How the Theory Test works

The theory test can be seen as a two part test, the multiple choice part, and the Hazard Perception part.Both parts of the test are taken at the same time and you must pass both parts together otherwise you must repeat both again at a later date.

Multiple Choice

The multiple choice part of the theory test consists of fifty multiple choice questions, there are are more than one possible answer given for each question and you have to select the correct one using the touch screen or mouse. The questions are randomly selected from a bank of over 1000.

From 28th September 2009, five of the questions will be based on a case study, a short story if you like, you can refer to this story as much as you like and answer the five questions according to the information contained within it. At any time, you may skip a question and return to it later but you must complete the questions in the alloted time of 57 minutes. In order to pass this part of the test, you need to answer fourty three questions out of fifty correctly.

Hazard Perception

Immediately after the multiple choice part of the test, the Hazard perception part will begin. After a brief explanation of how the test works, you will be shown fourteen video clips that will last approximately one minute each, all of the clips will include at least one developing hazard involving other road users or road conditions.

As you watch the scene as seen from the windscreen of a car, and you see one of these developing hazards, you should click your mouse. Points are scored depending on how quickly you see the hazard and click your mouse. A maximum of five points can be scored for each hazard and there are fifteen to spot (yes, one clip will contain two!).

You must score points from the maximum of seventy five to achieve a pass at this part of the test. If you have scored at least fourty three points in the multiple choice part, and fourty four in the Hazard perception part of the test, you will be given a theory test pass certificate, KEEP THIS SAFE as you will be required to present this when the time comes to take your practical test.

Study Aids

There are many study aids to help you prepare for the theory test as recommended by the DSA, I intend to have some of these available to help you. The current cost of the Theory test is £31 and the nearest test centre is in Middlesbrough and I can book this test for you when you are ready.