Theory Test

The theory test is made up of a multiple-choice part and a hazard perception part. You need to pass both parts to pass the theory test.

If you pass one part and fail the other you’ll fail the whole test, and you’ll need to take both parts again.

You can book your theory test online at www.direct.gov.uk/booktheorytest or by phoning DVSA on 0300 200 1155

The questions in the multiple-choice test will depend on the category of vehicle you are hoping to get a licence for. For example, a motorcycle theory test will contain questions that don’t appear in any other test.

For the hazard perception test there are no separate versions for different vehicles, but the pass mark is different for them.

Before the test starts you’ll be given instructions on how it works.

You can choose to do a practice session of multiple-choice questions to get used to the layout of the test. At the end of the practice session the real test will begin.

How the multiple-choice part works

A question and several possible answers will appear on a computer screen – you have to select the correct answer. Some questions may need more than one answer.

Multiple-choice test

Time allowed Pass mark

Car 57 minutes 43 out of 50

After the multiple-choice part you can choose to have a break of up to three minutes before the hazard perception part starts.

You’ll then be shown a series of video clips on a computer screen. The clips:

Feature everyday road scenes

Contain at least one developing hazard – but one of the clips will feature two developing hazards

A developing hazard is something that may result in you having to take some action, such as changing speed or direction.

How the hazard perception scoring works

The earlier you notice a developing hazard and make a response, the higher you will score. The most you can score for each developing hazard is five points To get a high score you need to:

Respond to the developing hazard during the early part of its development

Press the mouse button as soon as you see a hazard developing

You won’t be able to review your answers to the hazard perception test.If you click continuously or in a pattern during a clip a message will appear at the end. It will tell you that you have scored zero for that particular clip.

An example of when to respond to a hazard

Think of a parked car on the side of the road. When you first see it, it isn’t doing anything – it’s just a parked car. If you respond at this point, you wouldn’t score any marks, but you wouldn’t lose any marks.

The difference between a potential and developing hazard

When you get closer to the car, you notice that its right-hand indicator starts to flash. This would make you think that the driver of the car is going to move away. The hazard is now developing and a response at this point would score marks. The indicator coming on is a sign that the car has changed from a potential hazard into a developing hazard.

When you get closer to the car, you’ll probably see it start to move away from the side of the road. You should make another response at this point.

Category Video clips Developing hazards Pass mark

Car and motorcycle 14 clips 15 44 out of 75

At the end of your theory test

Your pass certificate

Your theory test pass certificate runs out after two years of passing your test

When you have finished the test you can leave the test room – but you won’t be able to go back in. You’ll then be given your result by the test centre staff.

Your theory test pass certificate If you pass your theory test, you’ll get a pass certificate. You’ll need this when you book and take your practical test, so it’s important that you keep it safe.

Your theory test pass certificate runs out after two years of passing your test. If you have not passed your practical test by then, you’ll need to take and pass the theory test again.

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