The Theory Test
There are two parts to the theory test. The first part consisting of multiple choice questions the second part a hazard perception test. You will need to pass both parts of the theory test. If you pass one part and fail one part you will need to take both parts again.When you pass your theory test you will be given a pass certificate. The theory certificate is valid for two years.
The multiple choice questions
You'll be asked 50 questions in 57 minutes and the pass mark will be 43 out of 50.
The hazard perception test
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.The pass mark for the car and motorcycle hazard perception part of the theory test is 44 out of 75.
The practical driving test
A standard driving test takes about 40 minutes.You can make up to 15 driving faults and still pass the test (16 or more results in failure). However, if you commit one serious or dangerous fault you will fail the test. If at any time your examiner considers you to be a danger to other road users your test will be stopped. The test will include an eyesight test (if you fail this, your test will not continue). 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. Please find examples of safety check questions on the safety check questions page. You will be examined on your general driving and on two reversing exercises. The reversing exercises will be chosen from:
- reversing around a corner left or right
- turning in the road
- reverse parking on the road or in to a bay in the test centre car park
You may also be asked to carry out an emergency stop exercise.