Theory Test
1. The Theory Test for Cars Explained
The Theory Test is made up of two parts;
- Multiple choice and
- Hazard Perception
You need to pass both in one sitting in order to be successful on the day. Once you have passed the Theory Test you can then apply to take your practical driving test.
​
2. Taking your Theory Test
The Multiple choice part of the test is carried out using a touch screen computer terminal and the Hazard Perception part records your responses through the use of a computer mouse button.
If you pass one part and fail the other you’ll fail the whole test, and you’ll need to take both parts again. *Note - You have to wait at least 3 clear working days before taking your test again if you don’t pass.
The questions in each multiple choice test vary according to the category of vehicle you’re hoping to obtain a licence for.
For the Hazard Perception test there are no separate versions for different vehicles, each vehicle category takes the same test, however the pass mark is different for different categories of tests.
​
3. Part one – Multiple Choice
Before the test starts you’ll be given instructions on how the test works.
You can also choose to go through a practice session of the multiple choice questions to get used to the layout of the test. At the end of the practice session the real test will begin.
A question and several answer options will appear onscreen and you have to select the correct answer to the question by touching the screen. Some questions may require more than one answer
For cars and motorcycles you’ll be asked 50 questions in 57 minutes.
The pass mark is 43 out of 50
You can navigate between questions and ‘flag’ questions that you want to come back to later in the test. After the multiple choice part you can choose to have a break of up to three minutes before the Hazard Perception part of the test starts.
4. Part two – Hazard Perception - watch this video
After the break you’ll then be shown a short tutorial video clip about how the Hazard Perception part works.
The Hazard Perception is delivered on the same computer terminal, but you respond by clicking a button on the mouse. You’ll be presented with a series of 14 video clips which feature every day road scenes. In each clip there will be at least one developing hazard, but one of the clips will feature two developing hazards
To achieve a high score you’ll need to respond to the developing hazard during the early part of its development. The maximum you can score on each hazard is five
You won’t be able to review your answers to the Hazard Perception test; as on the road, you’ll only have one chance to respond to the developing hazard.
The pass mark for the Hazard Perception car test is 44 out of 75
​
​5. At the end of the test
At the end of the Hazard Perception test you’ll be invited to answer a number of customer survey questions.
You don’t have to answer the questions if you don’t want to, and any information given is anonymous and confidential. The survey questions do not affect the result of the test
When you have finished the test you may leave the examination room. Once you have left the room, you’ll not be allowed to enter it again. You will then be given your result by the test centre staff. The pass certificate is valid for two years, after which the theory test must be taken and passed again before taking a practical test.
​
You must be prepared when taking both these tests. There are books, online Q and A sites and DVD’s that can be purchased. Please ask you instructor for advice.
Additional Information
Here are some online sites which provide essential learning tools/material:
http://www.tsoshop.co.uk/bookstore.asp?FO=1162833
​
http://www.drivingtheory4all.co.uk/Public/driving-theory-test-home.htm
To book your Theory Test click on the link provided below
http://www.gov.uk/book-a-driving-theory-test
or alternatively
contact the DVSA booking support line on telephone number 0300 200 1122
Monday to Friday 8am to 4pm.
Driving test prices can be found on the following link
https://www.gov.uk/driving-test-cost
GOOD LUCK from LINKS Driving School
The hazard perception part of the driving theory test consist of computer generated imagery (CGI) and covers all types of weather conditions including heavy rain and snow. The imagery is clear on the screen and can include updated vehicles, roads and surroundings to reflect modern day driving.
The fee for car and motorcycle theory tests is currently £23.00