Theory Test
Your Theory Test is made up of two parts: the first part is a multiple choice test, the second is the hazard perception test. You need to pass both parts of the Theory Test. Once successful you can then apply for your Practical Test when your Instructor thinks you are ready
Chequered Flag will prepare you for the Theory and Hazard Perception Test if required.
Multiple Choice Test
This consists of 50 questions displayed on a touch screen computer which is designed to test your knowledge of driving theory, in particular the rules of the road and best driving practice. In your test some of the multiple choice questions will be presented as a case study. These are designed to test:
- Knowledge (basic recall of facts)
- Comprehension (basic understanding)
- Application (practical use of knowledge and understanding)
This is done by creating a set of situations that you might encounter in real-life when driving. You will be asked some questions relating to the scenario and you will make a decision on how you react or behave in each case.
Each question will still be in the multiple choice format as with the other Theory Test questions. You must answer 43 or more questions correctly in a time limit of 57 minutes to pass. Some questions require more than one answer to pass on that question.
Hazard Perception Test
Recognition of available clues and perception of danger are skills that are necessary in all drivers and riders, irrespective of the vehicle used.
The Second Part of your Theory Test is the Hazard Perception Test which is also delivered on a computer. In this part you will be asked to watch a series of video clips of everyday road scenes and you must respond by clicking a button on the mouse. In each clip there will be at least one developing hazard, but one of the clips will feature two developing hazards. To achieve a high score you will need to respond to the developing hazard during the early part of its development.
There is a maximum score of 5 points for each clip with a total score of 75. You must achieve at least 44 points to pass You should respond by pressing the mouse button as soon as you see a hazard developing that may result in you, the driver, having to take some action, such as changing speed or direction. The earlier you notice a developing hazard and make a response, the higher your score.
You will not be able to review your answers to the hazard perception test; as on the road, you will only have one chance to respond to the developing hazard, so you will need to concentrate throughout each clip. If you react inappropriately during the video clip by clicking continuously or in a pattern of responses you will score zero for that clip. At the end of the clip a pop-up box will appear informing you that you have scored zero for that particular clip.
Its best to start studying for your Theory test as soon as possible. Chequered Flag recommends you study the official DVSA publications, apps, DVD-ROM’s because this is where the Theory questions are taken from and to familiarise with the layout of the test.
When you pass your Theory Test, you will be given a certificate. The certificate is valid for two years from the date of your test. This means that you have to take and pass your practical test within this two year period. If you do’t you will have to take and pass your Theory Test again before you can book your practical test. Remember to keep your Theory Certificate in a safe place as you will need it when you go and sit your practical test.