only one part of the DVA test system. Compare the main NI test routes for motorcycles, taxis, lorries, buses, trailers and specialist vehicles — with the official rules clearly separated.
Choose the vehicle or entitlement you are working towards.
The standard Northern Ireland car test route combines a Category B theory test with a practical test. New NI learners are also moving into the Graduated Driver Licensing system from 1 October 2026.
Open guide → Automatic / manualThe practical test standard is the same core driving assessment, but the transmission you pass in affects the vehicles your licence allows you to drive.
Open guide → MotorcycleNorthern Ireland motorcycle licensing uses category-specific age and machine rules. Full motorcycle entitlement normally requires theory, manoeuvres and an on-road practical test, with CBT and instructor requirements applying to learners.
Open guide → TaxiAnyone applying to become a taxi driver in Northern Ireland must pass the taxi theory test before they can apply for the taxi practical test.
Open guide → LGV / PCVLorry and bus tests are vocational assessments with category-specific theory, hazard perception and practical requirements. Higher-category entitlements use staging and upgrading rules.
Open guide → Car + trailerThe B+E test is based on the lorry-test format and is only conducted at vocational DVA centres. The test includes reversing, controlled stopping, coupling/uncoupling and on-road driving.
Open guide → Specialist vehiclesDVA handles practical tests for tractors and specialist vehicle categories separately from the standard online car-test route. The exact vehicle, licence and test requirements depend on category.
Open guide →A car theory test is not the same as an LGV/PCV or taxi theory test. The number of questions and pass marks can differ significantly.
DVA specifies different minimum test vehicles for motorcycles, trailers and vocational vehicles.
Not every DVA centre offers every category. Motorcycle manoeuvres and B+E tests, for example, are limited to certain sites.
The test vehicle and transmission can affect the entitlement recorded on your Northern Ireland licence.
PureCar is independent of DVA. Category information is based on current nidirect/DVA guidance and was checked 21 September 2026. Always confirm the exact licence and vehicle requirements on the linked official page before booking.
