Theory Test


When you have received your provisional driving licence, then next stage is to take the theory test. Many learner drivers struggle to pass the theory test. Listed below are some tips and advice to help you pass. The theory test consists of two sections. Section one is multiple choice questions where the pass mark is 43 out of 50. Section two is the hazard perception part and the pass mark is 44 out of 75. Both the multiple choice and hazard perception sections need to be passed or the the theory test will need to be taken again.

Be aware when booking your theory test online. The current fee for the theory test is £31 and can be booked online by the official Directgov web site. There are however many web sites that offer to book your theory test but in addition to the cost of the test itself, charge you a booking fee. If you wish to cancel your theory test, a minimum of 3 working days notice must be given or else you will lose your fee.

What to expect on the theory test.

The theory test is made up of two parts. The first part taken is the multiple choice part and then the hazard perception part. Both the multiple choice part and the hazard perception part of the theory have to be passed or you will need to retake the test again. Once you have successfully completed the theory test, you can then apply for your practical driving test.

Part one - multiple choice
Before the test starts, you'll be given instructions on the screen or you can choose to go through a practice session of the test.
The actual test contains 50 questions. A question and several answers will appear on screen and you have to choose the right answer by touching the screen. Some questions may require more than one answer.
You can navigate between questions or "flag" questions you want to come back to later.
You'll have 57 minutes to answer all questions and the pass mark is 43 out of 50.
The hazard perception presents 14 video clips which feature every day road scenes.
In each clip there will be at least one developing hazard, but one clip will feature two of them. You respond to the hazards by clicking a mouse's button. To achieve a high score you'll need to respond to the hazard during the early stage of its development.
The maximum score on each hazard is five. You won't be able to review your answers. The pass mark for this part is 44 out of 75.
To achieve a high score you'll need to respond to the hazard during the early stage of its development.
The maximum score on each hazard is five. You won't be able to review your answers. The pass mark for this part is 44 out of 75.
Once the theory test is completed, you will be presented with the results by the test centre staff.



Part two - hazard perception
Before the test you'll be shown a short tutorial video.
At the end of the test
Tips to pass the  theory test?

Theory test - multiple choice part 1

1. Purchase or borrow a theory test and hazard perception DVD and book. You can purchase the official DSA theory test kit from many online stores or good book shops. As well as studying this, take a mock theory test as much as possible. You can take the official practice theory test by going to the www.direct.gov.uk website.

2. When you have studied the theory test kit and have taken several mock tests, make a note of the areas that you find difficult. Spend extra time on these areas until they are stored in your mind.

3. Before you take the theory test, take around 10 or more driving lessons with qualified driving instructors like those at Cambridge Driving School. This will get you familiar with road markings, road signs and will benefit you significantly on the hazard perception part of the test. Your driving instructor will be able to provide you with lots of help and tips for the theory test.

4. Some of the multiple choice answers may seem obvious. Read them very carefully however before making your decision to ensure you have chosen the correct answer.


Theory test - hazard perception part 2

1. Look out for developing hazards for example a car emerging from a junction, a pedestrian about to cross the road etc. As soon as you spot a potential or developing hazard, click the button on the mouse. There may be many developing hazards per clip so it is acceptable to click the mouse on several occasions per clip. Ensure you only click the mouse when you see a developing hazard as constant clicking through out will fail that particular clip section.

2. As above, practice using the official DSA theory test kit and taking driving lessons with a qualified driving instructor will help immensely with this section of the theory test.

3. Types of hazards that you need to keep a look out for are:
·      Pedestrians or cyclists waiting to cross the road
·      Vehicles emerging from side roads or driveways
·      Large vehicles when turning need extra room and may come onto your side of the road
·      If the clip is on a narrow road especially with parked cars be prepared for oncoming vehicles.
REMEMBER DO NOT BOOK YOU TEST UNTIL YOU ARE ABSOLUTELY SURE YOU ARE READY, KEEP PRACTICING AND TAKE MOCK TEST. WE ARE HERE TO SUPPORT YOU 24/7 WITH YOUR TRAINING. GOOD LUCK!!!