Prices will rise on April 1

A theory test will increase in price by �1.50 to �30, while practical tests for car drivers will go up by �8 to �56.50.

The biggest increase will be for motorcycle riders, who will see the more wide-ranging practical test rise on 29 September from �60 to �80.

The price rises were first proposed last summer, but have now been rubber-stamped by the DSA.

Rosemary Thew, DSA chief executive, said: "The Driving Standards Agency has to cover its costs in providing driving and riding tests to learners throughout the country.

"We are already planning to make efficiency savings of �4.8m this year and a further �6m in 2008-9, but to make sure we continue to offer an excellent service, the fees we charge must match our costs."

A new off-road element to the motorcycle test is being introduced in September before riders will be allowed to progress to the on-road exam.

This means a new network of test centres is being built.