All you need to know on the theory test

Lesson Type
Manual
Auto
Last updated: 27 Sep 2019

Before you can take or even book your practical driving test, you must first pass the UK driving theory test. It can be challenging if you’re not prepared, if you know what to except and revise thoroughly beforehand, it’s a breeze.

What is the UK driving theory test?

The UK driving theory test is a two-part exam with a multiple choice section and a video-based hazard perception section. You need to pass both parts together in order to be able to sit the practical test.

The multiple choice part of the test begins with instructions on how it works, after which you can choose to do a practice session or proceed directly to the real test. The test itself features 50 multiple choice questions which must be answered within 57 minutes. The pass mark for cars and motorcycles is 43 out of 50.

After you’ve completed the multiple choice part, you’ll move onto the hazard perception test. This shows a series of clips of everyday road scenes, some with one developing hazard in them and some with two. Learner drivers must click a mouse when they spot a developing hazard. They are then graded on the speed of their response.

The hazard perception part of the test contains 14 clips with a total of 15 hazards for cars and motorcycles. Learners must score 44 out of 75 to pass.

If a learner achieves a pass in both sections, they are awarded their pass certificate. This enables them to book the practical test at any time during the next two years, after which it expires.

How to book the UK driving theory test

The cheapest and easiest way to book your theory test is directly through the DVSA’s website. There are other sites which allow you to book the test, many of which look suspiciously like the DVSA’s. However, they’ll charge you extra and offer services like pass protection, which the DVSA would never offer.

If the web address of the site you’re on doesn’t have .gov.uk in it, then you’re in the wrong place.

How to pass the UK driving theory test first time

Don’t book it too early

Wait until you are 100% confident before you take the UK driving theory test. You’ve waited over 17 years to learn to drive, what’s another week or two? Practical practice behind the wheel during your driving lessons can also feed into your theory knowledge.

Don’t forget your paperwork

If you show up to your theory test without your signed photo-card licence and the paper counterpart, your test will be cancelled.

Give yourself checking time

Try and leave yourself a few minutes at the end of your theory test to double check your answers.

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