FAQs
What are the two parts to the test?
Part One - Multiple Choice
There are 50 multiple choice questions - you need 43 correct to pass. The multiple choice part is delivered using touch screen computer.
Part Two - Hazard Perception Test
The second part is a hazard perception test - where you are shown footage of developing hazards which you have to react to. Your response is recorded through the use of a computer mouse button. You will be presented with a series of 14 video clips which feature every day road scenes. In each clip there will be at least one developing hazard, but one of the clips will feature two developing hazards. To achieve a high score you will need to respond to the developing hazard during the early part of its development. The maximum you can score on each hazard is five, and the pass mark is 44 out of 75.
When will I receive the results of the test?
You will receive your result by the Test Centre staff.
If I pass one part and fail the other do I only have to resit the part I failed?
No. If you fail any part of the theory test you have to take the complete test again.
How long is the test valid for?
The test is valid for 2 years. You have to take a Practical Test within two years from the date of your passing the Theory Test.
I have a different licence, am I exempt from the Theory Test?
There are certain licences that are exempt. Full motorcycle licence holders are exempt if they obtained the full licence by February 2000. After that date you will have to take the Theory Test. Full automatic car licence holders are exempt. If you think you may be exempt contact the DSA on 0870 0101372.
Is there a website with more information?
Yes the DSA have their own website with up to the minute news. The address is www.dsa.gov.uk
THE PRACTICAL TEST FAQ
The driving test is designed to see if you can drive safely, know the Highway Code and can demonstrate this through your driving skill.
What will the test include?
Eyesight check
The test will include an eyesight check. The test requires you to read a number plate at a distance of 20 metres. If you fail this, your test will not continue.
Vehicle safety questions
These are basic safety checks that a driver should carry out to ensure the vehicle is safe for use. Although some checks may involve the candidate opening the bonnet to identify where fluid levels would be checked, pupils will not be asked to touch a hot engine or physically check fluid levels.
Candidates will be asked two questions, one "show me" and one "tell me". One or both questions answered incorrectly will result in one driving fault being recorded.
Driving Part of the Test
During the driving test the examiner will give directions to Test Routes that are designed to be as uniform as possible and will include a range of typical road and traffic conditions. You will be examined on your general driving and on two reversing exercises chosen from:
- Reversing around a corner.
- Turning in the road.
- Reverse parking
You may also be asked to carry out an emergency stop exercise.
The examiner will be looking for an overall safe standard of driving. You can make up to 15 driving faults and still pass the test. 16 or more results in failure. If you commit one serious or dangerous fault you will fail the test. If at any time the examiner considers you to be a danger to other road users your test will be terminated.
After the Partical Test
When the test is over, the examiner will tell you whether you have passed or failed, and will go through your performance during the test.
Booking a Test
Book or manage your test appointments online at:
Or Telephone: Booking Line: 0300 200 1122 For hearing impaired: 0300 200 1144
Is it true that the minimum age for driving is going up to 18?
No. This is a rumour only that has circulated but has no basis. If it were to be suggested as a legitimate idea, it would take an Act of Parliament to become law, which would take some time to get through. Apart from the fact that it would be a very unpopular decision, and a possible election loser.
New Drivers Act
The Road Traffic (New Drivers) Act 1995 came into force on 1 June 1997. The Act means that drivers who receive six or more penalty points on their licence, within two years of passing their driving test will effectively be forced to become learners again. They will have to display 'L' plates once more and be accompanied by a fully qualified driver over the age of 21 who has held a full licence for at least three years until they re-pass both the theory test and practical driving test.
The two year 'probationary period' will begin on the day the first driving test is passed. Drivers who already hold a full licence for one category of vehicle will not be affected if they pass a test in an additional category.
The 'Extended Driving Test' can be imposed by the court on anyone convicted of dangerous driving offences and lasts for approximately one hour and is assessed at the same standard as the normal practical driving test. However, the extra time will give the opportunity for the Examiner to take the candidate into more varied and potentially difficult situations than on the normal test. The candidate will also have to carry out the normal driving test manoeuvres. The DSA recommend that anyone requiring an Extended Test should take some lessons first with an Approved Driving Instructor.
