Technology & Cars

What Happens During The Theory Test

Your first challenge as a prospective new driver is to pass the theory test. To help you on your way here's a step by step guide of what to expect, making sure you pass the driving theory test first time. Enlarge

What Happens During The Theory Test

Your first challenge as a prospective new driver is to pass the theory test. To help you on your way here's a step by step guide of what to expect, making sure you pass the driving theory test first time.

Step 1: You will need

  • Both the card and counterpart sections of your provisional driving licence.

Step 2: Booking the test

You can apply to take the test online, by posting an application form, or over the phone. If you book online you can take the test the following week, and at a centre of your choosing.

To fill out the application you will need to have you provisional driving license number handy.

Step 3: Arriving

Arrive at the centre at your allotted time and sign in at reception. You will need to show your appointment letter, both parts of your provisional licence and proof of identity if necessary. The receptionist will direct you to lockers where you must put all of your belongings, especially your mobile phone - not that you'd be likely to cheat! Just keep your licence with you.

From here you may have to wait a while before being called to the exam area.

Step 4: Multiple Choice

The first section of the test consists of 50 multiple choice questions, and will look something like this mock-up. You will be given 57 minutes to complete this section, a clock in the top right hand corner will tell you how much time you have remaining. You must get 43 out of the 50 questions right to pass this part of the test.

There is an option of completing a practice session to get used to the system, which lasts up to 15 minutes.

The questions range from text only, questions about road-sign graphics, and questions relating to photographs of road and driving scenarios. Most require one answer to be selected, although some ask for a number of responses from a range of possibilities.


If you are unsure of an answer, you can use the "Flag" option to highlight questions that you can return to later. And you can review all of your answers at the end provided it is within the time allotted.

TOP TIP
Don't rush, you have plenty of time to complete the test and don't have to use the full 57 minutes.

When you have finished this section you can take a short break before you move on to section two.

Step 5: Hazard Perception

The Hazard Perception test consists 14 video clips. You have to click whenever you spot any developing hazards, the earlier you see the hazard the higher your score. It will look something like this.

The test is designed to explore your ability to understand potential dangers and to see if you can think ahead in planning your driving. This in turn cuts down risks demonstrating your ability as a safe driver.

Always be aware as one of the 14 clips contains two developing hazards. As with driving, you will only have one chance to respond to each situation, so concentrate hard! You must receive 44 out of a possible score of 75 to pass.

Step 6: After the test

Once the test is complete leave the terminal and go back to reception. You will be given a print out with your results on. Don't worry if you fail, reapply and try again. If you pass you will be given a certificate. Not only will this look good on your wall, but it also contains a unique number that you'll need to apply for your practical test.