Learning to drive can be a nerve-racking experience – so knowing what to expect can help you prepare. Here is all the information you’ll need to be ready for your driving theory test.
Before you can get behind the wheel with a full driving licence, you will need to pass a theory and then a practical test.
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.
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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.
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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 [emailprotected] 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 likeDriving Theory Test UKis 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?
You’ve passed your driving theory test – well done! But what happens next?
Following this, you’ll need to book your practical test.
Your successful theory test certificate will last for two years from the day you receive notice that you have passed.
Hopefully you are now ready for your theory test – good luck!
If you have any tips for learner drivers, leave them in the comments below.
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FAQs
What should I read for my driving theory test? ›
To prepare for your theory test, the Driver and Vehicle Agency (DVA) recommends that you study the Highway Code. The Driver and Vehicle Standards Agency (DVSA) publishes a wide range of official learning materials. You can buy these from high street book stores or online.
How many correct answers do you need on a theory test? ›The Theory Test pass mark is 86%, so you'll need to answer 43 out of 50 multiple choice questions correctly to pass. The questions will cover topics that include alertness, attitude, safety, road signs, and much more.
How to pass your theory test 2023? ›- 2.1 Keep calm!
- 2.2 Take your time.
- 2.3 Don't spend too long on a question.
- 2.4 Read the question carefully.
- 2.5 Process of elimination.
- 2.6 Double check your answers.
- 2.7 Have a guess if you're unsure.
- 2.8 Have faith in yourself.
Along with other factors, what is highly likely to be the reason that more people are failing a Theory Test is that candidates are turning up for their test unprepared. As with anything in life, if you want to achieve a first-time pass, preparation is the key to success.
What is the best way to study for theory test? ›Complete some mock Theory Test online sessions using the set exam papers (if you complete all the pre-set papers then you will have seen all of the questions at least once). Once you are scoring a consistent pass with the set exam papers then try a test based on the hardest questions.
What is the hardest thing to do on the driving test? ›The hardest part of passing a driving test isn't remembering to signal, doing head checks, or reverse parking. No, the hardest part is dealing with the nerves of driving a car while having your every move monitored by an examiner, and knowing that a few mistakes could cause you to fail your test.
How long is a theory test take? ›How long does the theory test take? You've got 1 hour and 20 minutes (57 minutes for the multiple choice questions) to complete your driving theory test, although some people finish it sooner.
How many people pass theory test first time? ›Vocational tests
The test pass rates in the year-ending March 2022, compared to the year-ending March 2020, for: theory multiple-choice was 65.0%, up 2.1 percentage points. theory hazard perception was 83.4%, up 3.6 percentage points. practical on-road was 61.5%, up 1.5 percentage points.
It may be a different question covering the same topic, but it may be worded slightly differently, and it may have different answer options. This means that by going through your revision you will know what you're expected to learn and understand, but you cannot practice the actual question you'll be asked.
Are theory tests hard? ›It could certainly be said that the changes to the theory test format over the years have made it harder to pass. In fact, MoneySuperMarket compiled a study recently which involved 2,800 drivers being asked sample questions from the theory test. Only 11% of them were able to answer every question correctly!
Is it easy to pass theory? ›
Contrary to popular theory test myths, the test is not a walk in the park. It can be hard to pass if you don't know the format or lack a good foundation of theory test knowledge. The theory test itself is broken down into two sections—50 multiple-choice questions and a hazard perception test.
What if I failed my theory test by one mark? ›We often hear learners complaining they only failed the theory test "by one mark" - but this actually means they got 8 questions wrong. Try to pass with as close to 100% as possible to safeguard you on the day of your actual test, where you may also be faced by nerves and distractions.
Can I take my theory test online? ›The quickest and easiest way to book your official Driver and Vehicle Agency (DVA) car, motorcycle, lorry or bus driving theory test is online. When you book using this service, you only pay the cost of the test – there's no extra booking fee.
Is it common to fail your theory test first time? ›A major reason many people fail the theory test first time is because nerves cause them to lose concentration. As you aren't walking into the unknown this time, your sense of anxiety shouldn't be half as bad, which will enable you to relax and just get on with it.
What questions do most people fail with on theory test? ›- Name three situations where you may overtake another vehicle on the left? ...
- A cycle lane is marked by a solid white line. ...
- Unbalanced wheels on a car may cause: ...
- What does this sign mean? ...
- What should you do when parking. ...
- Your vehicle has a catalytic convertor. ...
- How should you dispose.
Most people pass within 2-3 attempts and, with the DVSA charging £23 for each test, your wallet will be rooting for you to pass in the fewest goes possible. But some people find the theory test very tricky and, as a result, have shelled out for several theory tests.
How do I know if I'm ready for my Theory Test? ›Once you can consistently pass the mock tests and recall relevant information without consulting a cheat sheet, you're ready for the real thing. This may seem fairly obvious, but the point we're really trying to drill home is that the theory test is not just something you can wing.
How many questions is the Theory Test? ›You have 57 minutes to answer 50 multiple-choice questions. Before the test starts you'll get: instructions on how the test works.
Will I pass my Theory Test without revising? ›The theory test is split into two sections: multiple choice questions and hazard perception clips. You need to pass both sections in order to get your theory test pass certificate. So, don't count on being able to put all your eggs in one basket here: you'll need to revise both sections to perform well on the test!
Which state is hardest to pass driving test? ›Arizona topped the list with a pass rate of 39.3%, followed by Maryland at 45.4%, the study shows. Kentucky was ranked as the easiest state to pass a driving test with a pass rate of 74.3%.
What is the most attempts to pass a driving test? ›
A huge number of aspiring drivers pass the test in 2nd or 3rd attempt. However, most of the standard drivers are able to pass within 5th attempt. But then, you will also find some who took 6th to 12th attempt to pass the test.
What's the worst time for a driving test? ›Late afternoon or evening driving tests
As with the early morning tests, these times may be subject to rush hour and depending on your opinion, are best avoided.
You will need to pass this before you can book your Practical Driving Test. The Theory Test consists of two separate parts, the multiple-choice section and Hazard Perception. To pass the test, you will need to score at least 43 out of 50 questions in the multiple-choice section, and 44 out of 75 for Hazard Perception.
How much is the theory test? ›...
Cost.
| Category A or B | €45 |
|---|---|
| Category C or D | €72 |
| Category CD | €84 |
| Module TMT or BMT | €45 |
The hazard perception section
You need to get 44 marks out of the 75 available to pass. If you pass one part of the theory test but fail the other, you will need to retake the entire exam. This is the second part of the theory test, and it is taken almost immediately after the multiple-choice questions.
How many questions are there in the theory test and how many marks do I need to pass? You'll have 50 multiple-choice questions and 57 minutes to finish. You need to get 43 right to pass.
Is it better to pass your theory test first? ›Should I pass my theory test before I start my driving lessons? There are no strict rules in place to determine whether learners should or shouldn't pass the theory test before they start driving lessons. It's all down to personal preference.
How many lessons do you need to pass driving? ›The average learner needs 20 hours of practice to pass the driving test, in addition to 45 hours of driving lessons. This is only an average though and shouldn't be something you feel you have to compare yourself to.
Does everyone sit the same theory test? ›No, They are random questions, the exam is taken in 2 parts, If you pass one part of the theory test but fail the other, you will need to retake the entire exam.
Is there two parts to a theory test? ›You must have a provisional driving licence to book your theory test. There are 2 parts to the test: multiple-choice questions. hazard perception - a video test about spotting hazards on the road.
Are the theory test questions random? ›
Each question has only one correct answer. All 50 multiple-choice questions must be answered. All questions are randomly selected from a database of thousands questions.
What type of questions are asked in theory test? ›Theory Test FAQs
The test consists of 50 multiple-choice questions taken from a bank of over 1000 questions, all based on the Highway Code, the environment, and road safety matters. The questions include a case study - a scenario on which five questions are based.
| Question | Topic | |
|---|---|---|
| How can you use your vehicle's engine to control your speed? | Vehicle handling | Save |
| How do smart motorways prevent traffic bunching? | Motorway rules | Save |
| How does drinking alcohol affect your driving behaviour? | Hazard awareness | Save |
| How far are you allowed to reverse? | Rules of the road | Save |
Depends on the class. It's definitely possible to pass with a failing grade on tests in certain cases. As others have pointed out, if tests aren't worth a large portion of your final grade, or if the class has a large curve, it is possible.
How many marks can you get on a driving test in California? ›In California, you can get up to 15 points wrong. If you get more than 15 points off you fail, but if you make any critical errors you automatically fail.
Is the theory test on a computer? ›How is the Theory Test taken? The Theory Test is taken on a computer at an official DVSA test centre and consists of two individual tests which must both be taken on the same day.
What is the voiceover on the theory test? ›How the theory test voiceover works. A voiceover lets you hear the theory test instructions and questions through headphones. The questions will be read out to you automatically. You can hear the possible answers by clicking on the text on the screen.
Is it hard to pass driving theory test? ›Contrary to popular theory test myths, the test is not a walk in the park. It can be hard to pass if you don't know the format or lack a good foundation of theory test knowledge. The theory test itself is broken down into two sections—50 multiple-choice questions and a hazard perception test.
Can you pass your theory test online? ›Welcome to Theory Test Online for car drivers
Specially designed by driver training experts LDC to ensure you pass both parts of the UK driving Theory Test (i.e. Multiple Choice and Hazard Perception) for car drivers with ease no matter how you connect to the internet (i.e. via PC, Mac, Laptop, Smartphone or Tablet).
It may be a different question covering the same topic, but it may be worded slightly differently, and it may have different answer options. This means that by going through your revision you will know what you're expected to learn and understand, but you cannot practice the actual question you'll be asked.
Who has failed their theory test the most? ›
Our records show that a 28 year old female candidate from the London area has recorded 107 failed attempts at the car theory test.
What happens if you fail your theory? ›If you fail
You'll get a letter at the test centre. It'll tell you which parts you did not score enough points on so you know what to practise. You must book and take the full test again, even if you passed one part this time. You have to wait at least 3 working days before taking your test again.
You have 57 minutes to answer 50 multiple-choice questions. Before the test starts you'll get: instructions on how the test works.
What is the official theory test app? ›The NEW must-have app, Official DVSA Theory Test Kit for Car Drivers, from the people who set the tests. Covering everything you need to know, the kit includes: Over 700 official DVSA theory test revision questions for car drivers.
Which state has the easiest driving test? ›South Dakota has the easiest driving test of any state, followed by Ohio and New York, the study found.
What state has the strictest driving test? ›— Washington state has one of the toughest driving tests in the country. According to the state Department of Licensing, passing rates for the knowledge test are around 46% at DOL offices.
What state has the hardest license test? ›In fact, a study by Siegfried & Jensen shows Washington is the hardest state in the nation to get a driver's license. The study's authors obtained information from each state DMV's official driver handbook and driver testing driving-tests.org and DMV.org.