You may book your theory test three months before you are 17 but you cannot take the test until your 17th birthday. There are many forms of training material, on line, books, apps and DVD’s. We recommend you purchase a copy of the highway code and visit the Driving Test Success website Click here for details of training materials which are similar to the theory test questions and Hazard perception video clips used by the DVSA.
The theory test questions are no longer published in learning materials, this stops candidates from simply memorising theory test questions and answers. There are no changes to the test format it is still in two parts, the Theory Test followed by the Hazard Perception test. The time allowed and the pass marks also remain the same. The theory test consists of 50 multiple choice questions.
You have 57 minutes to complete the test and must achieve 43 correct answers to pass.
The hazard perception test will start within three minutes of completing the theory test. It consists of 14 video clips, each lasting about one minute. Each clip will contain one or more hazards which you will need to respond to by clicking the mouse button as soon as you see the hazard developing. There are 15 hazards in total, the earlier you respond, the higher your score.
A total of 75 points are available with a pass mark of 44.
Find your nearest Theory Test Centre: click here
Caution: If using a search engine to book or change tests, you may be directed to a site that charges an extra booking fee. To avoid this, click the links below:
To book your theory test: direct.gov.uk/booktheorytest
Or to change your existing theory test: direct.gov.uk/changetheorytest
You must pass your theory test before booking your driving test. When booking your test you will need to quote your theory test certificate number.
On the day of your driving test we recommend you arrive with your driving instructor / supervisor ten minutes before your test is due to begin. Your examiner will meet you in the DVSA waiting room. The examiner will ask to see your provisional driving licence (photo card). You will then be asked if you would like your instructor / supervisor to accompany you on the test.
Before the test begins you will be asked to read a vehicle number plate from a distance of 20.5 metres (67 feet).
The examiner will then ask you one ‘tell me’ question about basic car maintenance before you drive and one ‘show me’ question while you are driving.
(click here to view the Vehicle Checks),
Once in the car, the examiner will ask if you would like a brief explanation as to what the test involves, then ask you to move away when you are ready.
For approximately 40 minutes you will be tested driving in various road and traffic conditions.
During the test you will be asked one of these questions on the move:
1. When it’s safe to do so, can you show me how you wash and clean the rear windscreen?
2. When it’s safe to do so, can you show me how you wash and clean the front windscreen?
3. When it’s safe to do so, can you show me how you switch on your dipped headlights?
4. When it’s safe to do so, can you show me how you set the rear demister?
5. When it’s safe to do so, can you show me how you operate the horn?
6. When it’s safe to do so, can you show me how you demist the front windscreen?
7. When it’s safe to do so, can you show me how you open and close the side window?
You will also be asked to complete one reversing manoeuvre. The examiner will choose from:
– Pull over on the right hand side of the road and reverse back about 2 car lengths.
– Either reverse into a parking space or drive into a parking space and reverse out.
– Reverse parking – parallel park in reverse at the side of the road.
Your test will also include 20 minutes of independent driving. You will be asked to follow directions from a Sat Nav (1 in 5 candidates will be asked to follow directions using signs). This is designed to assess your ability to drive safely while making decisions independently. You may also be asked to carry out an emergency stop. Within the allocated test time you must have fewer than sixteen driving faults and no serious faults.
If you make a mistake, don’t panic, it as it maybe a less serious driving fault and might not affect your result.
Once you have completed the test the examiner will give you your result. If you pass, the examiner will take your provisional licence and issue you a pass certificate (you will receive your full licence in the post within three weeks). If you fail, the examiner will explain the mistakes you made. You will need to wait ten clear working days before you can take another test.
Caution: If using a search engine to book or change tests, you may be directed to a site that charges an extra booking fee. To avoid this, click the links below:
To book your practical test: direct.gov.uk/bookpracticaltest
Or to change your existing practical test: direct.gov.uk/changepracticaltest