In order to gain your full UK driving licence you must pass the theory test first, then the practical driving test. Details of both these tests are described below.
Theory Test
Part 1 – Theory Test (Multiple Choice)
Are you gearing up for the theory test? Here’s everything you need to know:
- Test Overview: The theory test consists of 50 multiple-choice questions, and you have 57 minutes to complete them. Before the test begins, you’ll receive detailed instructions on how the test works, along with the opportunity to practice some questions.
- Question Strategy: Take your time to read each question carefully, ensuring you understand what’s being asked and how many answers to select. Avoid rushing through questions and double-check your answers before moving on.
- Video Component: In addition to the multiple-choice questions, there are three questions centered around a short video. The video has no sound, and you can watch it as many times as needed within the time limit. Use this opportunity to observe carefully and answer the related questions accurately.
- Passing Criteria: To pass this part of the test, you must achieve an 86% score, meaning you need to answer at least 43 out of 50 questions correctly. Focus on thorough preparation and effective time management to meet this target.
By familiarizing yourself with the test format, practicing diligently, and adopting effective strategies, you’ll be well-equipped to tackle the theory test with confidence
Part 2 – Hazard Perception Test
To prepare for the Hazard Perception Test here’s what you need to know to excel:
- Test Overview: The hazard perception test comprises 14 video clips, each presenting a driver’s view of everyday road scenarios. Your task is to identify developing hazards by clicking the mouse promptly.
- Scoring System: Each clip is scored out of 5 points. Clicking the mouse as soon as a hazard develops earns you the maximum score. However, points decrease over time, with early or late clicks resulting in a score of 0.
- Strategic Clicking: It’s advised to click for each hazard you spot to maximize your chances of gaining points. However, avoid clicking in predictable patterns or excessively, as the system may disqualify you from the clip, scoring you 0 points.
- Passing Criteria: To pass the hazard perception test, you must score at least 44 out of 75. Understanding the scoring system and practicing effective hazard identification are key to achieving this target.
By mastering these strategies and familiarizing yourself with the test format, you’ll boost your chances of passing the hazard perception test with flying colours.
Booking and Attending the Theory Test
- Eligibility: You can apply for the theory test once you reach your 17th birthday, except if you’re 16 and eligible for the higher rate of mobility in PIP.
- Cost and Booking: The theory test fee is £23. To book your test, visit the Gov.uk website directly. Convenient links are available throughout our website for easy access.
- Essential Requirements: Remember to bring your provisional photocard licence with you to the test centre. Without it, you won’t be permitted to take the test.
- Test Day Preparation: Arrive at the test centre 15 minutes before your scheduled start time. Lockers are provided for storing personal items, as they’re not allowed in the testing area. After completing the test, you can retrieve your belongings and results.
- Passing Criteria: To pass the theory test, you must successfully navigate both the multiple-choice and hazard perception sections. Your result letter will include a reference number necessary for booking your practical test, so ensure you keep it safe.
By following these steps and adequately preparing for your theory test, you’ll be on track to success. Start your journey towards obtaining your driver’s licence today.
Practical Test
Booking The Practical Test
- Online Booking: Use the link below to book through the DVSA pages on Gov.uk. Make sure you have the following details ready:
- Valid UK driving licence
- Theory test certificate number
- Valid debit or credit card for payment
- Phone Booking: If you prefer, you can book your test by phone. Call 0300 200 1122 and follow the instructions provided.
- Cost: The test fee varies depending on whether you book for a weekday or weekend. It currently costs £62.00 for a weekday test and £75.00 for a weekend test.
- Notice Requirements: Keep in mind that you need to provide at least 3 clear working days’ notice if you want to change or cancel your test, whether online or by phone.
Taking The Practical Test
You should arrive for test with your instructor in their car (you can take your own car if preferred), you will arrive 10 minutes before the start time. Then the following will happen:
- Examiner greets you in the waiting room.
- Your licence and address will be checked.
- You read and sign the declarations.
- You then confirm your email and state if you would like your instructor to accompany you on test.
- An eyesight test is given where you must read a number plate from 20 meters (new style number plates.
- The first “show me tell me” question is asked (1 of 14 which are listed below)
- The drive then lasts for around 40 minutes and will take in various roads and traffic conditions, you will be asked to do one of four manoeuvres, a section of independent driving following signs or a sat-nav, possibly an emergency stop (1 in 3 tests).
- During the drive you will be asked the second “show me tell me” question whilst the car is moving. The examiner will say “when it is safe to do so can you show me how…” to do something from one of the seven show me questions. (see below)
- throughout the drive the examiner will be assessing all aspects of your driving and will deliver you result at the end of the test outside the test centre
Show Me Tell Me Questions
“Tell Me” Questions
1. Tell me how you’d check that the brakes are working before starting a journey
Brakes should not feel spongy or slack. Brakes should be tested as you set off. Vehicle should not pull to one side.
2. Tell me where you’d find the information for the recommended tyre pressures for this car and how tyre pressures should be checked.
Manufacturer’s guide, use a reliable pressure gauge, check and adjust pressures when tyres are cold, don’t forget spare tyre, remember to refit valve caps.
3. Tell me how you make sure your head restraint is correctly adjusted so it provides the best protection in the event of a crash.
The head restraint should be adjusted so the rigid part of the head restraint is at least as high as the eye or top of the ears, and as close to the back of the head as is comfortable. Note: Some restraints might not be adjustable.
4. Tell me how you’d check the tyres to ensure that they have sufficient tread depth and that their general condition is safe to use on the road.
No cuts and bulges, 1.6mm of tread depth across the central three-quarters of the breadth of the tyre, and around the entire outer circumference of the tyre.
5. Tell me how you’d check that the headlights and tail lights are working. You don’t need to exit the vehicle.
Explain you’d operate the switch (turn on ignition if necessary), then walk round vehicle (as this is a ‘tell me’ question, you don’t need to physically check the lights).
6. Tell me how you’d know if there was a problem with your anti-lock braking system.
Warning light should illuminate if there is a fault with the anti-lock braking system.
7. Tell me how you’d check the direction indicators are working. You don’t need to exit the vehicle.
Explain you’d operate the switch (turn on ignition if necessary), and then walk round vehicle (as this is a ‘tell me’ question, you don’t need to physically check the lights).
8. Tell me how you’d check the brake lights are working on this car.
Explain you’d operate the brake pedal, make use of reflections in windows or doors, or ask someone to help.
9. Tell me how you’d check the power-assisted steering is working before starting a journey.
If the steering becomes heavy, the system may not be working properly. Before starting a journey, 2 simple checks can be made.
Gentle pressure on the steering wheel, maintained while the engine is started, should result in a slight but noticeable movement as the system begins to operate. Alternatively turning the steering wheel just after moving off will give an immediate indication that the power assistance is functioning.
10. Tell me how you’d switch on the rear fog light(s) and explain when you’d use it/them. You don’t need to exit the vehicle.
Operate switch (turn on dipped headlights and ignition if necessary). Check warning light is on. Explain use.
11. Tell me how you switch your headlight from dipped to main beam and explain how you’d know the main beam is on.
Operate switch (with ignition or engine on if necessary), check with main beam warning light.
12. Open the bonnet and tell me how you’d check that the engine has sufficient oil.
Identify dipstick/oil level indicator, describe check of oil level against the minimum and maximum markers.
13. Open the bonnet and tell me how you’d check that the engine has sufficient engine coolant.
Identify high and low level markings on header tank where fitted or radiator filler cap, and describe how to top up to correct level.
14. Open the bonnet and tell me how you’d check that you have a safe level of hydraulic brake fluid.
Identify reservoir, check level against high and low markings.
“Show Me” Questions
- When it’s safe to do so, can you show me how you wash and clean the rear windscreen?
- When it’s safe to do so, can you show me how you wash and clean the front windscreen?
- When it’s safe to do so, can you show me how you’d switch on your dipped headlights?
- When it’s safe to do so, can you show me how you’d set the rear demister?
- When it’s safe to do so, can you show me how you’d operate the horn?
- When it’s safe to do so, can you show me how you’d demist the front windscreen?
- When it’s safe to do so, can you show me how you’d open and close the side window?
