Before you can book your practical driving test, you will need to pass the theory test. For many drivers, this is the first step on their journey to getting a full UK driving licence.
However, before you book your theory test, it is best to be fully prepared.
What is the driving theory test?
A driving theory test is an exam that assesses your knowledge and understanding of driving laws, rules of the road, and safe driving practices – along with your ability to assess danger while behind the wheel of a car.
The test consists of multiple-choice questions and will also include hazard perception videos with a separate test. This is where you need to identify potential hazards on the road as if you are driving along a road in the UK.
The purpose of the driving theory test is to ensure that drivers have a basic understanding of what to do when driving and that they can demonstrate safe and legal driving behaviours.
In the UK, passing the driving theory test is a requirement before you can take the practical driving test to obtain a full driver's license.
If you are learning to drive, it is important to study and prepare for the test to increase your chances of passing and becoming a safe and responsible driver.
How much does the driving theory test cost?
For those who are currently taking driving lessons, you have probably started looking at booking your theory test.
If you are looking to get a licence for driving a car, it will cost you £23.
You will then need to pay a further fee for the practical test. It will be £62 for a weekday, or £75 for evening, weekend, or bank holiday.
How long does the driving theory test last?
The length of a driving theory test can vary very slightly depending on the speed at which you answer. In general, the theory test usually takes around 60 minutes to complete (including the hazard perception test).
The test itself will consist of two parts for everyone taking it. First, you will need to complete the multiple-choice questions and then the hazard perception test.
The multiple-choice questions typically take around 45 minutes to complete, and the hazard perception test takes around 15 minutes.
During the multiple-choice section, you will be presented with a series of questions on a computer screen, and you'll need to select the correct answer from a list of options.
In the hazard perception test, you will watch a series of video clips that show different driving situations, and you'll need to identify potential hazards on the road.
You'll be scored based on how quickly you identify the hazards.
It's important to check with your driving instructor about what to expect and what to prepare for. This will increase your chances of passing.
How many driving theory test questions are there in total?
In the UK, the driving theory test consists of two parts: the multiple-choice section and the hazard perception section.
The multiple-choice section consists of 50 questions, and you'll have 57 minutes to complete it. The questions cover a range of topics related to driving and will include questions on traffic signs, signals, rules, and safe driving practices.
However, you will need to answer at least 43 questions correctly to pass this section.
The hazard perception section consists of 14 video clips, each about one minute long, showing different driving situations.
You will need to identify potential hazards as they appear in each clip by clicking a mouse button.
For those taking the hazard perception test, you can score up to five points for each hazard, depending on how quickly you identify it. The pass mark for this section is 44 out of 75.
It's important to prepare adequately for the driving theory test by studying the relevant materials, such as the official Highway Code, and practicing using mock tests and hazard perception videos.
Passing the driving theory test is a requirement before you can take the practical driving test to obtain a full driver's license in the UK.
There is no grading system for the driving theory test – it is either a pass or a failure.
Should you fail, you can retake – but you will need to book this in with your local centre.
What is the hazard perception driving test?
A hazard perception test is a section of the driving theory test that assesses your ability to identify potential hazards on the road while driving.
The test involved watching of a series of video clips that show different driving situations, such as driving through a busy street, approaching a junction, or driving in bad weather conditions.
As you watch each video clip, you'll need to identify any hazards that may occur on the road, such as pedestrians crossing, vehicles suddenly braking or turning, or road obstructions.
You can do this by clicking a mouse button as soon as you spot a hazard. The sooner you identify the hazard, the more points you'll score.
The purpose of the hazard perception test is to evaluate your ability to anticipate potential dangers on the road and react to them in a timely and appropriate manner.
It's an important skill to have as a driver, as it can help you avoid accidents and keep yourself and others safe on the road.
Those taking the test will watch 14 video clips in 15 minutes. You can score up to five points for each hazard, depending on how quickly you identify it by clicking the mouse.
The pass mark for the hazard perception test is 44 out of 75.
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What age can I take my driving theory test?
In order to take your driving theory test, you must be at least 17 years of age. You will need to prove this when booking your test and when you arrive at the test facility.
Before you do this, you will need to have your provisional driving licence.
How to I book the driving theory test?
In order to book your driving theory test, you will need to visit the Government’s official website - www.gov.uk/book-theory-test
You can contact the Driver and Vehicle Standards Agency (DVSA) to get help booking your theory test.
Alternatively, you can email theorycustomerservices@dvsa.gov.uk or call 0300 200 1122 from Monday to Friday, 8am to 4pm. You’ll need a debit or credit card to book the test.
What do I need to bring to the driving theory test?
After booking your driving theory test, you will need to make sure you have the correct paperwork with you.
You’ll need to bring your photocard provisional licence and a copy of your booking.
Driving theory test question examples
Below are some examples from the Official Safe Driving for Life (DVSA) practice theory test examples..
To prepare for the theory test, an app like Driving Theory Test UK is a great place to start, with all necessary learning materials, hazard perception clips and Highway Code info included. You can download it here:
Where do I find the results of my driving theory test?
If you are fortunate to pass your driving theory test, you will get a letter in the post with your pass certificate number on it.
You can also find your pass certificate number at www.gov.uk/find-theory-test-pass-number.
However, if you fail the test, you will need to wait three working days before you can retake the test.
If I have passed my driving theory test, how long does it last?
A successful theory test pass certificate will last for two years from the day you receive a notice that you have passed.
You will not get a reminder when the driving theory test certificate is due to expire, so ensure you make a note of the date you passed.
If you do not pass your practical test within two years or fail to send it to the DVLA to obtain your full licence may result in the pass certificate expiring. If this happens, you will need to retake your driving theory test.
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