The Theory Test

The theory test is made up of a multiple-choice part and a hazard perception part and you must pass both. If you fail either you will need to re take the whole test.

The Multiple Choice Test

Before the test starts you will be given instructions on how the test screen works and you will be given the opportunity to do a series of practice questions to get used to the test format.

The Test

A question will appear on the screen together with several possible answers for you to choose from (some questions may require more than one answer).

TIP: If you are stuck on any question do not waste time. You can flag the question and come back to it. Move on to the next question you can answer and continue through the test. Only go back and attempt the questions you are unsure off when you have gone through all the questions.  

Some questions will be in the form of a case study for example: you may be given a short story outlining an experience you may come across when driving followed by a number of questions about this story.

For a standard car or motorcycle test you will be allowed 57 minutes for the theory test and to pass you must get 43 questions correct from a total of 50 questions asked.

Click here to take an official practice driving theory test

After completing the theory test you will be allowed a break of up to three minutes before the hazard perception part starts.

The Hazard Perception Test

You will be shown a short video clip about how the test works before you start.

The Test

The test comprises a series of video clips on a computer screen. The video clips will feature everyday road scenes and will contain one or sometimes two developing hazards. A developing hazard is something that may require you take action for example changing speed or direction. The most you can score for each hazard is five points. Upon spotting the hazard you must press the mouse button and the earlier you spot the hazard the higher your score will be.

TIP: do not press the mouse continuously or at random or you will score zero for that clip.

TIP: as an example you may see a parked car. A safely parked car is a potential hazard but not a developing hazard. You will only score marks in the test when spotting developing hazards - for example  the car now begins to indicate as if to pull away. This is now a developing hazard and a response at this point will score marks.

For a standard car or motorcycle test you will be shown 14 clips with 15 developing hazards. To pass you must score 44 points out of the possible total of 75 points.

Click here to watch official examples of hazard perception clips

At The End Of Your Theory Test

If you pass both parts of your theory test you will get a pass certificate which will be needed to book a practical test. Your theory test certificate will expire after two years if you have not passed your practical test within this time.