A Learner driver’s guide to Driving Theory Tests

For the learner drive booking a Driving Theory Test can be a scary experience. This serves as the first step to becoming a fully-fledged driver, and failing the test can see you waiting for another lot of time before you can concentrate on the practical side of driving. This guide walks you through the process of booking a driving theory test, tells you about what you can expect and provides tips to ensure that you pass the test first time.

What Driving Theory Tests involve
There are two stages to your driving theory test, both of which you’ll need to pass in order to pass the overall test. You will firstly cover a range of multiple choice questions and you’ll then undertake a hazard perception test where you’ll need to click on an interactive screen that displays a car driving around an area.

Test conditions
Similarly to official educational tests, Driving Theory Tests are undertaken under strict test conditions. This means no talking and no prohibited items (your personal items will be kept in the designated locker area).
Prior to the test commencing you’ll be given the test instructions. This will explain that you move through the questions one by one, with this section lasting for 57 minutes and requiring a score of 43 out of 50 in order to pass.
The hazard perception section will show you 14 video clips, throughout which each will have at least one ‘developing hazard’, however one of the clips will have two ‘developing hazards’.

Tips for passing you’re Driving Theory Test
Practice, Practice, Practice!
The number one tip is to revise! There’s simply no getting around it, if you want to pass you’re going to have to put in the hours. Plan your time and section off your Driving Theory Test book, so that you’re prepared well in advance and can cover everything in detail.
You additionally shouldn’t neglect part two of your theory test, running through your CD as many times as possible will stand you in good stead come Theory Test day.

Don’t be afraid to book
Booking the test shouldn’t be put off until you’ve learnt everything. Very often waiting times can be relatively long, so be sure to check with your local office as to how long the waiting times are running at.

Don’t panic
It’s easy to feel pressure when sitting this test, and if there are questions is that you don’t know the answer to you may start to panic. However you should try and keep a cool head and where you don’t know the answer to a question take an educated guess. Think about each option and which is more likely to be the correct answer, rather than just choosing one randomly.