Theory Test
When learning to drive, there are a few hurdles that you need to go through before you can be on the road with your pink driving licence. Once you begin to take driving lessons, you will notice the many road signs and potential hazards that you may not have seen before as a passenger. These road signs are here to help you find your way around safely and inform you of potential hazards ahead. Both road signs and hazards are tested on the theory test.
Before you can undertake a theory test, you must have a provisional licence. An application form for these can be obtained from a local driving instructor or school, a local post office or by contacting the DVLA directly. Once you have a provisional licence you are able to take driving lessons and apply for your theory test.
The theory test is split into two sections:
- • Multiple Choice Questions
- • Hazard Perception
There are 50 Multiple Choice questions which have to be answered in 57 minutes. You must answer at least 43 out of 50 questions to pass this part of the theory test. The questions will range from identifying road signs to potential real-life situations which you could come across whilst driving.
The hazard perception part of the theory test consists of 14 video clips showing everyday road signs and developing hazards. A road hazard is anything that could potentially affect the road user’s speed or direction in which they are travelling. A short video is shown before as an example so you know what to expect and how to answer the questions. Most of the clips will only contain one hazard but there will be one clip that will show two. The earlier the hazard is noticed, the more points you get with the highest being 5, and the lowest being 0 (not noticing the hazard at all). In order to pass this part of the theory test, you must get at least 44 out of 75 points.
Both parts of the test are taken on the same day, one after the other. In order to pass the theory test, you MUST pass both parts. The results are given straight after you take the test, and if you pass you will receive a theory test pass certificate. You are then able to book your practical driving test if you are ready. The theory test lasts for 2 years so if you haven’t passed your practical driving test within this timeframe, you must redo your theory test.
At Budget Driving School, we recommend that you take driving lessons whilst also undertaking your theory test as it helps you learn road signs and notice potential hazards quicker than if you haven’t started driving yet. All our driving instructors at Budget Driving School are well informed of the theory test and can give extra tuition if need be. Although there are many resources online, our driving instructors can help you understand the different aspects of driving to ensure you pass your theory test first time. If you would like some extra help with your theory test, then please do not hesitate to call or email us.