VeiMester
Log in
NO EN

Questions and answers

How long is the theory test valid?

3 years

A passed theory test is valid for three years. If you have not passed the practical driving test within three years of the theory test, you must take the theory test again.

The clock starts on the day you passed the theory test. What has to happen in time is passing the practical test – having booked it is not enough.

Take a free theory test

Seen from the back seat: a driver's hands on the wheel, eyes on a wet road at dusk.
Valid for
3 yearsfrom the day you passed the theory test
Must be passed in time
The practical testthe driving test with Statens vegvesen
Earliest theory test
17 ½ yearssix months before the class B minimum age
If you fail
2 weekswait before a new attempt, NOK 480 each time

How the deadline runs

  1. Day 0
    You pass the theory testThe three-year deadline starts. You can now book the practical test.
  2. Meanwhile
    Practice and the last coursesYour training carries on as normal. The deadline only applies to the practical test.
  3. Within 3 years
    You pass the practical testThe theory test has done its job. Fail the practical test and you can try again while the deadline runs.
  4. After 3 years
    The deadline has passedYou must take the theory test again before you can book the practical test – and pay NOK 480 again.

What the rule says

The rule is in the driver training regulations (trafikkopplæringsforskriften) § 29-1: if the practical test is not passed within three years of passing the theory test, the candidate must take a new theory test. The same section says the theory test must be passed before you can book and take the practical test.

So three years is a deadline for passing the practical test, not an expiry date for what you know. Fail the practical test and your theory pass still stands until the deadline, so you can simply book a new slot.

When three years is too short

For most learners the deadline is never a problem: the theory test usually comes at around 17 ½–18 and the practical test soon after. It bites when life gets in the way – moving, studies, military service or a long break from practice driving.

If you passed the theory more than two years ago, book the practical test early. Waiting times differ between traffic stations, and a free slot after the deadline does not help.

Taking the theory test again

It is the same test as the first time, and passing it starts a new three-year deadline.

  • You pay the fee again: NOK 480 (prices from 1 February 2026).
  • The test is 45 questions in 90 minutes, and you need at least 38 right.
  • A lot may have slipped since last time. Take a free theory test and see what you still know.

Sources

Checked against the sources 4 October 2026.

More questions and answers

Ready to pass the theory test?

A free account gives you a taste of every theme. Full access opens everything – 299 kr for a month, no auto-renewal.

Get started free Full access – 299 kr

Frequently asked questions

Does a booked practical test extend the theory test?

No. The practical test must be passed within three years of the theory test. A booking does not count.

What happens to my theory test if I fail the practical test?

Nothing. It stays valid until the three-year deadline, and you can book a new practical test.

Is the deadline the same for a motorcycle licence?

Yes. Section 29-1 of the driver training regulations covers the driving test in general, including classes A1, A2 and A.

All questions and answers